Using e-bikes that break the law or have been changed to go faster put people at risk.
We have prepared this guidance to help food businesses make sure delivery arrangements are safe, legal, and well managed. This advice applies to riders you employ directly and those working through platforms like Deliveroo, Just Eat, or Uber Eats.
Legal requirements for E-Bikes (EAPCs)
To ride an e-bike on public roads without registration or insurance, it must meet the rules for an Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC):
- Motor power output must not exceed 250W
- The motor must only provide power whilst pedalling
- Power assistance must cut out at 15.5mph (25km/h)
If an e-bike is capable of higher speeds, has been modified, or can be throttle-operated without pedalling, it may be classed as a motor vehicle. In that case, registration, insurance, type approval and a valid driving licence are required.
Your duties as a food business / employer
Under health and safety law, you must protect employees, riders, and the public from risks linked to your work.
This includes deliveries using e-bikes connected with your business.
You should therefore ensure that:
- Riders only use legal and compliant EAPC-type e-bikes
- Modified or high-speed bikes are not used for work purposes
- Riders follow safe cycling practices around your premises and the public
- Risks related to delivery activities are included in your H&S risk assessments
- Concerns about unsafe riders or vehicles are recorded and acted upon
Using third-party delivery services
You may still hold a level of responsibility for ensuring safe operation while riders are on-site and within public spaces linked to your business.
Recommended actions for food businesses
We advise that you:
- Introduce a policy requiring riders to use only legally compliant e-bikes
- Conduct visual checks of bikes where possible, and challenge unsafe use
- Provide riders with safety guidance (e.g. speed awareness, pedestrian safety)
- Report concerns about modified or unsafe bikes to delivery platforms
- Keep basic records of checks, training and any issues identified
Taking these steps helps protect customers, staff, the public, and your business from potential legal and safety risks.
Further support
For more advice, policy templates or help with risk assessments, contact the Business Support Team.
We are always here to support businesses in improving safety and compliance.