A modified e-bike has been seized by police in Truro after concerns were raised about the way it was being ridden in the city.
Members of the public reported the rider to police last week after witnessing the e-bike being used dangerously in the Tregurra area. According to officers, the rider even triggered a speed camera while travelling through the area.
Following the reports, officers from the Truro Neighbourhood Policing Team, supported by Special Constables, located the rider and issued a Section 59 warning for the antisocial use of the vehicle.
The e-bike was subsequently seized after police established it was being ridden without insurance and that the rider did not hold the appropriate licence. The seizure took place on September 3.
Inspector Dave Christophers of the Special Constabulary said illegally modified e-bikes could pose a serious risk to both riders and the public.
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He said: “E-bikes are heavy pieces of equipment and, when illegally modified to exceed the legal speed limit and ridden carelessly, they can pose a significant danger to other road users, pedestrians and the rider themselves.
“We take no pleasure in seizing e-bikes, but when they have the potential to cause serious and in some cases life-changing injuries, it is important that we take action.
“We are here to keep everyone safe, and we will continue to be out in our communities doing just that.”
Police stressed that the majority of e-bike users ride responsibly and within the law, with enforcement action focused on those who make illegal modifications or use the vehicles recklessly.
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Officers are encouraging anyone who suspects an e-bike, e-motorbike or e-scooter is being used illegally to report it.
Under current legislation, e-bikes cannot be ridden on pavements and may only be used on cycle paths or in locations where conventional pedal cycles are permitted. Legally compliant e-bikes provide electrical assistance up to a maximum speed of 15.5mph.
Residents can report concerns through the Devon and Cornwall Police website. Information can also be passed anonymously via Crimestoppers, while anyone witnessing an immediate threat to safety should call 999.
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