LETTER: The dangers of illegal e-bikes and no action to counter them
From the CCTV footage released, this would appear to be one of the many illegal e-bikes favoured by the fast-food delivery riders seen scattered around the city. It is my understanding that in the UK electrically assisted bikes (pedelecs) are limited in power to 250 watts with assistance up to the speed of 15mph only and must be physically pedalled for the assistance to become active. The ubiquitous illegal bikes have no such restrictions and are capable of speeds up to 50mph via a throttle - faster than a learner motorcycle and invariably unregistered, uninsured and ridden by unlicensed masked riders.
This terrible accident was inevitable I'm afraid as long as no effort is made to remove these machines from the roads (and more importantly) the footpaths. One dark evening earlier this year I encountered a rider on one of these bikes carrying a fast-food backpack, dressed totally in black and displaying no lights or reflectors, making his way up the M3 from the Hockley junction towards Winnall. This I reported immediately to the police for his own (and others) safety.
I have heard nothing since and these bikes are still delivering fast food around Winchester[1]. Before the keyboard warriors reprimand me for criticising someone "just making a living" - had I struck him, no doubt I would have been breathalysed, had to produce my driving license, my (expensive) insurance and had to pay for the damage to my own car. Our local police are undoubtedly understaffed and overworked but in the light of this latest terrible accident surely the time has come to crack down and enforce the law before a family has to live with far worse consequences.
Bob Martin, Oliver's Battery, Winchester
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References
- ^ Winchester (www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk)