September 23rd 2024.
In the past year, there has been a significant increase in the number of illegally modified e-bikes on the roads. These modified bikes pose a great risk to other cyclists and pedestrians. Authorities have recently seized a monstrous e-bike that can reach speeds of up to 70mph, highlighting the growing concern about these "death trap" vehicles.
As more and more people in London opt for biking instead of taking public transportation or driving, bike lanes have become busier. However, along with the increase in the number of bikes, there has also been a worrying trend of illegal e-bikes that have been altered to reach dangerous and even lethal speeds.
New figures have revealed that a staggering number of 937 illegal e-bikes have been confiscated by police forces across the UK in the year leading up to August 11th. This is a significant increase from the previous year's number of 511 seizures. Sergeant Chris Hook, who works with the City of London Police, displayed the confiscated bikes at the police station, emphasizing the severity of the issue.
Campaigners, including Cycling UK, have raised concerns about the dangers of these illegal e-bikes. Under UK law, e-bike motors are required to cut out when they reach a speed of 15.5mph. However, many of the seized bikes have been found to exceed this limit, with one bike reaching a staggering speed of 70mph. In some cases, the bikes were also found to be powered without the pedals being turned, essentially turning them into electric mopeds or motorbikes that should be registered and taxed if used on roads.
The City of London Police, who seized the highest number of illegal e-bikes at 295, have also come across various other violations, such as bikes with motors that exceed the legal limit of 500 watts and bikes with severely worn-out tires and unsafe electrical wiring. One officer described a seized bike as a "death trap," and it was taken away from its rider, a food delivery courier, for further inspection.
These illegal e-bikes are often sold online as conversion kits for as low as £300, making it easier for people to overlook the potential dangers and risks associated with them. Out of 46 police forces, 27 provided figures in response to a Freedom of Information request, and it was found that the number of seizures has increased by 83% compared to the previous year. This alarming increase suggests that there may be many more illegal e-bikes on the roads that have not been seized.
Acting Sergeant Chris Hook, who is part of the City of London Police's cycle unit, explained that a wide range of individuals, including commuters, food delivery workers, and even criminals, use these illegally modified e-bikes. He also highlighted the dangers of these bikes, with some weighing over 50kg and capable of reaching speeds of up to 60mph. He stated that a collision with one of these bikes could result in serious injury or even death.
Monica Scigliano, a senior policy officer at Cycling UK, also expressed concerns about the confusion surrounding the legality of e-bikes. She explained that to be considered an e-cycle, the bike must be pedaled, and the motor must cut out at 15.5mph. However, many people buy e-bikes and then modify them to go faster, which is considered riding a motorbike without insurance or a license.
Despite the potential consequences, the only action often taken against riders of illegal e-bikes is the confiscation and destruction of the bike. Acting Sgt Hook defended this approach, stating that it is necessary to keep both the riders and the public safe. However, campaigners like Sarah Gayton, a street access campaign coordinator with the National Federation of the Blind, believe that tougher regulations are needed to act as a bigger deterrent.
Gayton also highlighted the dangers that these illegal e-bikes pose, especially for visually impaired individuals. She stated that they are often flying at high speeds, making it difficult for pedestrians to cross the street safely. She commended the City of London Police for taking action against these dangerous vehicles and expressed her hope for stricter regulations to ensure the safety of all road users.
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