Police crack down on illegal e-bikes in Exeter city centre

Police in Exeter have stepped up patrols to tackle the growing issue of illegally modified e-bikes, seizing five vehicles found to be operating above legal limits.

Officers from the local Neighbourhood Team carried out checks in the city centre, speaking to numerous cyclists riding electric bikes.

While many were found to be compliant with regulations, five bikes were seized under Section 165a of the Road Traffic Act after officers identified modifications that made them illegal.

Sergeant James Wellard warned of the dangers of these modified bikes, which pose a serious risk to both riders and the public. “Modified e-bikes can be extremely dangerous, putting the rider and members of the public at risk of serious harm,” he said.

“The modified e-bikes make them mechanically propelled vehicles and therefore the bikes must have insurance and the riders must hold a substantive driving licence.”

He urged prospective buyers to ensure they purchase e-bikes from reputable sources and to check government guidance. “Often retailers will state the bike is legal but this is not always correct and could result in your bike being seized; you may also be reported for traffic offences.”

The crackdown in Exeter comes as part of a wider police initiative, Operation Forerunner, which aims to tackle illegal and dangerous e-bike use across Devon and Cornwall.

The operation follows mounting concerns from residents over riders using modified e-bikes at high speeds, often in pedestrian areas.

Reports of accidents and near misses have led police to take action, with the first operation in Plymouth earlier this month resulting in the seizure of seven illegally modified bikes - some capable of exceeding 40mph.

A spokesperson from the Special Constabulary Roads Policing Team highlighted the risks: “The presence of e-bikes on pavements and pedestrian areas has caused significant public nuisance, with members of the public reporting feeling unsafe and inconvenienced by the reckless behaviour of some riders. We have received a number of reports of people having to take evasive action and jump out of the way of these riders as they have been travelling at speed through pedestrianised areas.”

According to government regulations, e-bikes can be used on public roads without a licence or insurance provided they meet the following criteria:

- Pedals must be capable of propelling the bike.

- The electric motor must not exceed 250 watts of continuous rated power.

- Electrical assistance must cut off when the bike reaches 15.5mph (25kph).

- Riders must be at least 14 years old.

Failure to adhere to these rules can result in bikes being seized and riders facing fines or prosecution.

Cyclists looking to protect their bikes from theft can attend a free Bike Register marking event, hosted by Devon & Cornwall Police.

The next session takes place on Saturday 15 March at Heavitree Pleasure Ground, Whipton Lane, Exeter, from 2pm.

Riders should bring their bikes and a smartphone to receive a free security sticker that allows police to return stolen bikes to their rightful owners if recovered.