Electric Bikes

Electric bikes are a method of transport that has become more popular in the past years. They have numerous advantages; as long as you are aged 14 or above, you do not need to worry about a license or insurance and fuel costs whilst in Great Britain.

What Is An Electric Bike?

According to Transport For London, an eBike “is a standard pedal cycle fitted with a battery and electric motor”. Unlike full-power or no-pedal bikes, an eBike uses a pedal assist motor instead of a hub motor. This separate motor is located towards the rear wheel where it provides the assistance. This motor typically provides the pedal assist either by driving the wheel through the gear sprocket or by pressing against the rear tyre itself.

In order to be considered road-legal and able to be used on roads and cycle paths where ‘normal bicycles’ are allowed, the bicycle must have its speed restricted to 25km/h (15.5 mph) and the power cannot exceed 250 watts. Whilst it is possible to go faster than the restricted speed limit, the motor will not provide assistance above this speed, so you’ll be entirely reliant on your ‘leg power’.