Illegal e-bikes targeted in city centre

A police operation to stop e-bikes being used illegally has been run in Lincoln city centre this week.

The clampdown was organised by the Neighbourhood Policing Team after increased complaints about the nuisance caused by riders on electrically assisted pedal cycles.

Some of the results included:

• A 44-year-old man was riding a red Saracen electric bike, which due to modifications had a speed of 34.8mph. He was reported for driving with no insurance and his bike was seized.
• A black Orbea illegal e-bike was seized from a 38-year-old man who was commuting to work when he was seen riding by CCTV. He was reported for driving otherwise in accordance with a licence and no insurance, and his e-bike was seized
• A black illegal electric scooter was seized from a 19-year-old man who was seen riding by police in pedestrianised area of Lincoln City Centre. He was stopped and reported for driving otherwise in accordance with a licence and no insurance, and his scooter was seized.
• A 34-year-old man was identified by CCTV to be riding an e-bike on Wigford Way and Swanpool Court. He was reported for driving otherwise in accordance with a license and for no insurance, and his e-bike was seized. 

The operation was conducted as part of a national Neighbourhood Policing Week, which is running to Sunday, June 29.

“The rules around e-bikes are a tricky area to understand, but it is important to ensure everyone – particularly parents and carers – know and follow the current rules and regulations at Riding an electric bike: the rules - GOV.UK,” said a spokesman.

“Watch our operation in the city, and hear from one of our local officers, PC Will Cawte, on the issues with illegal e-bikes.”