Has a friend or family member put an e-bike on their Christmas list?

Information from Derbyshire Police

Whilst they might seem a convenient way to get about, you also need to ride them within the law to prevent your Christmas present getting seized!

As a starting point, all riders of e-bikes must be over 14-years-old. 

Make sure you’re aware of this technical information and law to stay on the nice list this Christmas: electric bikes are classified as electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPCs). An EAPC must have pedals that can be used to propel it.

To qualify as an EAPC it must also show either the power output or the manufacturer of the motor, and it must also show either the battery’s voltage or the maximum speed of the bike. 

The electric motor of an EAPC must have a maximum power of 250 watts and should not be able to propel the bike if it’s travelling over 15.5mph. 

EAPCs can have more than two wheels, for example a tricycle.

If you meet the EAPC requirements, you are welcome to use the e-bike in all places that you can use a normal bike.

If your electric bike does not meet the EAPC rules, it’s classed as a motor vehicle. This means it must be registered and taxed, plus you need a driving license to ride it and must wear a crash helmet.

Electric motorbikes are also subject to the same laws, and you are required to have a license, tax, insurance and helmet to ride these on the road.

Whether your preferred mode of transport is e-bike, car or sleigh this Christmas, please make sure you’re travelling considerately and legally.

For further information please visit Electric bikes: licensing, tax and insurance - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)