E-bikes in UK law - what are the requirements?

The bike experts at our cycle insurance partners Bikmo, share their thoughts on the UK law for electric bicycles.

Greenwich, near Abbey Wood Club Campsite. Member photo by Mike Halliwell

What are electric bikes?

An electric bike (or e-bike) is referred to in law as an electrically assisted pedal cycle (EAPC). They're often heavier than normal pedal cycles, but come in the same varieties – hybrid, road and folding e-bikes, or electric mountain and e-cargo bikes, including tricycles, and come with a rechargeable battery and a motor that helps you pedal. Whichever type of e-bike you choose, it must meet the same rules and regulations to legally ride on public roads or cycle paths in the UK.

For an electric bike to be legally classed as an EAPC in the UK, it must:

• have pedals that can be used to propel it
• have a maximum 'continuous rated' power output of 250 watts (W) of assistance that kicks in when you pedal (rather than the battery or motor power itself)
•  must cut off electrical assistance when it reaches 15.5mph / 25kmph
• not be ridden by anyone under the age of 14

If it meets these criteria then you can ride it on UK roads without a licence, just like a regular bike (ie on roads, cycle paths and bridle paths, but not pavements).

What if it doesn't meet the criteria?

If you have an electric bike with a 'twist and go' throttle (that can be propelled without pedalling) or is not restricted to 250W power output, this does not comply with EAPC rules and is classed as a motorcycle or moped under the Road Traffic Act. This means it would need to be DVLA registered, taxed and insured, and the rider will need a driving licence and motorcycle helmet, in order to be able to ride it on any public highway.

Some 'twist and go' e-bikes for elderly or disabled users are included in UK e-bike regulations, provided they comply with the speed restrictions and maximum power motor assistance, and have been type approved by the government.

If you’re not sure whether your e-bike is subject to the Road Traffic Act, the guide on the government website covers all e-bike regulations in Great Britain. If you’re unsure about any of the rules above in relation to your bike or in general, you can send an email with the details of your bike to support@bikmo.com who will be happy to help.

All of this applies to riding on public highways, roads, bridleways etc. There are no restrictions on riding on private land as long as there is no private access and you have the landowner's permission.

Can I ride an e-bike on Club campsites?

Electric bicycles (which do not self propel the bike more than 15.5 mph) are allowed* on Club campsites, although consideration should be shown to other guests at all times when using this equipment. Vehicle speeds should not exceed 5 mph (that is equivalent to a vehicle being in first gear or a person moving at a walking pace), and one way systems should be followed at all times. Please remember that other guests' pitches are strictly not to be encroached.

E-bikes would not be permitted on site between the hours of dusk and dawn, as determined by the site staff. Please observe any 'no ride on' areas on our campsites, such as around toilet blocks, and ensure that children are supervised at all times. Remember that the principles of road safety should be observed at all times, and guests must follow the the Club's Keeping Safe on Club Campsites guidance. Special care should be taken when cycling on and off roadways. Please ask the site staff about designated cycle routes nearby. It is recommended that all users of bicycles, scooters and skateboards wear safety helmets, and other relevant safety equipment.

 

*The Club Site Rules have been updated since the latest edition of the Sites Directory & Handbook - please refer to the website for the most up to date version.

 

Published May 2025