Plain clothes police put brakes on careless e-bike use in Torbay

A plain clothes police operation to tackle the anti-social use of e-bikes in Torbay saw bikes seized and a number of irresponsible cyclists stopped.

E-bikes, including an e-bike and an e-scooter, were seized  following their careless use in busy pedestrianised areas.

After police received reports from local people regarding their concerns of the dangerous use of electric bikes, also known as e-bikes, a pilot operation was set up to tackle irresponsible riders.

During the operation, plain clothes police officers took to the streets to identify those breaking the law.

Inspector Rob Harvey, who headed up the operation in Torquay, said: “E-bikes aren’t a problem, but when people choose to ride them in an unsafe manner that endangers members of the public, that’s when our officers will take action.”

The day of action saw an e-bike being seized after CCTV operators covering the Pier in Torquay spotted ‘wheelies’ being carried out in busy pedestrian areas. This resulted in plain clothes officers proactively taking action to stop the cyclist. The bike had been illegally modified, meaning it could reach speeds of up to 35mph without the need to pedal. The rider also didn’t hold any insurance. The e-bike will be destroyed as a result of the illegal modifications.

Two pedal bikes were seized due to riders using them irresponsibly on a high street with heavy footfall. The bikes have been returned after advice and guidance was given to the riders’ parents.

A privately owned e-scooter was seized and will also be destroyed, after it was used illegally in a public area. Five people were given a Section 35 notice dispersal order after causing disruptive behaviour in the town. They were unable to return to the area until the following day.

Inspector Harvey said: “We’re not here to ruin anybody’s fun, but when their version of fun turns into behaviour that can cause serious injury to pedestrians, that’s when we’ll use our powers to stop it from happening and deter future offences.

“We know the concerns it causes pedestrians, especially those with young families. So this work will continue throughout the year, especially as we head into the busy summer months.”

In a message to the users of e-bikes and e-scooters, Insp Harvey added: “Whether in plain clothes or in uniform, our officers will be identifying individuals using these bikes and scooters unsafely. They’ll be taking the bikes off you, issuing warnings and where suitable, you will be dispersed from the town. In serious cases, your bike may also be destroyed.

“Please use e-bikes responsibly – keep yourself safe and others around you. They are heavy bits of kit and need to be handled with care. They can cause real injury, and in some cases, lives can be lost. Have fun, but please be safe.”

If you see e-bikes being used irresponsibly, please contact the police by calling 999. If you have any information about riders using the bikes in an unsafe manner, fill out a reporting form online: Report a crime | Devon & Cornwall Police or call 101.

The operation was carried out by the local neighbourhood police team and the Neighbourhood Support Team, with support from the Torbay Council CCTV team to identify riders.

Advice on using e-bikes and e-scooters:

E-scooters are classed as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act 1988. It's not currently possible to get insurance for privately owned e-scooters. This means it’s illegal to use them on the road or in public spaces, such as parks, street pavements, and shopping centres.

If you have an e-bike, it’s important you are aware of the rules to keep yourself and others safe. According to current Government legislation, e-bikes can be used on public roads without a licence or insurance provided that:

• They are pedal assisted, bikes are fitted with pedals that are capable of propelling the bike.
• Maximum continuous rated power of the electric motor does not exceed 250 watts.
• Electrical assistance must cut off when the vehicle reaches 15.5 mph (25 kph).
• The rider is not under 14 years of age.

If your bike does not fit these guidelines, you can only ride your e-bike on a road if it is registered, taxed and you have a valid driving licence. You must also wear a motorcycle helmet and insure your vehicle. For more information, visit GOV.uk website.