Transport for London (TfL) has announced a ban on non-folding electric bicycles (e-bikes) across most of its public transport services, effective March 31. This decision aims to mitigate fire risks associated with e-bikes, particularly those converted from standard bicycles using aftermarket kits.
The ban encompasses services such as the London Underground, Overground, Elizabeth Line, and DLR. Only folding e-bikes will be permitted, as they are less likely to have been modified with potentially hazardous conversion kits.
This measure follows incidents where e-bikes caught fire on public transport, including one that ignited on a platform at Rayners Lane station. In response, train drivers’ unions had threatened strikes over safety concerns.
Exceptions to the ban include the Woolwich Ferry, certain river services, and the upcoming Silvertown Tunnel Cycle Shuttle Service, set to open on April 7.
TfL emphasizes that this prohibition will remain until improved safety measures are established for e-bike conversion kits, batteries, and chargers.