With the UK government wanting to end the production of combustion-engined motorcycles by 2035, and global warming becoming more of a pressing issue, more people are choosing to turn to electric bikes.

When the Covid-19 pandemic struck, people began making the switch to electric scooters and mopeds as a cheaper alternative for commuting in busy towns and cities. Covid-19 also saw the demand rise for delivery riders within the UK, helping to keep restaurants afloat while they were unable to have people sitting in and dining (for more on delivery riders check out our How much do delivery riders make in the UK? and delivery riders FAQ’s article!)

Electric motorcycles and scooters are an ever-growing market within the UK currently, so it is no wonder that they will be the bikes of the future!

So let’s get into it, shall we? In this article, we will be running through everything you need to know about UK law and the rules and regulations on electric motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds. 

This category of electric bikes is limited to 28mph.

Riders must be 16+, hold a provisional licence, and lastly pass Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) in order to be able to ride one of these bikes on the road.

However, if you have obtained your full drivers' licence before 2001 with AM/P stamps on it you will also be entitled to ride one of these without having to go through CBT training (although we would recommend having some form of training before hitting the roads).

This category of electric bikes exceeds speeds of 28mph. 

Which licence you need to hold is dependent on the power output of your bike. To ride any motorcycle or scooter in this category, riders must be 17 or over and have passed CBT as a minimum. 

The full requirements for each power output category are listed below:

POWER OUTPUT:	LICENCE REQUIRED:	CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENTS:
e11kW	CBT	CBT, provisional licence (17+)
11kW	A1	CBT, theory and practical (17+)
35kW	A2	CBT, theory and practical (19+)
Unrestricted	Full licence	CBT, theory and practical (24+) Held an A2 Licence for over 2 years (21+)

As we mentioned previously, CBT is an essential step in every new rider’s journey to getting on the roads on a two-wheeler. The CBT training involves a day of basic training, elements of theory, and tips on how to ride with control and safety.

A CBT (compulsory basic training) test can cost between £130 to £170, but the price can vary between training schools or depending on where you live. 

We have some really helpful blogs that can help you get prepared for your CBT, so feel free to check them out:

• 10 Things to Know Before Taking Your CBT
• What does Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) Involve? A guide to passing first time!
• Ridefree - New Online Training Getting you CBT Ready

Road Tax

You’ll be pleased to know that electric motorcycles and scooters are currently exempt from road tax, due to the fact they are no-emission vehicles. However, it is important to note you must still tax your vehicle even if you don’t have to pay through the GOV.UK website. 

Licence Plates

Licence plates on electric mopeds, scooters, and motorcycles must be displayed in the usual way.

MOT

Like any modern combustion vehicle, you must have a valid and up-to-date MOT in order to ride your bike on the roads.

It is worth mentioning that if you are unsure whether your bike is taxed and has a valid MOT, you can access this through the GOV.UK website to avoid unwanted fines and fees.

We here at Bike Matters have compiled a list of some of our electric vehicle top picks!

It is important to note that if you are thinking about investing in an electric motorcycle and scooter, the government has grants that can cut the cost. Motorcycles and scooters that fall under the £10,000 price mark (which is the current limit on the low-emissions vehicle grant) can in fact use the grant and save you a little bit of cash.

That being said, if you are unsure remember to check with your electric motorcycle dealers for full details on what discounts are possible at the time of your purchase.

For more bonuses with investing in an electric motorcycle or scooter check out our Electric Motorcycles: Is It Time to Upgrade? and Electric Motorcycles - Looking at the Bikes of the Future articles. 

From the likes of premium high-powered electric motorbikes such as Zero and Energica to some of the best smaller-capacity electric motorcycles for beginners, we have some dedicated articles to help you find the perfect electric motorcycle!

Looking for a learner-friendly electric bike for your commute? then check out our Top 10 Electric Bikes for beginners!

However, if you are wanting an electric motorcycle packed with tech and power, our Top 10 Electric Motorcycles will give you plenty of awesome choices to consider.

If you are looking for an electric moped or scooter, we have an article for you! From budget-friendly peds to premium electric maxis - make sure to check out our top 10 electric scooters and mopeds article for some of the best currently available.

Although, if you are wanting to find some of the best electric scooters for delivery riding, head over to our 8 of the Best Electric Scooters for Delivery Work article!

The answer is yes! You must have at least a minimum of third-party insurance on your motorcycle or scooter if you are using it on UK roads. If you do not have the proper insurance on your electric bike you can be fined up to £300 and can receive 6 points on your licence. 

When it comes to insuring electric vehicles, there are still many insurers that won't offer competitive rates, as they don't want that risk. Not to fear though as we here at Lexham are specialists in electric mopeds, scooters, and motorcycles. 

So if you do have your very own electric motorcycle, moped, or scooter to insure - make sure to get a electric motorcycle and moped insurance direct with Lexham!