DFT consultation on increase of 250W limit to 500W

[eas2lv]

What would it take to make a legalising retrofit kit for those with ebikes which currently have illegal throttles? A second PAS disc connected to a computer which limits/delimits and varies throttle votage signal between 0V-5V depending on whether the rider is pedalling or starting from a standstill, limiting throttle assist speed to 4mph when starting off, and allowing up to 15.5mph if pedalling is detected? The Oi Copper! ThrottleMeNot!™ is invented.

Apparently Swytch GO in the EU/UK version has something like this implemented in the controller firmware. The throttle works for start assist (speed < ~4mph) or if pedalling.
Quoting from Swytch site: "in accordance with EAPC (Electric Assisted Pedal Cycles) legal regulations in the UK, European Union and other regions with similar restrictions, the pedals must be in motion for the motor to provide assistance, so it will not work to full speed when you are not pedalling in the GO generation Swytch Kits."

 

[Biker44]

746 watts?

AI Overview - Check important info. Learn more

Yes, that's correct. One horsepower (hp) is equivalent to 746 watts (W). This conversion is widely used in the measurement of power, especially when referring to engines and motors.

Explanation:

• Horsepower (hp): This is a unit of measurement for power, historically used to compare the output of steam engines to the power of horses.
• Watts (W): This is the standard unit of power in the International System of Units (SI).
• Conversion: 1 horsepower (hp) is defined as approximately 746 watts (W).

 

[lenny]

Bike TWIN 2x125W Dual Motor
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/175800826942

 

[Pedaldog]

I wouldn't be unhappy at registering a bike, I already have insurance for my stock of 18 bikes, including a couple of trikes. I'm certain that in France they allow 15mph vehicles to travel on off road cycleways. The Spartamet comes to mind.
perhaps the main point should be inclusion that doesn't amount to a large increase of road users, cycling is still a "Relaxing Pleasure" to me (Most of the time) and not being able to use the more scenic routes would mean I would be more likely to use the car/motorbike for Utility journeys.
In some ways I agree with having a "Basic" registration. A way of linking any bike with it's owner would be a positive thing. As long as it wouldn't mean having huge, Car Sized, number plates making it difficult to carry camping gear and the like.