TfL Announces Ban on Non-Folded E-bikes Starting March 31st

 London commuters who rely on e-bikes for their journeys will need to take note of a significant upcoming change. Transport for London (TfL) has officially announced a ban on all non-folded e-bikes across several of its key services, set to come into effect on Monday, March 31st, 2025.

This decision, announced on March 26th, 2025, follows a comprehensive review conducted in partnership with the London Fire Brigade (LFB) regarding the safety of e-bikes on the public transport network.

Which services are affected?

The ban will apply to the following TfL services:

• Tube
• Overground
• Elizabeth line
• DLR (Docklands Light Railway)

This means that from March 31st onwards, passengers will not be permitted to board these services with non-folding e-bikes. This includes standard bicycles that have been converted into e-bikes using conversion kits.

Why the ban?

TfL’s decision is primarily driven by safety concerns. Their analysis suggests that e-bikes, particularly those adapted with electronic conversion kits, pose a greater fire risk compared to purpose-built electric bicycles. Distinguishing between modified and unmodified e-bikes can be challenging, leading to the implementation of a blanket ban on all non-folded models as a precautionary measure.

What about folded e-bikes?

Interestingly, the ban does not apply to foldable e-bikes. TfL has stated that they are not aware of any fire incidents involving foldable e-bikes on their network, deeming them safer for travel on public transport. The shape and size of folding bikes are also considered less likely to be associated with the use of unregulated conversion kits.

Existing restrictions remain:

It’s important to note that non-folding bikes were already prohibited on TfL buses and trams. Additionally, all e-bikes remain banned on the IFS Cloud Cable Car.

Where can you still take non-folded e-bikes?

Due to specific safety arrangements and operational environments, non-folded e-bikes will still be permitted on the following services:

• Woolwich Ferry
• River services (subject to operator policies)
• Coach services (subject to operator policies)
• Silvertown Tunnel Cycle Shuttle Service (when it begins operation on April 7th)

Reactions and Future Steps:

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, emphasized that the safety of Londoners is the top priority. He stated that while most e-bikes are safe, a small number of incidents involving non-foldable e-bikes catching fire have caused significant concern.

The London Fire Brigade has welcomed TfL’s decision, acknowledging the known risks associated with e-bike batteries, especially those in conversion kits or modified e-bikes. They highlighted the increasing number of e-bike and e-scooter fires in London and the particular danger posed by unregulated products.

TfL has indicated that they will continue to work with the government and other partners to improve product safety measures for electronic cycles, batteries, and chargers. The ban on non-folded e-bikes will remain in place until improved safety standards are established.

What does this mean for e-bike users in London?

This new ban will undoubtedly impact many commuters who rely on non-folding e-bikes to navigate the city using public transport for part of their journey. Users will need to consider alternative options, such as using foldable e-bikes, adjusting their routes to avoid affected services, or utilizing other modes of transportation.

This move by TfL makes them the first transport operator in the UK to enforce such a ban, highlighting the growing concerns surrounding e-bike safety on public transport networks. It serves as a reminder for e-bike users to ensure their devices and charging equipment meet safety standards and are purchased from reputable sources.