Nearly six in 10 Britons believe electric bikes are too dangerous, prompting calls for tougher regulations to tackle illegal models and improve public safety.
A recent survey found that 61 per cent think e-bikes are too dangerous, highlighting growing concern over illegal e-bikes capable of exceeding the UK's legal speed limits.
Under current UK law, electrically assisted pedal cycles can only provide motor assistance up to 15.5mph and must have a maximum motor output of 250 watts. Riders do not need a licence, insurance or vehicle tax if the bike meets these requirements.
If an e-bike provides motor assistance above 15.5mph or exceeds the legal power limit, it is treated as a moped, and must be registered, insured and taxed, while the rider must also hold the appropriate driving licence.
Despite these rules, the survey found that 42 per cent of respondents were unaware that faster e-bikes are subject to the same legal requirements as normal vehicles.
Around 15 per cent of those surveyed said they had either been involved in an incident involving an e-bike or knew someone who had.
Public opinion also appears to be divided over whether e-bikes should remain legal, with half of respondents saying they should not be banned, while 44 per cent said they should be made illegal altogether.
More than 700 illegally ridden e-bikes and e-scooters were seized in Scotland last year, compared with just 49 the previous year, highlighting the growing scale of the issue.
Britons have shown support for banning electric bikes to improve safety
| GETTYMany higher-powered electric bikes continue to be sold online for use on private land.
Campaigners have raised concerns that some buyers may not fully understand the restrictions, with illegally modified bikes ending up on public roads.
Experts explained that clearer guidance for consumers, stronger enforcement and tighter regulations would be needed to reduce the number of illegal bikes in use and prevent fires caused by unsafe batteries.
Ian Wilson, bicycle insurance expert at Tiger.co.uk, said: "E-bikes have the potential to be a useful and healthy form of transport, but we need tougher regulations and clearer guidance on how and when to use them.
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E-bikes have been found to be blocking pavements in London | PA"The majority of those surveyed thought they were too dangerous, causing them to question if they should be banned altogether."
He also warned that illegal e-bikes can be easily purchased online and often exceed the legal power and speed limit requirements for e-bikes, "meaning they aren't compliant with UK road vehicle regulations".
"This not only puts other road users at greater risk but also increases the likelihood of dangerous battery fires," he warned.
Mr Wilson urged owners to ensure they purchase their e-bike from a trusted retailer and avoid modifying it to travel faster than the legal limit.
E-bikes have been growing in popularity across the UK | PA"Those who own an e-bike have a responsibility to make sure they have bought it from a trusted, legal source, have not modified or tampered with the speed and have all the additional legal requirements in accordance with UK EAPC regulations," he said.
He also advised riders to wear appropriate protective equipment, increase speed gradually, use cycle paths where possible and take extra care around pedestrians.
E-bikes have become increasingly popular in recent years as a greener alternative to travelling by car, with many people using them for commuting, leisure and exercise.