E-bikes, e-scooters: what you need to know

A bike was seized, and a man was arrested following an incident in Towyn, Abergele last night (Thursday, 28 November).

Shortly after 10pm a number of electric bikes, travelling in excess of 50mph on a footpath on Foryd Road failed to stop for officers from the Roads Crime Unit.

Searches commenced which involved the NPAS (National Police Air Service) helicopter.

A 36-year-old local man was later located by officers and arrested on suspicion of driving whilst under the influence of drugs after testing positive for cannabis and cocaine, driving whilst under the influence of alcohol and other driving offences including no insurance and failing to stop. His bike was also seized.

With Christmas less than a month away, North Wales Police are urging those who are considering or have already purchased an electric bicycle or e-scooter as gifts for loved ones to ensure they understand the law and obligations for those using them.

Detective Inspector Tim Evans from North Wales Police’ Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: “Riders of electric cycles should be aware of, and courteous to everyone who uses the road, shared pathways, or other public places. 

“The police may seize MPVs when being driven/ridden carelessly or inconsiderately and is causing, or is likely to cause, alarm, distress or annoyance to members of the public.

“Collisions which result in serious injury to another person will be investigated in the same way it would if you were riding a motorcycle or driving a car, and any injured persons may wish to seek specialist road collision legal advice.

He added: “We understand that the majority of motorbike, e-bike and quadbike riders, use their vehicles in a safe and considerate manner and abide by the law. However, sadly, there are those that don’t and this poses a serious risk to not only themselves, but other road users also. 

“Our priority is to ensure that our roads and open spaces are safe for all – that is why North Wales Police will take action against anyone using these bikes or e-scooters irresponsibly.

“We will use every tool at our disposal, which includes specialist resources to crackdown on this type of crime. I would also like to encourage residents to report incidents to us so we can take appropriate action.

“If you know who is using e-bikes, MPV’s or e-scooters anti-socially or to commit crime, let us know. Report online or call North Wales Police on 101, or 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Electric Assisted Pedal Cycles or E-bikes:

Electric Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPCs) must be fitted with pedals that are capable of propelling it, have a maximum continuous power rating via the electric motor not exceeding 250 watts, and all electrical assistance must cut off when the vehicle reaches a speed of 15.5mph.

If the rider isn’t pedalling, 'twist and go' throttles are only permissible up to a speed of 6 kph (or 3.7 mph).  The bike must display the motor’s power output, or manufacturer’s name and show either the battery voltage or maximum speed. 

If in doubt remember PPS – Pedals, Power, Speed.

EAPCs can be legally ridden by anyone aged 14+. If conforming to the EAPC Regulations 1983, they are road-legal and don’t require a licence, insurance, or registration. They may be ridden on cycle paths, and anywhere else pedal cycles are allowed. 

It is a matter for a court to decide; however, the Department for Transport (DfT) view an EAPC as a Mechanically Propelled Vehicle (MPV). 

Mechanically Propelled Vehicle (MPVs):

Road Traffic Act offences will be committed where death or serious injury is caused to another person by dangerous or careless/inconsiderate driving, and driving, or being in charge of an MPV, when under influence of drink or drugs.

A rider of an MPV has a duty to stop and provide their details following a collision where personal injury is caused to a person other than the driver, damage is caused to another vehicle or property, or to an animal, other than being transported by that MPV.  The drivers name and address (and owner if different) and the identification marks of the vehicle should be provided to a person requiring them.  If for any reason the driver does not give their name and address, they must report the collision to the police.

More information can be found here: Electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPCs) in Great Britain: information sheet - GOV.UK

All other electric bikes are classed as a motorcycle or a moped. Unless used on private land (with the permission of the land-owner), such bikes must be registered with the DVLA, taxed, insured and used by a rider who holds the appropriate class of licence, in order for their use to be legal.

E-scooters:

E-scooters are motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act 1988, which means rules that apply to motor vehicle also apply to e-scooters including the need to have a licence and insurance.

E-scooters don’t have things such as number plates, signalling ability, and not always visible rear lights. Riders also don’t often have appropriate safety equipment. Other road users may be put at risk.

Privately owned e-scooters are illegal to ride in public spaces, including roads, parks and town centres. They can only be ridden on private land, with the landowner’s permission. The government is running trials of electric scooters - north Wales is not included in the trial areas.

Further information regarding the use of e-scooters is available via: E-scooters | North Wales Police