E-bikes
What is an e-bike?
E-bikes (Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles, or EAPCs) have become a recent addition to our transportation choices, offering extra options for commuting, recreation and work.
Micromobility is evolving, and while the government prepares new legislation, there are existing laws that dictate what you can and cannot ride on public roads.
Below you will find the current laws, safety advice, and details on the types of e-bikes you can legally use in Hounslow.
Is your e-bike legal? (The Checklist)
To be ridden legally on public roads in the UK without a licence, tax, or insurance, your e-bike must meet all the following "EAPC" requirements:
1. The Bike
- Pedals: It must be fitted with pedals that are capable of propelling it.
- Maximum Power: The electric motor must have a maximum continuous rated power output of no more than 250 watts.
- Maximum Speed: The electrical assistance must cut off when the vehicle reaches 15.5 mph.
- Throttles: It cannot be propelled without pedalling (e.g. using a "twist and go" throttle) unless it has been "type approved" by the manufacturer.
2. The Markings
The bike must display a plate or sticker showing both:
- The manufacturer
- The continuous rated power output (e.g., 250w)
It must also show either:
- The battery’s voltage
- OR the maximum speed of the bike
3. The Rider
- Age: You must be at least 14 years old.
Important: If an e-bike exceeds these limits (e.g., has a motor over 250W or can be ridden faster than 15.5mph with a throttle), it is classified as a motorcycle/moped. You cannot ride it legally unless it is registered, taxed, insured, and you have a driving licence and a crash helmet.
Where can I ride?
If your bike meets the EAPC rules above:
- Allowed: You can ride on cycle paths and anywhere else pedal bikes are allowed.
- Prohibited: You cannot ride e-bikes on pavements.
Buying and Hiring
Where to purchase legal e-bikes in Hounslow
We recommend purchasing from reputable retailers who can guarantee the bike meets UK safety standards. Avoid buying second-hand or imported bikes that do not have clear specifications.
Find a Trusted Seller To help you buy with confidence, use the E-bike Positive retailer finder. This is a directory of bike shops and mechanics that have pledged to sell and repair only road-legal, safety-tested e-bikes and batteries.
E-bike Rental Scheme
Hounslow Council has partnered with Forest and Voi to provide shared e-bikes across the borough.
- Forest: Download the App
- Voi: Download the App
Parking: Please ensure rental bikes are parked in designated bays to keep pavements clear.
Information for Delivery Riders (Forest)
If you are a delivery rider, you can access exclusive packages and rates to use Forest e-bikes for your work.
- Discounted Rates: Forest offers specific "Delivery Minute Bundles" and a "Delivery Plus" subscription service designed for high-frequency users. These packages can significantly reduce the cost of your daily riding.
- How to Get Verified: To access these exclusive rates, you must verify your status as a delivery rider through the app. This usually involves submitting proof of your rider account.
- Pausing Your Ride: You can pause your ride while picking up or dropping off an order. This locks the bike and keeps it reserved for you, though minutes will continue to be deducted from your bundle.
- Parking: You must end your ride in a designated parking bay. Always check the app for the nearest "Green Bay" to avoid fines.
View full details for Delivery Riders on the Forest website
Safety and Enforcement
Risks of Illegal Modifications
Modifying an e-bike to go faster than 15.5mph or adding a more powerful motor is illegal.
- Safety: "De-restricting" an e-bike puts dangerous strain on brakes and frames not designed for high speeds.
- Fire Risk: Many illegal modifications involve tampering with batteries or using incompatible chargers, significantly increasing the risk of fire.
Fire Safety (#ChargeSafe)
- Never block your escape route: Charge batteries in a room with a smoke alarm, but never in a hallway.
- Use the correct charger: Only use the charger supplied by the manufacturer.
- Don't leave it unattended: Unplug the charger once the battery is full.
- London Fire Brigade #ChargeSafe advice
Reporting Issues
- Dangerous Riding: Report to the Police via 101 or Online.
- Abandoned Bikes: Report via FixMyStreet or the operator's app.
