When is an ebike not an ebike? When it has a powerful illegal engine. Get this menace off our roads | Peter Walker
The article explains the difference between legal e‑bikes and illegal electric motorbikes, highlights the rise of abandoned share bikes in London, and argues that the real threat to road safety comes from illegal, throttle‑powered bikes rather than shared e‑bikes. It calls for clearer enforcement a…
In the UK, the debate over cycling often centres on London’s inner boroughs, where the density of bikes, politicians and journalists is highest. Yet the discussion is usually limited to shared‑bike services such as Lime and Forest, which have become a familiar sight on pavements and in traffic. A Guardian investigation this year found that London councils seized 3,393 illegally parked or abandoned e‑bikes – a 23 % increase over the entire previous year. The numbers are striking, but they do not tell the whole story.
What makes a bike an e‑bike?
Under UK law, a vehicle is classified as an e‑bike only if it meets two strict criteria: it must have a maximum powered speed of 15.5 mph, and the motor can only engage when the rider pedals. If a device can be accelerated by a throttle or can exceed that speed, it is no longer an e‑bike but an illegal electric motorbike. Many privately owned machines that look like bicycles actually fall into this latter category. They often have heavier frames, larger batteries and a throttle that allows speeds well above 15.5 mph.
Because the distinction is technical, most people are unaware of it. A casual observer might see a pedal‑powered machine that looks like a bike and assume it is legal, when in fact it is not. This confusion fuels the media’s alarm about e‑bikes, but the real safety concerns are tied to the illegal variants.
Share‑bike chaos in London
Share‑bike operators have been criticised for their impact on pedestrian safety and urban aesthetics. In central London, it is common to see a Lime rider dart through a red light or weave between pedestrians. While this behaviour is illegal, it is not unique to e‑bikes; many motorised vehicles violate traffic rules. Statistics show that drivers in 20 mph zones often speed, and the same can be said for cyclists who break the law. However, the consequences differ dramatically. The kinetic energy of a motorised bike moving at 30 mph is far greater than that of a cyclist, making collisions more likely to result in serious injury.
Despite these risks, share‑bikes are generally considered a positive development. They provide an affordable, low‑effort option for people who lack a personal bike or a safe place to store one. The occasional nuisance of a rider ignoring traffic lights is outweighed by the benefits of increased cycling participation.
The real danger: illegal electric motorbikes
Illegal electric motorbikes are a different beast. They are often heavier, resemble motorbikes and can reach speeds of 30 mph or more without pedalling. Riders can easily overtake a cyclist, and the lack of a throttle‑limit means they can accelerate rapidly. Many of these bikes are built with sub‑standard batteries that pose fire risks. Some rail companies are even considering bans on all e‑bikes because of these safety concerns.
Because the problem is rooted in law enforcement, it also becomes a political issue. The food‑delivery sector, which relies heavily on riders using illegal bikes, could face stricter regulation. The conflation of share‑bike issues with illegal motorbike problems has led to calls for blanket restrictions on all e‑bikes, which would unfairly penalise legitimate users.
What’s next?
Clearer enforcement is needed to distinguish between legal e‑bikes and illegal electric motorbikes. Policymakers must focus on the illegal variants while preserving the benefits of shared cycling. Public education about the legal definitions can help reduce confusion and improve road safety for all users.
In short, the real threat on UK roads is not the share‑bike operators but the illegal, throttle‑powered electric motorbikes that break the law and endanger pedestrians. Addressing this issue requires targeted regulation and public awareness, not blanket bans on e‑bikes.
Why it matters
Understanding the legal distinction between e‑bikes and illegal electric motorbikes is crucial for safe road use and effective policy. Mislabeling the problem can lead to unfair restrictions that harm legitimate cyclists.
Key points
- Legal e‑bikes must not exceed 15.5 mph and only assist when pedalling
- Share‑bikes are generally beneficial but can cause minor safety issues
- Illegal electric motorbikes can reach 30 mph or more and pose serious risks
- The real danger comes from illegal motorised bikes, not shared e‑bikes
- Clear enforcement and public education are needed to protect all road users
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an e‑bike and an illegal electric motorbike?
An e‑bike is limited to 15.5 mph and only assists when pedalling, while an illegal electric motorbike can be accelerated by a throttle and exceed that speed.
Are shared e‑bikes safe?
Yes, shared e‑bikes are generally safe and promote cycling, though occasional rule violations can occur.
What should authorities do about illegal electric motorbikes?
They should enforce existing laws, target illegal vehicles, and educate the public on legal definitions.
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