Electric bikes

Electric bikes have an electric motor and battery attached. The motor reduces the effort it takes to cycle – perfect for long distances or hilly rides. You will need to charge the batteries from time to time.

Electric bikes can be comfortably used for journeys up to 10 miles and 77% of car journeys are less than this distance.

You can find out more about electric bikes with the electric bike buyers guide or AtoB magazine’s review of electric bikes.

For journeys longer than 10 miles, electric scooters may be a better option.

Both electric bikes and electric scooters are far cheaper than running a car and they also help to reduce air pollution and congestion in our towns. There are no parking charges for electric bikes or scooters in Wiltshire. Electric bikes help you to get some exercise, but scooters don’t unless you choose to park further out and walk for a bit.

Shops in Wiltshire selling electric bikes

Several bike shops in Wiltshire already sell electric bikes, and others may be able to order them in for you. It’s a good idea to have a trial ride before you decide what to purchase.

C H White & Sons in Malmesbury

Custom eBikes in Bradford on Avon

Halfords in Chippenham, Trowbridge or Salisbury

Hayballs in Salisbury

Nano Electric Bikes in Marlborough – sell electric conversion kits for Bromptons and other bikes

Paul Nash Bikes in Trowbridge

Roses of Devizes in Devizes

SES Cycles in Calne

Take Charge Bikes in Bath

If you are looking for a local bike shop try The Cycling Experts.

What does the law say?

Electrically assisted bicycles are treated in law as bicycles. An electric bike must have functioning pedals and conform to normal bicycle construction. The maximum power output is 200 watts, the maximum speed is 15mph and the bike must not weigh more than 40kg. The rider must be over 14 years.

Bikes outside this specification are powered two-wheelers (electric scooters or motorbikes) which requires the rider to hold an appropriate license, wear a safety helmet, and ensure that the vehicle is taxed and has an MOT certificate. These powered two-wheelers must not be ridden on cycle paths or other routes where motorised vehicles are prohibited.