E-Bike Positive

Co-managed by UK cycle industry bodies the Bicycle Association (BA) and the Association of Cycle Traders (ACT), E-Bike Positive aims to safeguard the UK’s e-bike sector by providing a clear mechanism for consumers, regulators, insurers and other stakeholders to identify reputable, safe and legal e-bikes and responsible e-bike suppliers.

The E-Bike Positive Trust Mark is awarded once rigorous requirements are met regarding supplying, retailing, and supporting only legal and safe e-bike products. Organisations meeting these criteria are designated as an 'E-Bike Positive brand' or an 'E-Bike Positive retailer.'

Working together as an industry we can showcase the responsibility of our industry, and the safety and consumer benefits of our products, to secure a positive future for e-bikes in the UK.

3 Peaks Cycles is a retailer of Genesis, Cube, Gazelle and Ridgeback electric bikes. All of which are E-Bike Positive approved brands.

All e-bikes sold by E-bike Positive brands and retailers are road legal to use in the UK.

To be road legal, an e-bike needs to pass some simple tests:

• It must have working pedals
• It must have a motor power rating of at most 250W
• The motor assist must cut out at 25 km/h (15.5 mph)
• and in almost every case, it must be 'pedal assist' only (i.e. you have to be pedalling for the motor to operate at above walking pace)

If it meets all of these rules, and the rider is at least 14 year of age, you can ride it in the UK just like you can ride any other pedal cycle.

The confusion:

"E-bikes" can sometimes also refer to electrically powered motorcycles or mopeds. If these are properly approved by the DVSA, registered, taxed and insured, then these can be used legally on roads too (but not cycle paths) in accordance with the established rules and regulations for motorcycle use, including holding a suitable licence and wearing an approved motorcycle helmet.

You can read the government guidance about electric bikes by clicking here.