Following the confusion created by the latest BBC Panorama programme and their inability to differentiate legal electric bikes and legal throttles, I have refreshed my earlier article on this subject
Pre-2016
When considering the legal use of throttles on e-bikes it is useful to look at the history.
Until 1st Jan 2016 the UK law relating to ebikes, EPACs, (Electric Pedal Assisted Cycles) was different to European Law. On that date, the UK law was “harmonised” with Europe. “Twist and Go“ throttles which would power an ebike up to 15mph without pedalling became generally illegal.
The Current Situation
Now, it has only been legal for an EPAC to be capable of travelling 4mph (6kph) unless the pedals are being turned. This as generally known as the “Walk Start” process. It can be selected on most UK and EU brands of ebike. The throttle gives you a “kick start”. As you start to pedal and increase speed over 4mph, the throttle cuts out and the pedal assist system cuts in and the motor starts to assist in the expected way. This is only legal on an electric bike with a motor no greater than 250watt nominal power and a maximum speed under power of 15mph (25Kph). All supposed e-bikes outside these restrictions are illegal vehicles unless they are “Type Approved” under different legislation
The UK interpretation of the Law
Many countries, especially in the flat Netherlands, were happy with this process. Several brands, mostly selling in the UK as part of EU at that time, chose a different interpretation. Many UK e-bikes let the throttle continue working up to 15mph (25kph). This is OK as long as the rider while pedalling. This is covered by the wording of the Legislation. If the rider stops turning the pedals, the motor will cut out and speed will slow to 4mph, (unless freewheeling downhill). At 4mph, the walk start facility will cut back in. This remains the situation today.
Full Throttle E-bikes (Twist & Go)
Hidden away in the EU legislation is a little known vehicle Classification L1 e – Low powered Moped. This classification is almost identical to the UK EPAC Legislation pre 2016. That is, the Throttle is legal up to 15mph without pedalling. Not all e-bikes conform to this standard but, many of the better ones with mudguards and lights operated from the e-bike battery do comply. But DVSA has refused to classify any EPACs as L1-e and every single bike has to be tested and granted a certificate. During the second half of 2024, DVSA has been checking up on this requirement.
Once your e-bike is tested and has a Certificate, it lasts for the life of the bike. DVLA has a copy of the Certificate so the Police can check the legality.
Wisper electric bikes offer this facility on most of their range. The cost is £200 and delivery time is about 6 weeks
Using the throttle so that the rider can have a “rest” is a very useful function. But even on the 48V bikes, the rider will have to work on hills and use the gears to assist the motor.
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