The MP for Bournemouth East, is calling to ban the sale of illegal high-powered e-bikes and conversion kits that can turn standard bicycles into so-called “monster bikes” capable of speeds of up to 70mph.
The move follows a number of serious incidents in which the public have been seriously injured or killed by illegal e-bikes travelling well above the legal speed limit of 15.5mph.
Last month, a baby was born in serious condition after pregnant woman was hit by an e-bike in Poole, although it is unknown at this time if the bike was illegally modified.
Hayes said: “I’m co-sponsoring Julie Minns MP’s Monster Bikes Ban to protect constituents from high-powered, unregulated bikes that ignore safety laws. This Bill will tackle the problem at source by banning their sale, in the same way we restrict other dangerous products like knives.
“Police already have powers to seize and destroy illegal bikes, and they’re doing so in record numbers, but with more entering circulation every day, preventing their sale in the first place will reduce pressure on officers and keep people safe.”
The Bill will not affect standard, legal e-bikes. The legislation is narrowly targeted at unregulated high-powered e-bikes and conversion kits that exceed the legal 15.5mph limit.