Are full-throttle e-bikes legal? The answer is yes, they can be

Full-throttle e-bikes are increasingly common in towns and cities across the UK. Delivery riders like them because they’re a cheap alternative to a conventional moped. Most are illegal to ride on the roads. However, they don’t have to be.

E-bikes sold before January 1 2016 may have a full-speed throttle (you don't need to pedal at all to reach the 15.5mph limit) but are considered legal due to having been sold before the law changed. E-bikes sold after that need to be pedalled in order for the motor to work although they are permitted to have a throttle to engage a low-speed 'walk mode'. This feature helps when wheeling a heavy e-bike or e-cargo cycle.

However, there is another way to ride a throttle-only e-bike legally in the UK today if you follow the correct process.

Type approval for full-throttle e-bikes

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) must test and approve your e-bike as an L1e category 250W Low Powered Moped.. This approval process ensures the bike meets safety and compliance standards set out in the Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) regulations.

The approval process requires the bike be taken to a specially approved testing centre. If it meets the required standards, you’ll receive a British National Type Approval certificate, printed with your bike’s frame number.

{{cta-cycling}}

How do full-throttle e-bikes work?

Full-throttle e-bikes function like regular electric bicycles when the throttle isn’t engaged. Riders can use the throttle for an extra push when needed, without compromising other standard EAPC functions.

Understanding L1e e-bikes

L1e electric bikes are classified under the Low Powered Moped category. They must meet specific requirements:

1. Pedal Capability: The bike must be equipped with pedals capable of propelling it.
2. Motor Specifications: The electric motor should not exceed 250 watts and cannot propel the bike faster than 15.5 mph.

These e-bikes must have front and rear lights operated together by one single switch. Once the authorities approve them, riders can legally use these bikes on roads and cycle paths in the UK at speeds up to 15.5 mph using the throttle.

Why choose a full-throttle e-bike?

Enhanced Control: They offer better control and safety when navigating traffic at low speeds.
Instant Power: Full-throttle e-bikes deliver immediate acceleration, useful for starting from traffic lights or climbing hills.
Inclusivity: These e-bikes enable people with mobility issues to enjoy the benefits of cycling.

How much does e-bike type approval cost?

Anyone can get their bike approved at a DVSA-approved centre for £55, payable at the time of booking. This fee covers the test and certification, ensuring your bike meets all necessary standards.

Buying a legal full-throttle e-bike

Wisper bikes offer a comprehensive Single Vehicle Approval certification service, priced at £300 for a new bike or £350 for a used Wisper bike, in addition to the bike’s purchase price.

E-bike insurance cover

E-bikes are pricey, with the battery alone costing £500 to replace, so it's no surprise thieves target them.

The good news is that most cycle insurers now cover e-bikes as standard. However, every provider does things differently.

For example, some insurance providers boast about replacing stolen bicycles on a new-for-old basis, but once your bike is a few years old it no longer qualifies so they devalue it anyway. Others make it difficult to claim for stolen batteries and other components.

Here at ETA cycle insurance, we don't think that's right. We never devalue bikes, no matter their age, we have a no-quibble battery theft policy, and we cover components including quick-release wheels. We know how troublesome it can be to break down on a bike so we include Cycle Rescue; a recovery service that covers punctures, mechanical problems and even a flat battery.

{{cta-cycling}}

The ethical choice

The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK’s most ethical provider.