Operation targets illegal e-bikes and e-scooters in Denbighshire

North Wales Police’s Roads Crime Unit, supported by officers from Local Policing Services and the Special Constabulary, conducted a day of concentrated patrols in Rhyl, Prestatyn and Towyn on Saturday 6 June as part of the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) National Day of Action.

The operation focused on tackling the illegal use of electrically assisted pedal cycles (e-bikes) and e-scooters, particularly those being used without insurance or in a manner that brings them outside the scope of lawful use on public roads.

During the day of action, officers engaged with road users, provided education, and took enforcement action where necessary. As a result, 15 e-bikes and e-scooters were seized under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, with riders reported and summoned to court.

Keeping roads safe

Uninsured e-bikes and e-scooters present a growing risk to the public. Unlike properly insured motor vehicles, riders of illegally used or modified cycles often have no insurance in place—leaving victims without straightforward routes to compensation in the event of a collision.

Roads Crime officers have seen increasing incidents where pedestrians and motorists have been struck by such vehicles. These collisions can result in serious injury, financial loss, and long-term consequences for victims.

Understanding the law

While certain electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPCs) can be used legally, they must meet strict requirements, including limits on power output and the need to be pedal assisted. To mee the law it must:

• Have pedals that can be used to move the bike
• Have a motor with a maximum continuous power of 250 watts
• Only provide electric assistance up to 15.5mph (25km/h)

If an e-bike exceeds these rules, for example, if it can be powered without pedalling, has a more powerful motor, or exceeds the top speed allowed, it is classed as a motor vehicle and can be seized by police.

E-scooters have also become increasingly visible on roads and pavements, but there is still significant confusion about the law.

Privately owned e-scooters cannot be legally used on public roads, pavements or cycle paths. They are only permitted on private land with the landowner’s consent.

The only e-scooters that can be used legally in public are part of a government-approved rental trials, which operate in specific areas (not in North Wales).

EAPCs must not be used by children—riders must be at least 14 years old. 

Vehicles that do not meet these criteria are classed as motor vehicles and must comply with full road traffic legislation, including:

• Insurance
• Vehicle registration
• Appropriate driving licence
• Use of protective equipment where required

Ongoing enforcement

North Wales Police remain committed to tackling illegal vehicle use and keeping communities safe. Officers will continue to carry out targeted operations to address the misuse of e-bikes and e-scooters, alongside partner agencies.

Sergeant Alun Jones of the Roads Crime Unit said: "This operation highlights our commitment to reducing risk on our roads and protecting the public. While many people use e-bikes legally and responsibly, those who choose to ignore the law put themselves and others in danger. We will continue to take robust action against uninsured and illegally used vehicles."

North Wales Police is urging anyone using or considering buying an e-scooter or e-bike to check the law before using it. By understanding the rules and using legal, approved vehicles, everyone can help keep North Wales’s roads and public spaces safe.

Further information is available here:

Riding an electric scooter: the rules - GOV.UK

Riding an electric bike: the rules - GOV.UK

Members of the public are encouraged to report concerns about illegal e-bike or e-scooter use to North Wales Police via the non-emergency 101 service, or online via Contact us | North Wales Police

Further information about the MIB is available via Make a claim or check and learn about insurance | Making roads safer | MIB