The laws surrounding using an ebike aren’t that much different from those for normal pedal cycles. However there are some specific rules that apply to electrically assisted pedal cycles:
- Maximum power of the motor: 250 watts
- Maximum assisted speed: 15.5 mph (25 km/h)
- Must be pedal-assist (assistance must stop once 15.5 mph speed is achieved)
- Throttle (twist and go) allowed only up to 3.7mph
- Minimum Age Requirement: 14 and over
- Driving License: not required
- Insurance: not required
- MOT: do not need an MOT
- Registration: does not need to be registered
- Road Tax: does not need to be taxed
- Where can an ebike be used: an ebike can be used in the same places as conventional cycles, such as cycle paths
- Helmets: not mandatory but recommended
- The ebike must display either the battery’s voltage or the maximum speed of the e-bike via a sticker or plate
- An ebike can have more than two-wheels, for example a tricycle
Read on for more detailed information regarding ebike law in the UK