Regulations, legislation and standards

< Back | Last revised: 19th March 2018

Disclaimer

The information below summarises the relevant regulations for electric bikes as far as we (The ACT) understand at the time of writing. We believe that the below is an accurate interpretation of what the law states, however we cannot accept liability for any information that is incorrect or has since become out of date. We also cannot police any retailers who conduct any illegal activity either through choice or through ignorance of the law.

"Ultimately the interpretation of the law is a matter for the courts based on individual facts of any particular case. You are therefore advised to consult the relevant legislation and, if necessary, seek independent advice on specific legal questions." [1]

Key points

• E-bikes that meet the current EAPC regulations, minus a few exceptions, are treated as normal bicycles. The basic requirements are:
  
  
  • the cycle must be fitted with pedals that can propel it;
  • the electric motor must not exceed a maximum continuous rated power of 250W; and
  • the electric motor must not offer electrical assistance beyond a speed 15.5mph.
• Any other e-bikes that do not meet the EAPC regulations are subject to type approval and any associated registration, tax and licencing.

We are awaiting government confirmation in terms of how e-bike regulations may be affected by the exit from the EU. To read all that we know so far please visit EU Exit updates for e-bikes.

EAPC Regulations	Pedal Cycles Regulations	Type approval	"Twist and Go" cycles	Northern Ireland

EAPC Regulations	Pedal Cycles Regulations	Type approval
"Twist and Go" cycles	Northern Ireland

Last revised: 19th March 2018

Northern Ireland

The EAPC regulations apply to Great Britain. For N. Ireland the rules are currently different, but with new legislation being drafted to bring in line with the rest of the UK.

Type approval remains the same as it is EU legislation, so EAPCs (minus certain Twist & Go cycles) still do not need to be type approved. However in N. Ireland all electric cycles including EAPCs are currently classed as motor vehicles (motorcycles), which means that they need to be registered through the DVLA and the user must have the appropriate licence, tax, insurance and relevant safety equipment such as an approved motorcycle helmet. For more information on this please refer to the Selling S-Pedelecs page.

The responsibility for making sure that these requirements are met lies with the customer and not the retailer, however it is very much advised that the retailer makes the consumer aware of these responsibilities before any EAPC is purchased.