A new consultation on electric scooters could launch in the near future, potentially bringing fresh restrictions for electric bikes amid serious safety fears. The Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety (PACTS) has published a briefing for ministers stating that high-powered electric bikes could pose serious dangers.
Illegal E-Bikes Cause Rising Risks
The briefing specifically cites issues around illegal electric bikes that exceed the Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) definition, causing "immediate and escalating risks" to all road users. A growing number of illegal vehicles have been seen on UK roads in recent years, ignoring EAPC criteria.
Tony Campbell, chief executive of the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA), welcomed the Government's commitment to consult. "Non-compliant, illegal and often high-powered e-bikes are distorting the market and undercutting reputable manufacturers and retailers who invest in safety and compliance," he said. He called for stronger marketplace accountability, targeted enforcement, and policy that removes gig economy incentives to choose unsafe, non-compliant alternatives.
Campbell noted that the consultation would be a "real chance to set clear rules" that protect riders, pedestrians, and businesses selling legal products.
Teenager Jailed for Fatal Crash
The announcement follows a tragic incident in Sunderland where a teenager riding an illegal e-bike killed an 86-year-old grandmother on a zebra crossing. Billy Stokoe, 19, was over the cannabis limit when he collided with Gloria Stephenson while riding an illegal and defective electric Sur-Ron bike on May 16 last year.
Newcastle Crown Court heard that Stokoe held his mobile phone in his left hand despite the left-sided brake being the only one that worked, and rode for half a mile in that manner. Dashcam footage showed he did not slow down or try to avoid Mrs Stephenson, who was walking her daughter's dog and trying to complete her 10,000 steps a day. Stokoe was jailed for six years and nine months.
