Electric assistance helps more people choose a bicycle for everyday journeys, but some products entering the market fail to meet requirements or are easy to modify. European Cycling Industries says the issue affects manufacturing, sales and rider safety.
The group is calling for drive systems that better resist unauthorised changes. It is preparing an industry position and guidance for market-surveillance authorities to help identify non-compliant or modified electric bicycles. These proposals are not rules that have already taken effect.
For buyers, the practical questions are who is responsible for the bicycle’s compliance and whether its drive system remains in the configuration intended by the manufacturer. The group also wants clearer information at the point of sale, especially online.