Borken and Cologne police launch pilot project against illegal e-bike tuning

Police authorities in Borken and Cologne have launched a statewide pilot project to combat illegal modifications to two-wheeled vehicles. The initiative utilizes two mobile roller test benches designed to detect manipulated motor assistance and unauthorized speeds in fatbikes, pedelecs, and e-scooters directly at control sites.

Authorities noted a rising trend in illegal tuning, particularly for fatbikes and e-scooters, a trend that has spread from the Netherlands to the Borken district since early 2025. While increasing speed through physical effort is legal, manipulating electric motor assistance to exceed the 25 km/h limit poses significant traffic safety risks and can lead to legal, insurance, and liability consequences for both riders and guardians.