You Said, We Did: Tackling Illegal E-Bikes

We continue to receive a significant amount of feedback from local residents regarding the use of e-bikes and the safety concerns they can present within our communities.

This is an issue the Metropolitan Police Service takes seriously. At a strategic level, we are working with key partners to explore longer-term solutions and help design out the problems associated with illegally modified e-bikes.

In the meantime, local officers remain proactive in identifying and taking action against illegally modified e-bikes, particularly when they are being ridden irresponsibly and putting other road users and pedestrians at risk.

Today, while on patrol on Uxbridge Road near Twyford Gardens, officers observed an e-bike rider fail to comply with a red light at a pedestrian crossing.

Officers attempted to stop the rider as he approached the junction with Crown Street. However, rather than stop, the rider turned around and made off towards Gunnersbury Lane.

Officers followed and subsequently detained the rider on Mill Hill Road.

A closer inspection of the bike revealed a speed display indicating it was capable of reaching 48 km/h. For an electrically assisted pedal cycle to remain road legal in the UK, motor assistance must cut off at 15.5 mph (25 km/h).

As a result, the e-bike was seized and the rider was reported for offences under the Road Traffic Act.

We will continue to act on concerns raised by residents and target those who use the roads unlawfully and put others at risk.

You said illegal e-bikes are causing concern in the community. We are doing something about it.