Cycling Scotland emphasises difference between legal and illegal e-bikes and praises work of E-Bike Positive campaign
Posted on in Business News , Cycles News
Cycling Scotland has highlighted the crucial distinction between legal and illegal e-bikes, warning that confusion risks undermining public trust in a technology that is helping thousands switch to healthier, more sustainable travel, while also praising the efforts of the UK-wide E-Bike Positive campaign in tackling misconceptions.
The article stresses that too often media reports and public debate fail to differentiate between legal e-bikes – capped at 15.5mph and 250 watts – and illegally modified versions or unlicensed electric motorcycles, which present serious risks to both riders and the public.
Cycling Scotland says in the article: “By taking action to tackle the use of illegal e-bikes and using language which clearly distinguishes the two, we can protect the many benefits that e-bikes bring, and ensure they remain an effective and sustainable travel choice for the future.”
Cycling Scotland also references the recent work of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Cycling & Walking (APPGCW), which has called for government action to clamp down on illegal modifications while protecting safe e-bike use.
In Scotland specifically, the article highlights that legal e-bikes are classified as Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPC), meaning they can be used on paths with non-motorised access rights, and stresses that this status must be safeguarded in any future regulation.
The E-Bike Positive campaign, which brings together cycling bodies, businesses and charities including the ACT, is working to correct misinformation, promote the benefits of legal e-bikes, and provide clear guidance to insurers, property owners and the public.