Are Throttled Electric Bikes Legal in the UK?

If you’re a thrill-seeker looking to buy an electric bike, you might have stumbled upon throttled e-bikes. Electric throttle bikes integrate a throttle and electric motor to assist riders when pedalling, making it easier to navigate the UK’s bustling streets and picturesque country . 

However, you should be aware that there are certain rules and regulations you’ll have to follow to stay on the right side of the law. Keep reading as we delve into whether electric bikes are legal in the UK, specifically throttle bicycles, and answer common questions like ‘do you need a licence for an electric bike.’

UK’s Electric Bike Legality Status

As for the question of whether electric bikes are legal in the UK; you’re allowed to ride an e-bike in the UK if you're 14 years old or older, provided it adheres to certain criteria. Such electric bicycles are categorised as 'electrically assisted pedal cycles' (EAPCs). Riding one doesn't require a licence, and they don't need registration, tax, or insurance. A key feature of an EAPC is that it should have functional pedals for propulsion.

The bike should display one of the following:

• The motor's power output
• The motor manufacturer's name

Additionally, it must show either:

• The battery voltage
• The bike's maximum speed

The electric motor specifications include:

• A maximum power output limit of 250 watts
• The inability to power the bike beyond 15.5mph

EAPCs can also come in forms other than two-wheelers, such as tricycles.

Types of E-Bikes and Applied Rules

In the UK, electric bikes fall into three categories:

• Pedal-assisted
• Throttle-assisted
• Combined pedal and throttle-assisted

Pedal-assisted e-bikes are road-legal and don’t require a licencme, insurance, or registration. However, they must be ridden according to specific standards, such as with a 250W motor and a maximum speed of 15.5 mph.

In contrast, throttle-assisted electric bikes are treated as electric mopeds or motorcycles based on their speed and power output. Using them on roads entails getting a licence, insurance, and registration. Additionally, riders must wear helmets and abide by the same regulations that apply to motor vehicle operators.

Where Can You Ride?

If your bike falls in the EAPC criteria, it will be regarded as a standard pedal bike. Consequently, it's permissible to ride it on cycle paths and any other locations where pedal bikes are allowed. On the other hand, any electric bike that doesn't conform to the EAPC regulations falls under the category of a motorcycle or moped. Such bikes require a licence, registration, and taxation. You must possess a driving licence and wear a crash helmet for safety to ride these. 

Addressing the ‘Throttle Dilemma’

The alignment of UK law with EU regulations has significantly impacted the legality of 'twist and go' throttles on electric bikes. Effective from January 1, 2016, in the UK, the only permissible throttles under the EAPC rules are those that provide assistance when the rider isn't pedalling. However, the throttle assist can only go up to a speed of 6 km/h (about 3.7 mph).

Once the rider exceeds 6 km/h by coasting without pedalling, the throttle must automatically disengage. Still, if the cyclist is pedalling, the throttle can still provide assistance up to the overall speed limit of 15.5 mph for EAPCs.

For those who purchased an e-bike with a full-speed throttle prior to January 1, 2016, there's no cause for concern. These bikes are still recognized as EAPCs and are exempt from the need for registration or tax. Technically, you could still acquire a 'twist and go' e-bike without facing penalties, provided it was manufactured or imported before the cut-off date of January 1, 2016.

Penalties/Fines for Using Throttle E-Bikes?

An e-bike with independent power is regarded as a motor vehicle under UK law, subject to the same legal requirements as other motor vehicles. This includes the necessity for an MOT, licensing, tax, and insurance. Additionally, such e-bikes must have number plates, signals, and rear lights.

Riding an electric bike on the road using the throttle without insurance can lead to a fine of £300 and 6 penalty points while operating it without a licence could incur a fine of £100 and between 3 to 6 penalty points. There are also penalties for lacking number plates, signals, or rear lights, although these specifics are not detailed. And for those wondering whether they can ride an electric bike if banned from driving, the answer is yes. But the bike must comply strictly with the rules otherwise you could be prosecuted for multiple offences with big fines, extended disqualification and even prison. 

Per Section 59 of the Police Reform Act, if a police officer believes you're riding in a manner that causes alarm or distress to others, they can issue a warning. In certain situations, they also have the authority to confiscate your e-bike.

Are E-Movement Electric Bikes Legal in the UK?

Yes, our bikes are legal in the UK. Here at E-movement, we offer a wide range of throttle electric bikes with multiple pedal-assist levels, responsive fat tyres, torque sensors, and much more. And you can enable or disable the throttle at your will in them as it is disconnectable. 

Endnote

Electric bikes in the UK are more than just a trend; they represent a sustainable, economical, and health-conscious means of transportation that is here to stay. As legislation and guidelines evolve, it's crucial for both seasoned e-bicycle riders and newcomers to stay updated on these changes. Knowing the ins and outs of UK electric bike regulations is key to ensuring a safe and comfortable riding experience, regardless of your familiarity with these vehicles.

Common FAQs

1. Is it illegal to ride an electric bike on the road in the UK?

No, it's not illegal to ride an electric bike on the road in the UK, as long as it complies with the EAPC (Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles) regulations. EAPCs can be ridden on roads, bike lanes, and other areas where pedal bikes are allowed.

2. Is it illegal to have a throttle on an e-bike in the UK?

E-bikes with a throttle can be legal in the UK, but they are subject to different rules. If the e-bicycle can be powered by the throttle alone without pedalling, it's classified similarly to a moped or motorcycle. You will require a licence, a helmet, registration, and insurance for an electric bike. Throttle-assisted e-bikes that conform to EAPC regulations are allowed.

3. What is the legal speed limit for electric bikes in the UK?

The legal speed limit for electric bikes that meet the EAPC regulations in the UK is 15.5 mph (25 km/h). Beyond this speed, the motor must automatically cut off.

4. Are 500w e-bikes legal in the UK?

Electric bikes with a power output of 500 watts do not meet the EAPC regulations in the UK. The legal limit for EAPCs is a maximum power output of 250 watts. For this reason, 500W e-bikes are classified similarly to mopeds or motorcycles and require registration, a licence, insurance. The rider must also wear a helmet.

5. Do I need a specific type of licence to ride an EAPC in the UK?

No, you don't need a specific licence to ride an Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) in the UK. If the e-bike adheres to EAPC standards, including a maximum power output of 250 watts and a top speed of 15.5 mph, it's classified like a regular bike, so no driving licence, registration, tax, or insurance is required. However, for more powerful electric bikes, standard motor vehicle licensing rules apply.