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Police Scotland Argyll & West Dunbartonshire

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By Bill Heaney

Local police officers have come in for criticism for their failure to clamp down on the drivers of e-bikes and scooters.

Social media has been flooded with complaints from across the country with Stuart Chandler telling Argyll and Dunbartonshire traffic police: “There doesn’t appear to be a deterrent for a minority that cut about in the unregulated high speed modified bikes.

“All in black with matching balaclavas weaving in and out of traffic, breaching just about every possible highway code. Not only do they risk their own lives they are also putting all other road users at risk.”

The police have responded by urging people to be cautious when buying electric bikes or e-scooters, as some models may not be permitted for use on public roads.

Their spokesperson said: “E-bikes and e-scooters are becoming increasingly common in towns and cities across Scotland, with most being used appropriately and in line with current legal guidelines.
“However, some vehicles are being modified to exceed speed and power limits, which can reclassify them under motorcycle legislation.
“E-bikes can legally be used on public roads if they meet specific requirements, including that the motor should not be able to propel the bike when it is travelling more than 15.5mph and must have a maximum power output of 250 watts.
“Vehicles that exceed these limits are motor vehicles and are subject to the Road Traffic Act, meaning the rider must hold a full UK driving licence, have insurance, and wear an approved helmet. Failure to comply with these legal requirements could face enforcement action under the Road Traffic Act.
“E-scooters, however, are not permitted on public roads, pavements or other public spaces, as they do not meet the necessary legal standards. Their use is only legal on private land with the landowner’s consent.
“Anyone found riding a non-compliant e-bike or e-scooter on a public road will likely have it seized by officers and removed to a contractor’s yard, with a significant cost to the owner.
“Additionally, using vehicles that do not meet legal requirements poses a serious safety risk, increasing the likelihood of injuries to both riders and other road users, particularly pedestrians.”
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The police spokesperson advised: “If you are buying an e-bike or e-scooter, please check its specifications to ensure it complies with legal requirements. If you already own one that does not meet these standards, I urge you to keep it off public roads to avoid penalties and avoid risking the safety of others.”
But Shaun Dolphin was sceptical : “If the police were genuinely concerned they could sit outside any Just Eat or Deliveroo takeaway.”
Ian Dickson said: “The city is swarming with hugely overpowered mopeds and electric motorbikes. Almost all of them are delivery riders.
“If authorities want to deal with them and the frequently dodgy driving from them, that would be a highly effective place to start.”
Paul Crossan commented: “Every time I go out along the canal with my son for him to cycle we’re always passed with someone on a electric motorbike riding at insane speeds!  Surprised more people aren’t hurt.”
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