Are full-throttle e-bikes legal? Yes, they can be

Full-throttle e-bikes are increasingly common in towns and cities across the UK. Delivery riders like them because they’re a cheap alternative to a conventional moped. Most are illegal to ride on the roads. However, they don’t have to be.

E-bikes sold before January 1 2016 may have a full-speed throttle (you don't need to pedal at all to reach the 15.5mph limit) but are considered legal due to having been sold before the law changed. E-bikes sold after that need to be pedalled in order for the motor to work although they are permitted to have a throttle to engage a low-speed 'walk mode'. This feature helps when wheeling a heavy e-bike or e-cargo cycle.

However, there is another way to ride a throttle-only e-bike legally in the UK today if you follow the correct process.

Approval for full-throttle e-bikes

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) must test and approve your e-bike as an L1e 250W.

The approval process requires the bike be taken to a specially approved testing centre. If it meets the required standards, you’ll receive a British National Vehicle Approval certificate, printed with your bike’s frame number.

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How do full-throttle e-bikes work?

Full-throttle e-bikes function like regular electric bicycles when the throttle isn’t engaged. Riders can use the throttle for an extra push when needed, without compromising other standard EAPC functions.

Understanding L1e e-bikes

L1e electric bikes are classified under the low-powered moped category. There are various types of L1e moped, but special provision has been made for bikes that have a full throttle but in all other respects remain an EAPC.  L1e 250W category e-bikes must have:

1. pedals capable of propelling it
2. an electric motor should not exceeding 250 watts that cuts out at 15.5 mph
3. front and rear lights operated together by one single switch

Once the authorities approve them, riders can legally use these bikes on roads and cycle paths in the UK at speeds up to 15.5 mph using the throttle. L1e 250W e-bikes do not require motor insurance and can be covered under a cycle insurance policy.

Why choose a full-throttle e-bike?

Enhanced Control: They offer better control and safety when navigating traffic at low speeds.
Instant Power: Full-throttle e-bikes deliver immediate acceleration, useful for starting from traffic lights or climbing hills.
Inclusivity: These e-bikes enable people with mobility issues to enjoy the benefits of cycling.

How much does e-bike vehicle approval cost?

Anyone can get their bike SVA (single vehicle approval) approved at a DVSA-approved centre for £55, payable at the time of booking. This fee covers the test and certification.

Buying a legal full-throttle e-bike

Wisper bikes offer a comprehensive Single Vehicle Approval certification service, priced at £300 for a new bike or £350 for a used Wisper bike, in addition to the bike’s purchase price.

E-bike insurance cover

E-bikes are pricey, with the battery alone costing £500 to replace, so it's no surprise thieves target them.

The good news is that most cycle insurers now cover e-bikes as standard. However, every provider does things differently.

For example, some insurance providers boast about replacing stolen bicycles on a new-for-old basis, but once your bike is a few years old it no longer qualifies so they devalue it anyway. Others make it difficult to claim for stolen batteries and other components.

Here at ETA cycle insurance, we don't think that's right. We never devalue bikes, no matter their age, we have a no-quibble battery theft policy, and we cover components including quick-release wheels. We know how troublesome it can be to break down on a bike so you have the option of including Cycle Rescue; our recovery service that covers punctures, mechanical problems and even a flat battery.

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The ethical choice

The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK’s most ethical provider.