Fight against illegal e-bike tuning: Bicycle industry demands stricter rules
The European bicycle industry is planning more decisive action against tampered e-bikes. At a specialist conference in Brussels, experts discussed measures to stop the sale and use of non-compliant electric bicycles. The goal is to increase road safety for all participants.
In so-called e-bike tuning, electronic components are modified so that the bicycles' motors travel significantly faster than the law allows. In Germany, e-bikes that are classified as bicycles may provide pedal assistance up to a maximum of 25 km/h. Tampered bikes often reach significantly higher speeds, which considerably increases the risk of accidents.
The industry also warns of legal consequences for users. Anyone riding a tuned e-bike in public traffic generally loses their insurance coverage and operating permit. In addition, high fines or criminal investigations may follow, as the vehicle is classified as a motor vehicle without the appropriate registration.
To solve the problem, the industry is relying on closer cooperation with authorities and stricter technical controls. Manufacturers are already working on new software solutions intended to make it more difficult to subsequently manipulate speed limits. Retailers are also to be held more accountable to prevent the sale of tuning kits.
In conclusion, it remains clear that safety on bike paths is the top priority for the bicycle industry. With the planned measures, the industry wants to ensure that e-bikes continue to be perceived as an environmentally friendly and safe mobility solution in the future.