How to Choose an Electric Bike (And Stay Legal in the UK)

Electric bikes are booming across the UK — and for good reason. They make commuting faster, hill climbs easier, and leisure rides more enjoyable. But with so many options on the market, it’s natural to ask: How do I choose the right electric bike? And more importantly: What are the electric bike laws in the UK?

This complete guide helps you find your perfect e-bike match while making sure you’re fully compliant with British cycling regulations.

Step 1: Know Your Needs — What Will You Use It For?

Before diving into specs, think about how and where you’ll ride. This helps narrow down the type of e-bike that suits you.

Step 2: Understand Key Electric Bike Features

Here’s what really matters when choosing your first e-bike:

🔋 Battery Capacity (Ah or Wh)

Battery size affects how far you can ride. Look for:

• 10–13Ah (360–468Wh): great for 30–60km

• 15Ah+ (540Wh+): needed for 70km+ range or heavier riders

⚙️ Motor Power & Type

In the UK, road-legal bikes must use a 250W motor. Most e-bikes use rear hub motors (affordable and reliable), but mid-drive motors offer better hill climbing and balance.

⚖️ Frame Size & Type

• Step-through frames = easy for short riders or daily commutes

• Mountain or hybrid frames = better for off-road and stability
  Always check the wheel size too (20″, 26″, 27.5″ etc.) to match your height and riding style.

🛞 Tyres

• Standard tyres: efficient on smooth roads

• Fat tyres (like on HITWAY BK5): better on rough ground and gravel

• Puncture-resistant types are ideal for urban use

🧰 Gears & Assistance Modes

Look for multiple pedal-assist levels, and at least 3–7 gears if you’ll ride hilly routes.

🛑 Brakes & Suspension

• Disc brakes offer better stopping in wet UK conditions

• Front suspension absorbs bumps and increases comfort

Step 3: Make Sure It’s Road Legal — Electric Bike Laws in the UK

Not every e-bike on the market is street-legal in the UK. Here’s what the law says about EAPCs (Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles):

✅ Legal if:

• Motor power is no more than 250W

• Motor assists only while pedalling

• Assistance cuts off at 15.5mph (25 km/h)

• Rider is aged 14 or older

• No throttle-only function (unless limited to walking assist below 6km/h)

❌ If the bike exceeds these rules (e.g. higher speed, throttle-only without pedalling), it is classed as a moped or motorcycle, requiring:

• Licence

• Helmet

• Insurance

• Registration plate

All HITWAY models sold through b2b.hitway.eu comply with UK electric bike laws and are road-legal.

Recommended HITWAY E-Bikes by Use Case

Here are a few popular, UK-compliant models for different rider needs:

🚲 HITWAY BK6 Foldable City E-Bike

• 250W motor, 36V 12Ah battery

• Lightweight & compact — perfect for city commutes

• Range: up to 70–80km
  Best for: train commuters, short daily riders

🚲 HITWAY BK5 Fat Tyre All-Terrain E-Bike

• 250W motor, 48V 15Ah battery

• 20″ fat tyres, disc brakes

• Range: up to 90km
  Best for: rough terrain, heavier riders, comfort seekers

🚲 HITWAY BK8 Trekking Hybrid E-Bike

• 26″ wheels, suspension fork

• Rear carrier, disc brakes

• Range: 60–80km
  Best for: weekend leisure rides and countryside commuting

All these models are EAPC-compliant, meaning you can ride them without insurance, tax or a licence — just like a regular bicycle.

Final Tips Before You Buy

• Test ride if possible — comfort matters

• Choose a model with a removable battery for easy charging

• Check local cycle-to-work schemes or subsidies in your council

• Look for warranty (HITWAY offers 1–2 year coverage depending on part)

In Summary:

Choosing the right electric bike is all about matching your needs to features — and ensuring you stay within UK legal limits. Whether you’re commuting, exploring, or just having fun, the right e-bike can change how you travel.

Browse HITWAY’s range of legal, reliable, and stylish e-bikes on b2b.hitway.eu — and join the electric movement with confidence.