This is a trade facing website. Visit the ACT's consumer site thecyclingexperts.co.uk for information and advice on cycling and find your local independent cycle retailer.

Search News

Results: 101-110 of 851


15 Oct 2024

The ACT is launching a campaign to ensure fair and accurate reporting of e-bike-related news while promoting the positive aspects of e-bike usage.

11 Oct 2024

ACT parent company Bira has responded to the BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor for September 2024

10 Oct 2024

Cycle to Work scheme provider Gogeta has reported a significant increase in the number of employers signing up to its scheme.

9 Oct 2024

A UK cycling charity focused on recycling unused bikes and providing them to disadvantaged people has set up a fundraiser to help tackle significant increases in its costs.

9 Oct 2024

Long-standing independent bike shop Cyclesense has revealed a complete rebrand as it seeks to reflect its evolution from a local shop to a nationally recognised cycling retailer.

3 Oct 2024

The Federation of Small Businesses has launched a new initiative, which it says aims to transform high streets across the UK, by advancing economic, social, and cultural benefits, while also...

3 Oct 2024

3 in 4 Britons (77%) would ban paper receipts if they knew how many trees were cut down to generate them – and millennials are the most eco-conscious (rising to 87%).

25 Sep 2024

Major media outlets, including the BBC and Sky News, as well as regional and cycling-focused media to the growing  have been giving significant coverage to E-Bike Positive, the largest-ever...

25 Sep 2024

The Association of Cycle Traders (ACT) is excited to announce its new partnership with Renticy, the dynamic platform transforming retail through rental solutions. This collaboration brings a...

24 Sep 2024

The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) is set to address critical issues facing the UK's high streets at its upcoming Annual Conference, marking the event's return after a six-year...

ACT Urges Vigilance in E-bike Reporting and Promotes Positive Campaign

Posted on in Business News , Cycles News

The ACT is launching a campaign to ensure fair and accurate reporting of e-bike-related news while promoting the positive aspects of e-bike usage.

e-Bike Phone

This initiative comes in response to recent instances of misleading headlines and articles that could negatively impact the perception of e-bikes, as well as to support the ongoing 'E-Bike Positive' campaign.

Jonathan Harrison, Director of the ACT, said:

"We've observed a concerning trend in some media outlets where the term 'e-bike' is being used inappropriately or sensationally, particularly in accident reports. This not only misrepresents the nature of e-bikes but also risks damaging public perception of what is an increasingly popular and sustainable mode of transport."

The campaign was sparked by a recent incident where a member of the ACT successfully challenged a BBC article that initially implied a connection between an accident and the use of an e-bike. Following a complaint, the publication amended both the headline and content to more accurately reflect the incident as one of dangerous cycling, rather than an issue specific to e-bikes.

Mr Harrison said:

"In my opinion, the main cause of e-bike and battery fears is the increasing coverage - both in the media and online social channels - of fires linked to unsafe e-bike batteries and chargers, which has the overall effect of damaging the reputation of all e-bikes.

"In most cases, these unfortunate incidents are caused not by certified OEM e-bikes but by uncertified, aftermarket batteries imported to the UK, purchased via online auction sites or unapproved retailers. It is this misconception of all e-bikes being unsafe that jeopardises the growth of e-bikes as a highly beneficial, sustainable transport solution."

The ACT is actively involved in the 'E-Bike Positive' campaign. This initiative aims to help the public distinguish safer, reputable products from high-risk ones causing these incidents, while also sharing the positive effects of riding an e-bike.

Mr Harrison added:

"E-bikes are an excellent solution for modern transportation for almost anyone. They offer an eco-friendly, inclusive and efficient mode of travel that help reduce congestion and make the air cleaner in our towns and cities. E-bikes encourage more active lifestyles, and make cycling with friends and family of mixed abilities possible."

The ACT emphasised that tech misinformation is playing a significant role in discouraging people from trying out a revolutionary, accessible form of active travel. Through the 'E-Bike Positive' campaign and this new initiative, the ACT aims to educate the general public to make informed purchase decisions, avoid risks, and be encouraged to enjoy the many benefits of e-bikes for transport or leisure.

Mr Harrison concluded:

"We're calling on all cycle shop owners and enthusiasts to be alert to such misrepresentations in their local press and to confidently request corrections when necessary. It's vital that we don't allow misunderstandings or sensationalism to hinder the adoption of e-bikes. We're committed to ensuring that the public receives accurate information about e-bikes and their benefits."

The ACT encourages anyone who spots potentially misleading reporting about e-bikes to contact the ACT or visit the ACT website for guidance on how to address the issue and support the positive messaging around e-bikes.

Useful links

If you have any other queries please contact us.