eBikes are growingly increasingly popular and it’s not difficult to see why. eBikes are quick, cost-effective, and great for the planet. As more people move towards electric, many questions get asked about them. What are eBikes? Are they legal? Where can you ride one?
In this blog, we’ll be answering these questions and providing you with a breakdown of everything you need to know about eBike usage in the UK. Let’s dive in.
What is an eBike?
Electric bikes, or eBikes (or even e-bikes), refer to bicycles that are equipped with an integrated, onboard motor to help with pedalling. In translation, this means that when you pedal, the battery provides additional power to propel you along. The result: you can ride further and faster for longer with less physical exertion.
The great thing about them is that their batteries are very well-optimised. Some eBikes even have a range of 50-55 miles while only requiring 4-6 hours of charging time. As a result, they’re excellent for commuting but great for many different riding scenarios.
Are eBikes legal?
eBikes are categorised as Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPCs). eBikes are completely road legal provided that they meet the EAPC rules established by the DVLA. Most notably, an EAPC must have pedals that can be used to propel it, it must have a maximum power output of 250W, and the electric motor should not be able to propel the bike when it’s travelling more than 15.5mph.
Riders don’t need a licence to ride an eBike. Nor does the eBike have to be registered, taxed, or insured. However, there is an age restriction. Anybody under the age of 14 cannot legally ride an eBike.
Where can you ride them?
Put simply, if an eBike meets the EAPC requirements, it’s technically classed as a normal pedal bike. This means that you can ride one on cycle paths and anywhere else pedal bikes are allowed. Therefore, they’re great for use anywhere!
As the eBike market grows evermore expansive, there are now eBike model options for a range of riding scenarios. For commuting, slim-fit, foldable eBikes are available. For the explorers looking for something light and versatile, eBikes built for endurance are a good fit. If you’re thinking of finally going electric, be sure to pick something that works best for you.
In summary, eBikes are simply classified as bicycles that have onboard motors to assist with pedalling and propel riders along. An eBike is completely legal provided that they have pedals to propel it, a maximum power output of 250W, and that it doesn’t electrically assist when travelling at over 15.5mph.
If they comply with these standards, you can ride one wherever you can ride a standard pedal bike. A licence isn’t needed, nor does it have to be registered, taxed or insured. However, you do need to be 14 or over to ride one.
