‘A real nuisance’ – Londoners have their say on the city’s e-bike boom

Wherever you go in London, e-bikes whizz past on the road or are left scattered across the pavements.

The controversial modes of transport have become a key part of life for Londoners in the capital since they were first launched in 2018.

Many people swear by them as a convenient and way to get into work, while others curse the day e-bikes were first brought in.

One thing everyone can agree on is the parking problem. Despite being given designated spots by London’s councils, bikes are often seen piled up on street corners and blocking pavements, making life difficult for disabled people and those with buggies.

But the e-bike boom appears to be far from over. Car-hailing app Bolt has announced it will launch thousands of new bicycles in London this summer.

Bolt promised it will not add to the ‘problem’ around e-bike parking, saying people who flaunt parking rules will be fined.

We asked Metro readers what they think of another company adding to London’s clogged-up pavements.

While Londoners were divided on how they feel about e-bikes in general, one thing people appeared to agree on was clamping down on illegal e-bikes.

Derek described e-bikes as a ‘blooming pain,’ while Danny called for them to be ‘banned’ as they are a ‘menace to society.’

Meanwhile, Simon argued e-bikes are ‘brilliant, more bikes, fewer cars, happier and healthier Londoners.’

Andy said: ‘They can be very useful, or a real nuisance, depending on how they’re managed.

‘There really ought to be more regulation about parking them sensibly, and not blocking the pavement. The technology and laws already exist to enforce it.’

John said: ‘They just turn into more littered junk left in all the wrong places.’

Jamie said Londoners need to ask themselves whether ‘you’d rather have an extra 20 kg 15mph e-bike on the road, or a 2,000 kg piece of heavy machinery on the road.’

Londoners are also concerned about illegally modified e-bikes. Last year, police seized a ‘death trap’ e-bike capable of travelling at 70mph.

Roberta said: ‘As long as they don’t go 45mph, as some do. Leave room for pedestrians, no problem.’

Sarah said: ‘Legal ones ridden sensibly with consideration for the road conditions, pedestrians and other road users, no problem, but many are souped-up illegal ones that go faster than they are supposed to go.

‘Hint – if the rider doesn’t need to pedal at all, they are illegal.’

Some people called for e-bikes to be licensed and riders insured, like drivers are, but others disagreed.

Ruggiero said: ‘The notion that ordinary pedal cycles should have number plates and insurance is daft. By contrast, the suggestion that hire bikes and especially illegally modified electric bikes should be identifiable is sensible.’

Londoners are also fed up with e-bikes being ridden on the pavements.

Nikki said: ‘You can’t even walk on pavement. We are now getting them left in our Emergency Entrance and all over the pavement outside our flats. They should fine riders and also they should be docked.

‘Sick to death of them. Feel sorry for blind people, disabled and people with prams. It needs to be sorted out. Can’t believe another bike company coming.’

Ryan added: ‘E-bikes are the future and until mass proper cycle lanes are built like in other nations, then the pavements and frankly anywhere will be used.’

Krzysztof said while the e-bike boom is a ‘positive trend,’ he argued that rental e-bike riders are ‘pedestrians on bikes’ rather than experienced cyclists.

‘Not cyclists. Please bear that in mind when you judge cyclists,’ he added.

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