E-bikes cleared for NI

E Bikes

The Northern Ireland Executive has passed legislation authorising the use of electric bikes on public roads without needing registration, licensing or insurance.  

The regulations bring Northern Ireland into line with the rest of the UK, removing a barrier to e-bike uptake.   

The Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (Construction and Use) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020 defines the class of e-bike that is to be treated as not being a motor vehicle. Specifically, the cycle must be fitted with pedals that are required to propel it and be assisted by an electric motor that has a maximum power rating of 250w. The motor cannot propel the cycle when travelling more than 15.5 mph (25 km/h).  

Northern Ireland’s infrastructure minister Nichola Mallon recently announced a plan to designate a walking and cycling champion within her Department.