Illegal e-bikes seized in Torquay

Police operation to educate riders

Police in South Devon have carried out an operation to target illegal e-bike and e-scooter use across communities.

Two illegal scooters have been seized in Torquay. The local Torquay Neighbourhood Police Team worked alongside a South Devon Neighbourhood Support Team to speak to riders to educate them about the relevant laws.  

Devon & Cornwall Police is responding to public concern and is sending out the message that risky behaviour by riders of these two wheelers will not be tolerated - riders must ensure they know the correct legislation. Illegal e-bikes and scooters can be seized and will be sent for crushing.

Sergeant Matt Gill explained: “Certain types of modified e-bikes are not legal for use on public roads or pavements and they pose a serious risk to pedestrians and other road users, as well as the rider.

“Some bikes have been modified to exceed speed limits and we are urging users to comply with the law and act responsibly when choosing their transport.

“We know that the public have concerns about e-scooters and e-bikes and want us to tackle this problem. Local police teams plan to arrange further operations of this type in the future.”

Sgt Gill added: “Parents are often involved in the purchase of e-bikes or e-scooters as gifts and may not understand the correct legislation around their use. It is against the law to use a privately owned electric scooter on public land. If you use an electric scooter illegally you could face a fine, get penalty points on your licence and the scooter could be impounded

“If your electric bike does not meet the Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) rules then it’s classed as a motorcycle or moped.”

Your bike is not an EAPC if it:

• can be propelled at more than 15.5 miles per hour (mph) by the motor
• has a continuous rated power output higher than 250 watts
• does not have pedals that can propel it
• If your electric bike is not an EAPC it must be registered and taxed.

You need to:

• have a valid driving licence
• wear a motorcycle helmet that meets British safety standards
• insure your vehicle
• Offenders who flout the rules face being prosecuted and issued with penalty points or a fine and may receive a criminal conviction.