‘DANGEROUS’ illegally-modified e-bikes have been taken off the streets of Coventry.
Police staged an operation in the city centre to tackle the problem, which they say is putting people at risk.
Officers from Coventry Police’s Gangs and Priority crime team seized five bikes and issued their riders with fines during the operation on the Burges, Broadgate and High Street.
The fastest speed recorded from one of the seized bikes was over 42 mph.
During the operation, the team spotted a wanted person who was arrested on suspicion of shop theft and burglary after a short foot chase.
Ch Supt Paul Joyce from Coventry Police said: “Dangerous e-bike use has become a major problem in the city centre – partners, businesses and pedestrians are telling us they feel it’s only a matter of time before someone is killed or seriously injured.
“We’ve been working alongside city centre businesses, including takeaways, delivery companies, the Business Improvement Districts and the city council in recent weeks.
“We’ve been out educating riders on the law and the impact dangerous riding is having on the city centre, and last week’s operation has seen us step it up a gear and take firm action against those breaking the rules.
“We’d urge anyone who rises an e-bike for work or pleasure in the city centre to make sure that their bike is legal.
“Anyone who ignores the law may well find their bike is seized and they are issued with a fine or are given a court date.”
Electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPCs) are legal to ride for people aged 14 or over. Bikes which can reach or exceed 15.5 mph, have a continuous rated power output higher than 250 watts, or do not have pedals that can propel it are illegal.
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