Devon and Cornwall Police seize illegal e-bike

Police in Devon and Cornwall have seized an illegal e-bike and issued warnings to the public regarding the legal requirements for electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPC). Officers from the Ashburton and Chudleigh Policing Team seized a vehicle in Bovey Tracey after discovering it did not meet road-legal standards.

Authorities clarified that the presence of pedals does not automatically classify a machine as a bicycle. To be treated as a legal EAPC in Great Britain, a vehicle must have a motor with a maximum continuous rated power output of 250 watts. Additionally, electrical assistance must only function while the rider is pedalling and must cease once the bike reaches 15.5 mph (25 km/h).

If a machine exceeds these limits or can be ridden solely using motor power, it may be classified as a motor vehicle. This classification requires the rider to possess a valid driving licence, insurance, and vehicle registration, as well as appropriate helmet use. Police warned that modified e-bikes capable of higher speeds could lead to seizures, fines, penalty points, or prosecution. Buyers are urged to verify technical specifications rather than relying on seller claims.