Electric bikes, also known as e-bikes, have seen a significant increase in illegal modifications in the UK. Figures from 27 police forces to PA News Agency show a steep rise in e-bikes that have been illegally modified beyond the 15.5mph speed limit, a limit required under UK law. Such modifications turn these vehicles into motorcycles, and under the law, they should not be driven without insurance or a licence on the roads. However, they are still frequently utilised by food delivery drivers who seek faster vehicles to expedite deliveries.
Most illegal e-bikes seized in the City of London by the Cycle Response Unit were used by food delivery drivers. Deliveroo stated that it would not work with any riders caught using illegally modified e-bikes. While illegal e-bikes are not illegal in themselves, they are classified as motorcycles under the law, and riders must ensure they adopt the appropriate safety measures and rules for motorcycles on the road.
The EAPC (electrically assisted pedal cycles) are defined by the law and treated the same way as bicycles, hence they require no insurance or licence. Such e-bikes are limited to 250 watts of power and 15.5mph speed. However, modification kits are available for purchase online, which enables regular bicycles to reach speeds as fast as 60mph. These kits are dangerous, as batteries come from unreliable sources, and could cause harm.
City of London Police recorded 295 seizures, the highest number among any of the police forces that provided figures. Although more modifications and possibly more seizures take place in other areas, this shows how much this is becoming a problem. Other forces that have experienced significant year-on-year increases include Police Scotland, South Wales Police, Northumbria Police, Derbyshire Police, and Wiltshire Police. Such modifications are dangerous and could cause accidents on the road, so manufacturers must develop speed-regulating technology to limit modifications, thus ensuring a safer environment on the roads for all
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