The differences between EAPC (e-bikes), Pedelecs, S-Pedelecs

Electric assisted bicycles come in many shapes, sizes and styles of two-wheeled machine from road bikes where at first glance you wouldn’t know it had a motor to more moped looking bicycles.

When searching for information on an e-bike the first thing you will come across are the various names by which the different styles go by. In this article, we will make this job easier for you by differentiating between the bike types, the legal requirements and what they can be used for.

In this guide we cover:

• The key differences between EAPCs, pedelecs and S-pedelecs
• How each type of e-bike works, including pedal assist vs motor-powered systems
• The legal classification of different e-bikes and how this affects usage
• The rules and regulations for riding pedelecs in the UK
• The stricter legal requirements for S-pedelecs, including licences, insurance and registration
• The practical uses of each e-bike type, from commuting to higher-speed travel
• Important considerations when buying an e-bike, including compliance with UK law
• Expert insight on the benefits of e-bikes and their growing popularity
• Your legal rights if you are involved in an accident while riding an e-bike

The differences

Although their names may be similar, which can lead to confusion, there are a few key differences between the types of e-bikes. EAPC/Pedelecs are pedal assisted with a limited output and the motor simply boosts the user’s capabilities. This is probably what you’re thinking of when it comes to traditional e-bikes for commuting.

The S in S-Pedelecs stands for ‘speed’ and these bikes are often actually classed as mopeds. They are motor vehicles and as such they follow particular rules, may be throttle-controlled and deliver power to the wheels if you’re pedalling or not. They are distinguished by their bulkier construction and because they must have a number plate.

The laws

The major difference between the two styles is how they are seen in the eyes of the law.

Pedelec:

The laws surrounding the use of pedelec bicycles is set out here EAPC standards and legal requirements – GOV.UK

EAPC/Pedelecs – pedal assist

Used commonly for commuting, casual city riding and more increasingly off-road tours and helping people to go on longer training rides, EAPC/pedelecs are by far the most popular style of e-bike. Convenient and with a huge range of models available, they offer a new type of cycling freedom to both experienced cyclists and relative newcomers.

Of course, this makes them more expensive than a regular bike in many regards and although many models are getting better at weight-shaving – removing unnecessary weight to improve the ride – as the majority of pedelecs are much heavier than a standard bike. The advantages do outweigh the disadvantages though and as previous articles have shown, the benefits stretch far beyond just you not getting sweaty on the cycle to work.

Although you do not need a license to ride an e-bike, there are still some government regulations to adhere to when owning one. In England, Scotland and Wales there are certain requirements that must be met. These include:

• Riders must be over the age of 14;
• There must be pedals to propel the bike;
• The maximum power output must not exceed 250 watts;
• The electric motor cannot assist pedalling over 15.5 mph;
• The bike must display either the power output or the manufacturer of the motor
• The bike must display the battery’s voltage or the maximum speed of the bike.

If you are purchasing an e-bike through a shop or distributor they will have these regulations engrained into them so you shouldn’t worry yourself too much. However, if you’re looking to purchase an e-bike through the internet, especially from overseas, it is vital to make sure that the bike adheres to the requirements. Remember that if the bike is not compliant then it might be classed as a moped/motor vehicle for which compulsory insurance is needed

S-Pedelec:

S-Pedelecs – motor powered

A rarer style of e-bike, S-pedelecs are more expensive and have more restrictive ownership requirements but are faster than EAPC/pedelecs. This speed is the styles main advantage, and you almost certainly get to work quicker than before. On the other hand, the need for licences and other documentation plus the weight of the bikes will be an issue for the casual rider.

Due to S-pedelecs often being classed as mopeds/motor vehicles, more stringent rules apply:

• If you have a full driver’s license you can ride one without a moped test. If not, you will need to undergo a moped course;
• S-Pedelecs require a number plate;
• Insurance is also mandatory, as is taxing and MOTs;
• The maximum continuous output of the motor must be displayed.
• Where permitted, they must use a bike lane and not the road.

An easy way to decide which bike is best for you it to head down to your local bike shop and ask about a test ride on an e-bike. No matter which style you choose, it will start by changing your rides and save you some cash and may evolve into a pursuit of exercise that changes your life and the environment around you.

Final comments and legal support

In conclusion expert cycling solicitor Nadia Kerr comments:

“E-bikes open up the possibility of pleasure cycling for many who would otherwise not be able to or not want to ride a bike. They help contribute to the effort of cycling whilst still giving the rider some movement and exercise. Ensuring you are buying what you think you are buying is key however and there are regulations to protect the rider and other road users”

With regards to legal rights in a collision on these types of bikes

Nadia says: “If you have a collision on any type of e-bike, you can make a claim if the incident was not your fault.”

If you or any of your family or friends are involved in an accident on the roads and require legal assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.