Illegally modified e-bikes seized in Camborne
A standard afternoon foot patrol in Camborne quickly turned into a foot chase after e-bikes with suspected illegal modifications were spotted cruising through the town.
Officers have seized two e-bikes which could reach speeds of up to 50mph after noticing them being ridden at substantial speed through Portreath on the afternoon of Sunday 5 April.
PC James Tompson, who spotted the riders, said: “Legal e-bikes only have electrical assistance up to speeds of 15.5mph. However, the bikes we seized were more than three times as fast and powered by throttle alone, which makes them very dangerous bits of kit when being ridden on cycle paths.
“There is no joy for us when seizing e-bikes, but when they have potential to cause significant, and in some cases lifechanging injuries, it’s important that we take action.
“Our job is to keep everyone safe, that includes other road users, pedestrians and the riders themselves.
“We will continue to be out on the streets to do just that.”
An investigation into the incident is currently ongoing.
The majority of people continue to ride their e-bikes safely; it’s the minority who have made illegal modifications or use them carelessly that action is being taken against.
If members of the public suspect someone is using an e-bike, e-motorbike or e-scooter illegally, please report it to the police.
The law states e-bikes cannot be ridden on pavements and must only be ridden on cycle paths or anywhere else pedal bikes are allowed.
Further information about the legal specifications of e-bikes can be found here: What you need to know: electric bikes | Devon & Cornwall Police
Report online here: Report | Devon & Cornwall Police
If there is immediate danger, call 999.
You can also share information 100% anonymously to Crimestoppers: Independent UK charity taking crime information anonymously | Crimestoppers
Image gallery:
select image to see larger version