Police in Nottingham have begun using new technology to help tackle the growing problem of illegal e-bikes in the city centre, as part of a wider crackdown on antisocial behaviour linked to two-wheeled vehicles.
For the first time, officers are deploying a portable dynamometer to test the top speeds of e-bikes and private e-scooters on the spot. The compact device, made by Swiss firm Wenger and funded by the Office of the Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner, allows officers to check whether a vehicle complies with UK law without needing access to specialist testing facilities.
Under current regulations, an electric motor must cut out once a bike reaches 15.5mph (25km/h) for it to be legally ridden in public spaces. Using the new device, officers place the bike or scooter onto the dynamometer and accelerate the rear wheel, with a digital display showing the maximum achievable speed. Vehicles found to exceed legal limits can be seized immediately.
The technology is being used as part of Operation Wrangel, launched in November by the City Centre Neighbourhood Policing Team. The operation targets crime and antisocial behaviour associated with illegal e-bikes, which police say have become a leading concern among city centre pedestrians.
Sergeant Dan Butler (main photo), who leads Operation Wrangel, said: ‘The reckless use of e-bikes, off road motorcycles and e-scooters are more than just a nuisance to communities, they are being used to commit serious criminal activity including drug supply, weapons offences and violence.
‘The public can expect to see various operations targeting two-wheeled vehicles over the coming months and beyond, to provide a visible presence and disrupt offenders.’
While some e-bikes are legal, they must meet the Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) regulations. These include a maximum motor output of 250 watts, pedal-assisted operation only, and clearly displayed manufacturer and power information.
E-bikes that do not meet these standards are legally classed as electric mopeds or motorcycles and require registration, insurance, a helmet and an appropriate licence.
Police also reiterated that private e-scooters remain illegal on public roads and spaces, and can only be used on private land with permission.
Between November 3rd and January 5th, officers seized 34 e-bikes in Nottingham city centre for failing to comply with the law. During the same period, 24 riders faced court proceedings for riding without a licence or insurance. In addition to enforcement, police distributed 48 education packs to raise awareness of the rules.
Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden said: ‘Overpowered e-bikes and illegal e-scooters might look like a nuisance on the surface, but in reality they are often being used to fuel serious crime and put innocent people at risk.
‘That’s why I’m happy that the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner was able to fund the purchase of this vital tool, the use of which is backed by proactive operations like Wrangel, because neighbourhood officers need the right tools to deal with what communities are seeing on their streets.
‘This new testing equipment gives officers the ability to take swift, decisive action against vehicles that are being used to intimidate residents, move drugs and avoid police.’
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