Rider guide

UK electric bike rules: what counts as an EAPC

Electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPCs) can be used on UK roads and cycle lanes if they meet GOV.UK rules: a motor of 250W continuous rated power or less, assistance that stops at 15.5 mph (25 km/h), and riders aged 14 or over. Privately owned electric scooters may only be used on private land with the landowner's permission, not on public roads, pavements or cycle lanes.

What this means when you shop

Before you buy any e-bike, compare the motor power and the speed at which assistance stops with the rules above. An e-bike that does not meet them is treated as a motor vehicle, with the licensing, insurance and registration that brings. Headeer product pages list the specifications supplied by the maker, so check them against these rules.

Private land

A bike or scooter that does not meet the EAPC rules can still be used on private land with the landowner's permission.

Need help? Contact us with the model you are looking at.

Source: GOV.UK electric bike rules.