MPs call for urgent crackdown on illegal and unsafe e-bikes in UK
A cross-party group of MPs and peers has warned of growing dangers from illegal e-bikes, particularly those used by gig economy delivery drivers, and is calling for immediate government action.
The all-party parliamentary group for cycling and walking says high-powered e-bikes and cheap conversion kits are being widely sold online, often with loopholes claiming they are for “off-road use only”. These bikes can reach speeds of 40mph and use motors far beyond legal limits , making them illegal under UK law.
The report highlights risks ranging from road safety to house fires caused by substandard batteries. London Fire Brigade attended 179 e-bike or e-scooter fires in 2023, up from just 8 in 2019.
The group is urging:
Clearer police powers to seize illegal e-bikes
A scrappage scheme funded by delivery firms
Stricter regulation of online sales
A ban on the “off-road use” loophole
Stronger employer responsibility in the gig economy
Labour MP Fabian Hamilton said: “This is a crisis hiding in plain sight. We need urgent action from government and industry to stop unsafe products entering the UK.”
