Off-Road Bikes Seized

Off-Road Bikes Seized

Too fast, too furious - and definitely not legal.

The e-bike pictured below being was ridden in and around Thorne town centre this weekend by a child, it was capable of reaching 31mph and when seen by officers it was seized under section 59 of the Police Reform Act.

Know the limits before you twist the throttle!

UK law on e-bikes (EAPCs) on public roads:

To be legal on UK roads and cycle paths, an e-bike must:

Have pedals that can propel the bike

Motor rated at no more than 250 watts (continuous output)

Motor assistance must cut off at 15.5mph (25km/h)

The rider must be aged 14 years or older

Throttles are not allowed unless:

They only work up to a walking pace (6 km/h)

If the e-bike does more than the above, like the one photographed below (for example 31mph…) then…

It's legally treated as a motor vehicle which would require

Registration
Insurance
Tax
The rider would require a valid driving licence
An approved helmet

Without those…

Section 59 Police Reform Act is very much on the menu alongside driving without insurance…

What is section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002?

Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002 is a power to seize vehicles being driven carelessly, inconsiderately, or off-road in a manner causing alarm, distress, or annoyance to the public, allowing for immediate seizure without a warning if impractical.

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PS 3171 Housley
(South Yorkshire Police, PS, Doncaster East NPT)