Road law changes could see fresh restrictions for electric bikes over serious safety fears

New road rules could be rolled out for electric bikes in the near future amid support for a recently released report that warned of safety issues.

The Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety (PACTS) has published a new briefing for ministers stating that high-powered electric bikes could pose serious dangers.

It specifically cites issues around illegal electric bikes, which exceed the Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) definition, which is causing "immediate and escalating risks" to all road users.

Electric bikes are restricted to a motor assistance of up to 15.5mph, as well as a maximum rated power of 250 watts.

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To operate the vehicles, riders must be at least 14 years old, while they must pedal to activate motor assist at speeds above 3.7mph unless they are type-approved.

However, a growing number of illegal vehicles have been seen on the road across the UK in recent years, which ignore EAPC criteria.

The PACTS report suggested that illegal bikes are often used by gig economy delivery riders, especially in urban areas, where road risks could be escalated.

Online marketplaces also pose issues, with around 20 per cent of all e-bikes potentially being kit-built, although the number of vehicles with illegal speeds is unknown.

It warned that collisions involving non-EAPC electric bikes may make it difficult to identify the rider, especially as they are unlikely to be insured.

Fire risks also pose a significant risk to owners and others, with several high-profile incidents taking place in recent years.

Data from the London Fire Brigade shows that e-bikes were responsible for more than 170 fires attended by firefighters across the capital last year.

This represents a concerning 20 per cent increase compared to the previous year, with the police warning of lithium-ion batteries posing a serious risk.

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PACTS highlighted that the Government is currently consulting on proposed reforms to the UK's product regulation market surveillance to crack down on illegal vehicles.

Tony Campbell, chief executive of the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA), hinted that the Government could launch further consultations on the future regulation of micromobility.

He said: "We welcome the Government's commitment to consult. Non-compliant, illegal and often high-powered e-bikes are distorting the market and undercutting reputable manufacturers and retailers who invest in safety and compliance.

"We need stronger marketplace accountability, targeted enforcement and policy that removes gig economy incentives to choose unsafe, non-compliant alternatives."

He noted that the consultation would be a "real chance to set clear rules" that protect riders, pedestrians and businesses selling legal products.

The MCIA, as well as the Bicycle Association, will continue to work with the Department for Transport to inform future policy and develop enforcement measures.

Similarly, the PACTS report called for a coordinated cross-Government response with "visible enforcement and clear national direction".

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