E-bikes, MPV’s and Irish Law
E-bikes, MPV’s and Irish Law
We have been contacted by a number of people following a recent case in Dublin District Court. In the case a cyclist was fined following a collision in which a pedestrian suffered a broken leg.
The case has caused some confusion about the issue of whether an e-bike is classed as a mechanically propelled vehicle (MPV) or not, and whether e-bikes now require insurance. The confusion has been increased further by a video posted online (see below).
This particular video is extremely misleading. The presenter clearly does not understand the different ways in which e-bikes are classified under Irish law. (Or possibly has chosen not to explain the difference)
Definition of E-bikes
The factors governing the definition of an e-bike are summarised on the gov.ie website See the two brief sections copied below.
E-bikes with a maximum power output of 250 W or less, a motor that cuts off once pedalling stops and has a maximum speed of 25km/hr – e-bikes that the vast majority of people use – will be treated the same as bicycles and will be permitted to use cycle lanes and bus lanes but will not be permitted for use on footpaths.
Compliant e-bikes will be treated as bicycles in terms of traffic legislation and use on public roads. They will be permitted to use cycle lanes and bus lanes, but will not be permitted to use footpaths.
To be absolutely clear there are 3 critical points. If an e-bike;
- Has a motor with a maximum power output of 250w
- Is pedal-assist only. (ie. does not have a throttle)
- Will not assist at speeds greater than 25 km/hr
Then under Irish law it is treated in the same way as a normal bicycle. It does not require insurance and is not classed as a mechanically propelled vehicle.
E-Mopeds
E-bikes that have a power output greater than 250w, have a throttle, or will assist at speeds greater than 25km/hr are classed as E-mopeds and require vehicle registration.
Dublin District Court Case
With regard to the case in The Dublin District Court the the barrister for the prosecution pointed out that the specifications of the e-bike in question (ENEGWE EP-” Pro Folding e-bike) made it a mechanically propelled vehicle. (The motor in this particular e-bike is a 750w motor)
The cyclist in question pleaded guilty to careless driving and was fined €250.
The fact that the motor was 750w and that the charge in this case was dangerous driving are critical – as:
The bike is legally an E-moped (L1e-A e mopeds) and therefore should have been registered as a mechanically propelled vehicle.
The charge relates to driving and could not relate to an e-bike that complied with the regulations as it would then have been classed as a bicycle.
Online Video
In the video the presenter repeatedly uses the general term “E-bike” without making any reference to the legal distinction between an e-bike and an e-moped. At no point does he clarify that the e-bike (e-moped) in this court case did not comply with the regulations.
Throughout the video the presenter regularly states that an e-bike is a mechanically propelled vehicle and therefore must have insurance. This is inaccurate and misleading.
In Conculsion
If you own an e-bike that complies with the regulations there is no need to register your bike and you do not need insurance. Under Irish law you fall into the same category as any other cyclist.
If you purchased an E-bike from Donegal E-bikes then you are cycling an e-bike that falls within the regulations.
If you hire an e-bike from Ireland by Bike the bike you will be using will comply with all regulations.
If you own an e-bike and are unsure about whether or not it complies with the regulations it is best to check with the shop where you purchased it. The chances are that if it is from a reputable bike shop it will be perfectly legal and no registration or insurance is required.
Dominic maintains the Donegal Ebikes website. He enjoys mountain biking, and previously worked as a bicycle mechanic for Ireland by Bike.