Legal Notice: E-Bike and E-Scooter Use in the UK

Thank you for choosing Ebike Station. Before you start enjoying your new e-bike or e-scooter, it’s important to understand the legal requirements that apply in the United Kingdom. These regulations are designed to keep riders and pedestrians safe, and staying informed will help you enjoy your vehicle with confidence.

 

E-Bikes (Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles – EAPCs)

In the UK, an e-bike is legally classified as an Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) only if it meets certain criteria. The bike must have working pedals, the motor must not exceed 250 watts of power, and electric assistance must cut out once the bike reaches 15.5 mph (25 km/h). If your e-bike includes a throttle, it should not provide power without pedalling above walking speed, which is 3.7 mph (6 km/h). Riders must be at least 14 years old, but no licence, tax, or insurance is required to operate an EAPC.

EAPCs can be ridden on public roads, cycle paths, and other areas where standard bicycles are permitted. However, they cannot be used on pavements or other pedestrian-only spaces. To comply with UK regulations, your e-bike must clearly display the manufacturer’s name and the motor’s power output, or have a label confirming that it meets EAPC standards.

 

E-Scooters

E-scooter laws in the UK work differently from e-bikes. Privately owned e-scooters are currently not allowed on public roads, pavements, cycle lanes, or pedestrian areas. They may only be used on private land with the landowner’s permission. The UK government is running ongoing rental e-scooter trials in select locations, and these hired scooters are the only type permitted for public use. To ride a rental e-scooter, you must be at least 16 years old and hold a provisional or full driving licence. Rental scooters are insured by the operator, and local rules will determine where they can be used—typically roads and cycle lanes.

Whether riding an e-bike or e-scooter, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended even though it is not a legal requirement. Riders should also follow local speed limits and general safety guidelines to ensure a responsible riding experience.

 

Penalties and Compliance

Using a privately owned e-scooter in prohibited areas, or riding an e-bike that does not meet EAPC regulations, can lead to penalties. These may include fixed penalty notices, fines for using an uninsured or unlicensed vehicle, and even penalty points on your driving licence. Staying compliant with the law helps protect both you and other road users.

 

Looking Ahead

The UK government is actively reviewing legislation surrounding e-scooters and other personal electric transport devices. As these laws evolve, we recommend keeping up to date with any changes that may affect how and where you can ride.

At Ebike Station, we want your riding experience to be safe, enjoyable, and fully compliant with UK law. If you have any questions or need guidance, our team is always here to help.

Disclaimer: This notice is provided for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Regulations may vary by region, and it is your responsibility to ensure that you comply with all applicable laws.

For the official UK government guidance on electric bike rules, please refer to: https://www.gov.uk/electric-bike-rules