Confused by e-bike laws?

Little wonder people get confused by e-bike laws - the cycles pictured above are visually identical so, based on appearance, it's impossible to tell which is an EAPC, L1e throttle-approved EAPC, L1e-A moped, L1e-B moped, or full-blown electric motorcycle.

The rules around e-bikes in the UK can feel like a minefield, but for most riders buying from a reputable retailer, there’s little to worry about. Things get more complicated when it comes to throttles, higher-powered models, and DIY kits that, if not properly registered, will land you on the wrong side of the law.

E-bikes that don’t need registration

The terms e-bike, pedelec, EAPC, and EPAC are often used interchangeably, but here’s the key point: If your electric bike has pedals and a motor capped at 250W, which stops assisting at 25kph (15.5mph), the law treats it like a conventional bicycle. That means you can ride it anywhere bikes are allowed, without needing a licence, insurance or helmet.

E-bike insurance isn’t a legal requirement, but many owners choose cover, especially one that includes breakdown recovery. ETA Cycle Rescue, for example, provides 24/7 roadside assistance, whether you’ve suffered a puncture, mechanical failure, or even a flat battery.

Legally, your e-bike should display a plate showing the manufacturer’s name and motor power (250W). In reality, this isn’t always the case, so if you’re unsure, check with your retailer.

A side note on throttles: UK law dictates that an e-bike can’t have a throttle that propels the bike beyond 4mph without pedalling, with two exceptions. If your e-bike was manufactured before 2016, this rule doesn’t apply. Otherwise, you may be able to gain ‘vehicle approval,’ allowing a twist-and-go throttle up to 15.5mph without pedalling.

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E-bikes that require vehicle approval

If you want your e-bike’s throttle to work up to 25kph (15.5mph) without pedalling, you’ll need vehicle approval with a categorisation of L1e. This process ensures motorised vehicles meet various standards., Crucially, these bikes are still considered bicycles so you can use them in bike lanes, and they do not require registration, insurance or a driving licence.

E-bikes that need registration

Anything more powerful, exceeding the speed or wattage limits above, is legally a low-powered moped. That means registration, insurance, a number plate, and a helmet are mandatory.

L1e-A: Type-approved low-powered mopeds up to 1,000W and 25kph (15.5mph). You’ll need a provisional or AM-category licence to ride one.

L1e-B: Type-approved low-powered mopeds up to 4,000W and 45kph (28mph). Again, you’ll need a provisional or AM-category licence.

Electric bikes exceeding these speed and power thresholds is legally a motorcycle, requiring the appropriate A1, A2, or A licence.

Could e-bike rules be made clearer?

The rules on EAPC throttles result from a European directive dating back to 2003, although UK law did not align with it until 2016. This is why e-bikes sold before this date are not subject to the same rules. Restrictions on the use of full throttle e-bikes came about because legislators wanted to preserve the legal categorisation of EACPs as bicycles. There was concern that a blurring of the lines between electric bicycles and low-powered might put this at risk. It's a completely legitimate concern but the current situation is complicated.

We've argued for a certification for EAPCs along the lines of the Red Tractor mark used by the food industry. The stamp would guarantee a bike meets UK Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) regulations – meaning it has pedals, a motor of no more than 250 watts, and power assistance that cuts out at 15.5mph (25km/h).

No legal grey areas, no nasty surprises.

Insurance for e-bikes

We cover all road-legal electric bicycles as standard. If the output of your electric bicycle does not exceed 250 W/15.5 mph, we’ll cover it and also include Cycle Rescue as standard. If your e-bike develops a mechanical fault, puncture, or even a flat battery, you can call on our breakdown team 24/7.

Every ETA cycle insurance policy includes the following as standard:

• Theft, accidental damage & vandalism
• E-bike battery theft cover
• Cycle Rescue (breakdown cover for your electric bicycle and you)
• No devaluation of your bike over time
• £2m third party PLUS £20,000 personal accident cover
• Shed and garage storage
• Low standard excess of 5% (£50 minimum)

Read a full list of everything we include as standard.

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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.

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