E-bike seizures in Wales soar amid concerns over pedestrian safety
E-bike confiscations in South Wales rose sharply from 66 to 137 in the year leading up to August 2023.
The number of illegally modified electric bikes (e-bikes) seized by South Wales Police has surged over the past year, sparking concerns about the risks they pose to pedestrians.
According to an investigation, confiscations in South Wales rose sharply from 66 to 137 in the year leading up to August 2023.
Under UK law, e-bikes are limited to a speed of 15.5 mph, but many seized bikes have been modified to exceed this, making them a danger on roads and pavements.
Conversion kits, which enable riders to modify e-bikes, can be purchased online for as little as £300, making these alterations widely accessible.
Some of the illegal modifications include bypassing the pedal-assist feature, turning the e-bike into an electric moped or motorbike.
These modifications mean that, under the law, the bikes should be registered, taxed, and insured.
These modified e-bikes, often used by food delivery riders and commuters, are sometimes capable of reaching much higher speeds, increasing the risk of serious injury in collisions.
Authorities are focusing on confiscation rather than prosecution, with many illegal e-bikes being destroyed to keep the public safe.
However, there are growing calls for better enforcement of e-bike laws and increased awareness to ensure riders understand the risks involved.
Tanya Braun, director of policy and communications at walking charity Living Streets, said illegally modified e-bikes used on pavements:
"pose the same danger and provoke the same fear as a motorbike coming up alongside a pedestrian".
She stressed the need for "properly resourcing community policing" to support enforcement of e-bike laws, and for awareness of the safety hazard the vehicles create so users "know what it is they are buying".
As e-bikes become more popular in Wales, safety concerns around illegally modified vehicles are mounting, with officials urging riders to comply with regulations to avoid accidents and legal repercussions.