From The Independent · · 1m 10s
Burnham signals tougher e-bike rules after safety concerns
The prime minister says the government is considering stricter controls on e-bike sales and conversion kits that let riders exceed legal speed and power limits.
In brief
The prime minister says the government is considering stricter controls on e-bike sales and conversion kits that let riders exceed legal speed and power limits. Andy Burnham announced the government is considering tougher regulations on e-bikes and conversion kits after concerns about illegally modified bikes…
Burnham backs tougher e-bike controls
During Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday, Andy Burnham said the government is considering tougher regulations for the sale of non-compliant e-bikes and conversion kits across the UK.
“We are considering tougher regulations for the sale of non-compliant e-bikes and conversion kits across the UK.”
Legal e-bikes have strict limits
Under UK rules, e-bikes must comply with safety standards: motors must only assist while pedalling, disengage at fifteen point five miles per hour, and possess a maximum power limit of two hundred fifty watts.
Conversion kits bypass legal limits
E-bike conversion kits sold online enable riders to fit motor and battery systems that exceed legal power or speed limits, creating safety concerns for pedestrians and vulnerable people.
“Online marketplaces are selling unsafe e-bikes and conversion kits that take pedal cycles beyond the legal limits, leaving pedestrians, families, vulnerable people worried for their safety going about their daily lives.”
Government launches e-bike parking consultation
Last week the government launched a new consultation on e-bike parking, promising to end the Wild West of current rules with clear rules for operators, riders and councils.
The takeaway
Andy Burnham announced the government is considering tougher regulations on e-bikes and conversion kits after concerns about illegally modified bikes travelling at dangerous speeds.
