E-Bikes: Everything You Need to Know

Electric bikes have become increasingly popular, providing an efficient and enjoyable way to travel. If you're thinking about buying an e-bike, it's essential to keep several key factors in mind to ensure your e-bike is both safe and legal.

This guide will help you navigate everything from selecting the right e-bike to understanding the safety and legal implications of choosing one that isn’t compliant with the law or safety standards.

When buying an e-bike, it’s crucial to only purchase from reputable retailers like Halfords. While it can be tempting to buy a cheap e-bike, whether that be online or from a store, buying from rogue retailers increases your chances of purchasing poor quality, potentially dangerous e-bikes and e-bike parts. It’s also important to note that not all illegal e-bikes are necessarily cheap!

Reputable retailers like Halfords offer high-quality e-bikes that meet all legal and safety standards and come with guarantees for complete peace of mind.

Additionally, our in-store experts can guide you through our range, recommend accessories and discuss aftercare, ensuring you get the right e-bike for your needs.

In the UK, e-bikes (or electrically assisted pedal cycles, EAPCs) must comply with specific legal requirements. The motor must not exceed 250 watts, and the bike should not assist pedalling over 15.5 mph. E-bikes are required to be pedal assisted and not controlled by a throttle.

Perhaps one of the most significant safety concerns around electric bikes is around the lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries must comply with the EN62133-2 safety standard. Buying an e-bike that doesn’t meet regulations can put lives at risk, so it’s essential to do your research and ensure your bike is compliant. At Halfords you can be assured that are e-bikes are always fitted with fully compliant batteries.

All our e-bikes also meet the EN15194 standard which covers the safety, performance and design of e-bikes, so you can always feel confident when you buy from us.

Another key concern is around the use of non-compatible chargers for the e-bike battery, which can lead to the risk of fires. Halfords only sell clearly marked chargers compatible with the model, and do not sell or recommend the use of non-specific chargers. If you ever require a replacement charger, please ensure it is compatible with the battery and purchase from the original brand or retailer. Always maintain your e-bike battery in accordance with the instruction manual. Following the manual's storage and charging advice can help extend battery life and reduce the risk of battery fires.

It’s also important to remember that e-bike riders must be at least 14 years old, wear a helmet (not required by law but always recommended) and follow road safety rules to ensure a safe riding experience. Familiarising yourself with these regulations is essential to avoid fines or legal and potential safety issues.

For more information on looking after your e-bike, take a look at our article on E-Bike Safety Tips.

Buying a refurbished e-bike can be a cost-effective option, but it requires caution. Ensure the e-bike is from a trusted retailer and has been thoroughly inspected and tested for safety. Check for warranties and service history to avoid hidden issues. A well-refurbished e-bike can be a great investment but always prioritise quality and safety over price. One of the main causes of e-bike fires is the use of non-standard parts, including chargers, so it's important to be vigilant. Be aware that unapproved modifications, can also cause e-bikes to become unsafe. 

When you buy a refurbished e-bike from Halfords, you always know it’s quality you can trust. All our second-hand bikes have been safety checked by our expert technicians, so you know you’re in safe hands.

They’ll check the condition of all electrical components, including the battery, sensor and motor and any firmware updates are activated, and faulty parts are replaced or upgraded. Our refurbished e-bikes are pre-built, deep cleaned, ready to ride away on the same day you collect and come with a 12-month guarantee for peace of mind.

Regular servicing is key to maintaining your e-bike's performance and longevity. It’s recommended to service your e-bike every six to twelve months, depending on usage. Regular checks should include the battery, brakes, tyres, and motor to ensure everything functions properly. Keeping up with routine maintenance can also help prevent costly repairs down the line.

At Halfords, we offer a range of cycle care options with packages ranging from our bronze ‘Tune Up’ Service to our platinum ‘Major Service’.

For advice on how to care for your e-bike in between services, take a look at our article How to Maintain Your Electric Bike.

Yes, you can! The Cycle2Work scheme is a government initiative that allows employees to purchase bikes, including e-bikes, through salary sacrifice. This scheme makes it more affordable to buy an e-bike, with savings on tax and National Insurance. Check with your employer to see if they participate in the Cycle2Work program and take advantage of this cost-effective way to invest in an e-bike.

E-bikes offer numerous benefits, from reducing your carbon footprint to making commuting more enjoyable. By purchasing from a reputable retailer, staying informed about safety and legal requirements, and keeping up with regular servicing, you can enjoy a safe and smooth e-bike experience.