DISCLAIMER

Legal Use Disclaimer – Electric Scooters & Electric Bikes (Scotland)

Important: The information below is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and guidance can change. Riders are responsible for making sure they always comply with the law.

1) Electric Bikes (EAPCs)

  • In the UK, an electric bike is only treated as a bicycle if it qualifies as an Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC).
    To qualify, it must have pedals, the motor’s continuous rated power must not exceed 250W, and the motor must not propel the bike above 15.5 mph (25 km/h). Riders must be 14+. No licence, tax or insurance is required for an EAPC. You may ride EAPCs where normal pedal cycles are allowed (not on pavements).     GOV.UK
  • If a bike does not meet EAPC rules (for example: higher power/speed, or throttle-propelled without type approval), it is classed as a moped/motorcycle and will require registration, insurance, a valid licence and an approved motorcycle helmet. It cannot be used in cycle lanes or on cycle tracks. GOV.UK
  • Modifications (e.g., unlocking speed, controller swaps) can change the vehicle’s legal class. If you modify your bike so it no longer meets EAPC criteria, you must treat and use it as a motor vehicle. GOV.UK

2) Privately-Owned Electric Scooters

  • Privately owned e-scooters are illegal to use in public places in Scotland and the rest of Great Britain. This includes public roads, cycle lanes, pavements and parks. They may only be used on private land with the landowner’s permission. Police may issue fines, penalty points and seize vehicles used illegally. GOV.UK+1
  • Rental e-scooters: Different rules apply only within official government trial areas. Always check local authority guidance before riding a rental e-scooter on public roads/cycle lanes. GOV.UK
  • Police Scotland reiterates that privately owned e-scooters are not permitted on public roads, pavements or other public spaces; use is legal only on private land with the landowner’s consent. Police Scotland

3) Safety & Conduct (all products)

  • Riders must follow the Highway Code and local traffic regulations. Fit and use lights/reflectors and wear appropriate protective equipment.
  • Always ride considerately and within your skill level. Inspect equipment before use; stop riding immediately if you notice any fault.
  • Batteries & charging: Use only the specified charger in a well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials. Never leave batteries charging unattended. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

4) Your Responsibilities

  • It is the rider’s responsibility to ensure the product is used lawfully and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and any applicable insurance and registration requirements.
  • QUIKTECH LMITED does not accept liability for the improper or unlawful use of any product, for penalties or seizure by authorities, or for losses resulting from modifications made after sale.
  • By purchasing or hiring a product, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this notice and will check the latest official guidance before riding.

Sources (key official guidance)

  • GOV.UK – Riding an electric bike: the rules (EAPC criteria, where/when you can ride, when it’s a moped/motorcycle). GOV.UK
  • GOV.UK – Riding an electric scooter: the rules (private e-scooters illegal in public places; penalties). GOV.UK
  • GOV.UK – Using a rental e-scooter (trial areas). GOV.UK
  • Police Scotland – public statement on e-scooters: only legal on private land with landowner consent.