More than 60 illegal e-bikes have been seized across the county so far this year, including seizures in Mansfield, Ashfield, Gedling, West Bridgford and Beeston.
Bespoke operations continue to be carried out in these areas, using tactics developed from Operation Wrangel – an initiative launched in the city centre in November that has resulted in 112 illegal bikes being seized during patrols.
As a result of enforcement action, offenders have been brought before the courts, with some having to pay over £1,000 and receiving eight points on their driving licences.
Under UK law, e-bikes must comply with UK Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) regulations, including a 15.5 mph speed limit and a motor power of no more than 250W.
Non-compliant models are classified as motor vehicles, requiring insurance, taxation and a valid licence.
As part of Operation Wrangel, officers are now using a compact dynamometer to test the top speed of e-bikes in order to catch those failing to comply with the law.
To date, 283 two-wheeled vehicles have been assessed using this portable device, with fewer than a quarter of these vehicles being legally compliant.
As part of our successful operation, officers are also providing education to help keep riders and members of the public safe.
This has included the distribution of 229 education packs as part of the operation so far, and 19 warning letters have been issued to riders as appropriate.
Road safety and crime prevention advice has also been given. This proactive engagement has included high-visibility tabards being handed out to riders with legal bikes, advice on free bike-marking schemes to deter theft and advice on bike servicing and maintenance.
If you’re using an e-bike that does not conform to Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) regulations on a road or in a public space, or an EAPC in an antisocial manner, you risk having your vehicle seized.
E-scooters are illegal to use in public unless they are part of an authorised rental scheme. You can only ride a privately owned electric scooter on private land with the permission of the landowner.
