Electric bicycleUnited Kingdom

An electric bicycle is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that provides assistance to the rider.

Pedal assistance means that the electric motor provides power while the rider pedals. The assistance normally decreases or stops when a specified speed is reached.

It can be. Electric bicycles that remain within the applicable motor-power and assistance-speed limits are commonly treated as bicycles. Faster or more powerful models may belong to another vehicle category.

The permitted assistance speed depends on the vehicle category and local law. Ordinary pedal-assisted bicycles commonly stop providing motor assistance at approximately 25 km/h.

Yes, by your own effort where otherwise permitted. The assistance limit normally determines when the motor stops helping; it does not necessarily prevent the bicycle itself from travelling faster downhill or through pedalling.

This depends on its legal classification. Ordinary low-power pedal-assisted bicycles commonly require no driving licence, while faster electric bicycles may require a moped or another licence.

Ordinary pedal-assisted bicycles generally do not require registration, but high-speed electric bicycles may require registration and a licence plate.

Helmet requirements depend on the country and vehicle category. Ordinary e-bikes may follow normal bicycle helmet rules, while faster electric bicycles can have specific compulsory helmet requirements.

Ordinary electric bicycles generally follow the same cycle-path rules as conventional bicycles. Different rules can apply to faster or more powerful electric bicycles.

This depends on the vehicle's technical characteristics and local law. Ordinary pedal-assisted bicycles commonly do not require motor-vehicle insurance, while vehicles capable of greater independent motor propulsion may be subject to insurance requirements.

Usually yes. Most electric bicycles can still be pedalled like conventional bicycles when the motor is switched off or the battery is depleted, although their additional weight may make pedalling harder.

Yes, when the bicycle is designed and legally equipped for them. Passenger seats, cargo areas, child restraints and trailers must satisfy the applicable safety and traffic rules.