A police officer in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, apprehended a rider on an illegally modified electric bike last week with a dramatic aerial maneuver. The incident occurred after the rider evaded multiple officers attempting to stop him as he traveled through the city center.
Two plain-clothed officers were positioned to intercept the rider, and one launched himself to make contact, causing the rider and the bike to fall to the ground. A subsequent test revealed the e-bike was capable of reaching speeds of 23 mph, exceeding the legal limit of 15.5 mph.
The rider is now facing charges for failing to stop, driving without a license, and driving without insurance. Under current UK law, electric bikes with a maximum power of 250 watts and assistance limited to 15.5 mph can be ridden by individuals over 14 without a license or insurance. However, if these criteria are not met, the e-bike must be taxed and insured like a moped or motorcycle.
This incident occurs amidst a broader crackdown on illegal e-bikes. In the 12 months leading up to May 19, UK police confiscated 7,049 such devices. This represents a significant increase from the 3,858 confiscated in the preceding year. Many confiscated e-bikes have been found to be modified to travel at speeds well over the legal limit, with some reportedly exceeding 70 mph.