20/05/2026
🚴 E-BIKES – KNOW THE LAW 🚴
Many riders may not realise that some bikes being used on our roads and public spaces are illegal under UK law.
To be classed as a legal Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC), an e-bike MUST meet the following requirements:
✅ Electric assistance must cut out at 15.5mph (25kph)
✅ The motor must not exceed 250 watts continuous power
✅ The rider must be pedalling for the motor to provide assistance
✅ Riders must be aged 14 or over
These regulations are in place to protect all road users and pedestrians.
⚠️ YOUR E-BIKE MAY BE ILLEGAL IF:
❌ It has a throttle capable of propelling the bike above 3.7mph without pedalling
❌ It can exceed 15.5mph using motor power alone
❌ The motor continues to assist when the rider is not pedalling
If an e-bike does not comply with EAPC regulations, it is classed in law as a moped or motorcycle.
This means riders may legally require:
• A valid driving licence with the correct entitlement
• Insurance
• An approved helmet
• Vehicle registration and road legality compliance
🚔 Riders using illegal e-bikes or off-road bikes risk:
• The bike being seized
• Penalty points on their driving licence (or any future one!)
• Driving disqualification
👨👩👧 PARENTS / GUARDIANS
If you purchase or allow the unlawful use of an e-bike by a child or young person, you could potentially be charged with “causing or permitting” various road traffic offences.
For example, knowingly allowing a child to ride an illegal e-bike on roads, parks or other public spaces may result in action being taken against you.
Parents and guardians have a responsibility to ensure bikes are legal and used appropriately.
This could result in fines and penalty points on YOUR driving licence!
Please help us keep our communities safe by ensuring e-bikes are legal, safe and used responsibly.
Anyone with information or concerns about criminality should contact Police Scotland on 101 or call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
