Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if he will make an estimate of the number of e-bikes used on public highways that have been modified to travel at speeds higher than those permitted; what steps he plans to take to help ensure the safety of road users impacted by modified e-bikes; and if he will make a statement.

The Department does not hold an estimate for the number of e-bikes that have been modified to travel at higher speeds. Modifications of this sort are only permitted if the vehicle meets the relevant type approval requirements and is registered, taxed and insured. The rider must also hold an appropriate driving licence and wear an approved motorcycle helmet. Enforcement of these requirements on the road is a matter for the police, while the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency is responsible for ensuring that illegally modified e-bikes are not offered for sale for use on the public highway. Various penalties apply for these different offences: for example, riding without insurance could result in a fixed penalty of £300 and 6 penalty points. There have also been a number of successful prosecutions for the sale of illegally modified e-bikes, resulting in criminal convictions, substantial fines, and recalling the e-bikes.