City of London Police seize ‘homemade monster’ e-bike able to reach speeds exceeding 70mph

Image credit: City of London Police

City Police Cycle Team officers intervened at Bank Junction to confiscate an illegally modified e-bike that far exceeded UK legal limits for electric bicycles.

During a routine observation, PC 612 identified the e-bike, which was described as a "homemade monster" for its worrying capabilities.

The e-bike in question was tested on video reaching a top speed of 73mph without any pedalling effort from the rider, powered by an almost 2,000 watt motor.

This performance starkly contrasts with the UK's legal standards, which restrict e-bikes to a maximum speed of 15.5mph and a motor output of no more than 250 watts.

City Police Officers said: “Cycle Team were at Bank Junction this morning when PC 612 spotted this homemade monster of an illegal e-bike. Video shows top speed of 73mph with no pedalling, and it has an almost 2000 watt motor (legal limits are 15.5mph & 250w). We seized it.”