Electric Bicycles: Speed Limits
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps is her department taking to help ensure that e-bikes are not exceeding 15.5mph.
Answered by Lilian Greenwood
The Department has published information setting out the rules with regards to e-bikes.
Where e-bikes continue to receive electrical assistance above 15.5mph they are classed as motor vehicles and must be approved and registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency, taxed and insured. The rider must also wear a safety helmet and hold a driving licence.
The police have the powers to seize faster and more powerful e-bikes used on the roads where they have not been properly registered as motor vehicles. This is in accordance with Section 165A of the Road Traffic Act 1988, and on the basis that the e-bike would be being ridden uninsured.
In addition, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency’s Market Surveillance Unit (MSU) monitors the market for non-compliant or misleadingly marketed e-bikes and other vehicles. Where issues are identified, the MSU can take proportionate action in line with its statutory remit.
Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →