As e-bikes continue to rise in popularity, staying informed about the laws that govern their use is crucial.
With cities expanding their cycle infrastructure, understanding the regulations is important to keep e-bikes safe for riders and other road users alike.
The basics of electric bike regulations
In the UK, e-bikes are legally considered “electrically assisted pedal cycles” (EAPCs) if they meet certain conditions:
- The rider must be at least 14 years old.
- The bike’s electric motor must not provide power over 15.5 mph.
- The motor must not exceed 250 watts.
If an e-bike meets these standards, it can be used on roads and cycle lanes without requiring a license, insurance, or vehicle registration. However, e-bikes that exceed these limits are considered mopeds or motorcycles and require adherence to much stricter regulations.
The role of cycle parking in e-bike uptake
One of the key factors enabling more people to switch to e-bikes is secure and convenient cycle parking. Cities are increasingly looking towards innovative solutions to provide more cycle-friendly spaces, and having accessible cycle parking in place plays a significant role in this transformation. Our Bikehangars and Mobility Corrals (ideal for dockless bikes like Lime) help ensure that e-bikes are kept safe from theft and damage. This security encourages more people to adopt e-bikes for daily commutes and short trips.
Mobility Corrals
Dockless hire bikes are convenient for users, but inconsiderate parking often causes hazards for pedestrians, especially those with disabilities or impaired vision. Mobility Corrals in the carriageway provide a clear, organised space for bikes, keeping them upright and away from pavements. When marked as designated parking spaces within the dockless operator’s app, the Mobility Corral greatly reduces the negative effects of dockless bikes.
The benefits of e-bikes and how cycle parking supports them
- Reduced carbon footprint: E-bikes provide a greener alternative to cars for short trips and commutes, helping cities reduce congestion and emissions.
- Health and well-being: Cycling offers a range of health benefits, and with electric assistance, e-bikes make cycling accessible to a wider range of people who otherwise would not be able to cycle.
- Cost-effective: Compared to car ownership, using an e-bike is a far cheaper mode of transport, with significantly lower maintenance and running costs.
With accessible infrastructure, such as our Bikehangars and Mobility Corrals, more people are empowered to switch to e-bikes, supporting city-wide sustainability goals and easing the transition to active travel.
Can you insure an e-bike under cycle insurance?
Cycle insurance is valid on e-bikes as long as they are classed as an electrically assisted pedal cycle (EAPC). For an electric bike to be legal in the UK, it must
- Come with a pedal-assist motor
- Have a maximum power output of 250 watts
- The electrical assistance must cut off when it reaches 15.5mph / 25kmph
- It cannot be ridden by anyone under the age of 14
Any e-bike that falls outside of these regulations will not be valid for cycle insurance. If you’re not sure whether your e-bike is subject to the Road Traffic Act, this guide on the government website covers all e-bike regulations in Great Britain.
Insure your cycle with Bikmo
It’s worth checking your home or dedicated cycle insurance policy, as it may not provide the cover you require for e-bike or regular bicycles, such as:
- Maximum value – the maximum insured bike value can be as low as £500
- Away from home – there’s often an ‘abandonment clause’ that classes bikes as ‘abandoned’ after only a few hours cycling away from home
- Personal accident cover – is usually not included
- Excess costs – home insurance excesses can mean it’s not worth claiming for your losses
- Battery cover – accidental damage cover for your battery is usually not covered
Cyclehoop members benefit from a 10%* discount on Bikmo’s award-winning insurance policies, as well as a 25%* saving on e-bike premiums, and a 50%* saving when insuring multiple bikes, with the discount applying to the lowest value bike(s). Bikmo believes you shouldn’t have to stress about unexpected mishaps.
Bikmo has cover options for:
- Theft, accidental damage and vandalism
- Accidental injuries and medical expenses
- E-bike battery accidental damage
Enjoy every ride knowing you’re protected!
Summary
Electric bikes are set to play a pivotal role in sustainable urban transport, but the key to their success lies in integrating them within existing city infrastructure. We provide authorities with safe, convenient parking solutions designed to meet the growing demand for e-bikes while actively contributing to cleaner, more sustainable streets. Discover how our innovative products can transform your city’s cycling infrastructure and enhance urban mobility. Contact us today to learn more!
For more information on e-bike laws in the UK, refer to Cycling UK’s Guide.