The simple answer is no, you do not need a licence to ride an electric bike
You can ride on public roads under the same regulations as a regular bicycle
The distance you can travel with power-assist is dependent on many factors (such as hill gradient and headwinds) so this will vary from around 30-80 miles.
Yes – you can pedal your eBike, like a regular bike
Typically 3.5 - 4.5 hours
Due to current UK legislation, the speed assistance is limited to 15.5 mph on pedal assist models with a 250 Watt motor
There is no British law to compel cyclists, of any age, to wear helmets when cycling, even though the Highway Code suggests that cyclists should wear a cycle helmet “which conforms to current regulations, is the correct size and securely fastened”
Yes – you can ride the bike in the rain without fear of being electrocuted, but like a regular bike, you should dry the bike after the ride, particularly metal parts such as the chain and related components to prevent corrosion
While the bikes can cope with rain and regular moisture from splashes and puddles, you should not wash the bike with a garden hose and never use a pressure washer, this may force water past seals and cause damage to internal components
An electric bike reduces the impact regular cycling can have on your back, shoulders, knees and arms
When riding up an incline or into a headwind, the electric motor will provide assistance (there will be no need to stand on your pedals or bear down on your arms/shoulders) and reduce the load on your body
The on-board computer control unit will determine a comfortable speed based on the speed with which you pedal
The pedal assistance level (1-5) will also affect the amount of power applied and in turn the speed at which you travel
Within just a few journeys you will quickly learn how to control your speed on your eBike
In the UK, the laws state that all electric bikes (motors) must only be for ‘assistance’ if they are fitted with a 250 Watt motor
This means you do need to pedal lightly to engage the motor assist, however, it’s worth noting that this is light pedalling