Electric bicycles (e-bikes) have transformed modern travel. Whether used for commuting, deliveries, or leisurely rides, they offer a low-cost, low-emission alternative to cars and public transport. Their ability to flatten hills, ease long journeys, and help riders of all abilities enjoy cycling has made them a welcome addition to city streets and rural roads alike.
But with this rapid rise in popularity comes a responsibility- to ensure that e-bike use remains safe, sustainable, and well-regulated. Unfortunately, a growing number of unregulated or modified e-bikes are creating risks that could jeopardise both rider safety and public confidence in micromobility.
What Are Unregulated E-Bikes?
Not all e-bikes are created equal. While most models on sale in the UK adhere to clear legal standards (such as speed limits, power outputs, and battery regulations), a growing number do not.
Unregulated e-bikes may include:
- Homemade or modified bikes that exceed legal speed or power limits.
- Models powered by uncertified lithium-ion batteries, often purchased from overseas or via online marketplaces.
- Conversion kits that turn regular bicycles into e-bikes, sometimes without the safety systems or testing found in factory-built equivalents.
Some of these bikes can reach speeds of 40–60 mph yet under current UK law, they’re often still classified as bicycles. That means they can legally use cycle lanes and shared spaces, despite behaving more like mopeds.
Why Safety Matters
It’s important not to let a few bad apples spoil what is otherwise a brilliant innovation. But the risks associated with unregulated e-bikes shouldn’t be ignored:
Battery Fires and Poor-Quality Components
Poorly made or modified batteries, particularly those lacking proper thermal controls or certification, can overheat and catch fire, sometimes with devastating consequences. These incidents are thankfully rare but are on the rise in urban areas, especially where batteries are charged overnight in shared buildings.
Risks for Delivery Riders
E-bikes offer a vital tool for many gig economy workers, especially delivery riders. However, pressure to meet tight deadlines and maximise earnings can lead some to use unregulated or overly powerful bikes. Without proper training, legal protections, or safety gear, these workers can be left vulnerable, both on the road and at home, where charging practices may not be well understood.
Online Marketplaces and Lack of Accountability
Many unregulated products, bikes, batteries, and conversion kits are widely available online, with little safety information and limited seller accountability. Buyers may not realise what they’re purchasing is illegal or unsafe, especially when product descriptions are vague or misleading.
Consequences of Confusion
Unfortunately, the risks posed by a minority of unregulated bikes have led some landlords, insurers, and public transport operators to impose blanket restrictions on all e-bikes, even those that meet the law. This is especially concerning for disabled riders who depend on legal e-bikes and adapted cycles for independence and mobility.
What Needs to Change
There’s a clear opportunity to keep e-bike growth positive, inclusive, and safe. Here’s how:
- Clarify classification laws so that users, sellers, and enforcers all understand what is and isn’t legal.
- Mandate safety standards for all imported batteries and chargers, including proper certification.
- Hold online marketplaces accountable for listing unsafe or illegal products.
- Support gig workers with better protections, access to compliant equipment, and safe charging spaces.
- Educate riders, landlords, and the public on the difference between compliant e-bikes and illegal or unsafe alternatives.
Looking Ahead
E-bikes are here to stay and that’s a good thing. They can help reduce emissions, ease congestion, improve public health, and make cycling more accessible for people of all ages and abilities. But for e-bikes to realise their full potential, we must tackle the issue of unregulated models now.
With smarter regulation, better enforcement, and stronger public awareness, we can protect the future of micromobility ensuring that e-bikes remain a safe, sustainable, and empowering way to travel for everyone.
