Police to destroy electric bikes and scooters seized in crackdown

More than 140 electric bikes and scooters will be destroyed after they were seized by Police Scotland during a nationwide crackdown.

Officers confiscated 99 e-bikes and 43 e-scooters during Operation Overlap, which ran between 19 and 25 October.

The largest number were confiscated in Glasgow bringing the total for the year - up to 16 October - to 1,000.

Supt Andy Barclay said illegally modified e-bikes were dangerous and not suitable for public roads.

He added: "They pose a risk to their own riders, the emergency services and other road users, particularly pedestrians.

"We also want to make sure that people are aware of the legislation and their personal responsibilities if using an e-bike or e-scooter.

"Please be mindful of where you can and can't use vehicles of this type and take responsibility for your own actions and the safety of other road users."

Police said that e-bikes and e-scooters were becoming increasingly common in towns and cities across Scotland.

Most are used appropriately and in line with legal guidelines.

However, some are modified to exceed speed and power limits, which can reclassify them under motorcycle legislation.

E-bikes can legally be used on public roads if they meet specific requirements, including that the motor should not be able to propel the bike when it is travelling more than 15.5mph.

It must also have a maximum power output of 250 watts.

Vehicles that exceed these limits are motor vehicles and are subject to the Road Traffic Act, meaning the rider must hold a full UK driving license, have insurance, and wear an approved helmet.

Failure to comply with these legal requirements could face enforcement action.

E-scooters are not permitted on public roads, pavements or other public spaces, as they do not meet the necessary legal standards.

Their use is only legal on private land with the landowner's consent.