Illegal e-bikes and scooters seized in Sheffield city centre
About 150 e-bikes and electric scooters being used illegally have been seized in a crackdown by police in Sheffield.One of the e-bikes seized was capable of being ridden at speeds of 40mph (64.3km/h) - more than twice the legal limit of 15.5mph (25km/h), South Yorkshire Police said.The force warned that where an e-bike exceeded the limit, it was considered a motorcycle or moped and required insurance, tax and a valid licence.Insp Andy Rimmer said e-bikes travelling at such speeds would put "pedestrians going about their daily business at risk".
E-scooters are illegal to use on public roads, pavements and cycle lanes and are only permitted on private land with the landowner's permission.The exception is when they are hired as part of a government-approved scheme and are allowed in certain areas.The force said work had been ongoing in the city centre area since December to target what they said were "potentially dangerous machines".Insp Rimmer said a 34-year-old man had been reported for summons after being found on an illegally modified e-bike with no insurance or licence.He added: "We take a structured approach when it comes to electric e-bikes and scooters - and the first stage is always engagement and education."If you're stopped riding what we think is an illegal electric bike or scooter, we will explain and encourage you to follow the law."But, as our results show, we do have the power to seize them depending on the circumstances."
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