Police issue warning on e-bike and scooter purchases this Christmas

Police issue warning on e-bike and scooter purchases this Christmas

Merseyside Police is urging parents to check before they buy e-bikes or scooters this Christmas, after seizing more than 1,000 illegal vehicles across the region in the past year.

These seizures include e-bikes and electric scooters that were either illegally modified or being used unlawfully on public roads.

Officers warn that while these gifts may seem exciting, buying the wrong type of vehicle - or failing to follow the law - can lead to disappointment, financial loss, and even criminal consequences.

Know the law before you buy

You can ride an electric bike, or an 'Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC), without a license or insurance if you're 14 or over.

Electric bikes:

• must have a maximum output of 250 watts
• must only assist while pedalling (not via a 'twist and go' throttle/accelerator)
• must disengage once the bike reaches 15.5 mph (25 km/h)
• must display manufacturer information, battery details, maximum speed, and power output, either on a securely fitted plate or clearly marked on the frame.

If an electric bike does not meet these criteria, it is classed as an electric moped or electric motorcycle and must comply with relevant laws, including registration, insurance, helmet use, and appropriate licensing.

Electric Scooters

Privately owned e-scooters cannot be used on public roads, pavements, or cycle lanes, only on private land with permission.

Rental e-scooters are available in some parts of the UK through approved schemes. Riders must hold a driving licence, have insurance, and meet the minimum age limit.

It's not currently possible to insure privately owned e-scooters, meaning they cannot be legally used in public spaces such as parks, pavements, or shopping centres.

Illegal e-bikes and scooters aren't just a safety risk - they're increasingly linked to serious crimes, including drug dealing, robberies, and county lines activity. Many seized vehicles have also been involved in road traffic collisions.

Since 1 January 2025, Merseyside Police has seized 1,000 unregistered vehicles (e-bikes, e-scooters, and scramblers) across the region after they were used without insurance or a valid licence. Earlier this year, the force launched Operation Gears to crack down on criminality involving these vehicles.

Superintendent Phil Mullally, who leads Operation Gears for Merseyside Police, said: "We know parents want to give their children something special at Christmas, but buying an illegal or unsafe e-bike or scooter can lead to disappointment and danger.

"Our message is simple: Buy Right, Ride Right. Make sure your gift is legal, safe, and secure."

These vehicles are also a prime target for thieves. To reduce the risk of robbery:

• Register your bike with BikeRegister - officers regularly hold free marking events; check your Local Policing Facebook page for details
• Install a tracker to help recover stolen property
• Always secure your bike when not in use

Superintendent Phil Mullally added: "Failing to comply with these laws means the vehicle can be seized, and parents risk wasting money on a gift that cannot be legally used.

"We want to encourage the safe and legal use of e-bikes and scooters. This isn't about stopping people from using legal electric vehicles, quite the opposite. It's about making it safer for law-abiding bike and e-bike riders across Merseyside.

"As part of our Winter of Action campaign, our officers will be out on visible patrols in areas known for illegal e-bike activity. We're focused on tackling street crime and antisocial behaviour, using both enforcement and prevention to address persistent issues."

For more advice on buying e-bikes and scooters legally and securely, visit: Operation Gears