June 10 14.07, Other, Gällivare

Police in Gällivare want to bring to attention that many do not follow current traffic rules regarding electric bicycles. In the past few days, two cases of illegal electric bicycles have been handled.

On Monday evening, a police patrol in Gällivare noticed a minor who had an electric bicycle with a motor effect of 2000 W. An electric bicycle is allowed to go up to 20 kilometers per hour and have an effect of 250 watts. If it has a higher effect or goes at a higher speed than that, the vehicle type changes.

– If it goes at too high a speed or has too high an effect, it is no longer a bicycle but a motor-driven vehicle that requires a driving license. Depending on the effect and maximum speed, an AM or A1 driving license is required, says Stefan Lindahl at the police in Gällivare.

The electric bicycle was seized in this case and the minor driver is now suspected of unauthorized driving. The minor's guardian is suspected of allowing unauthorized driving.

– We want to bring to the attention of guardians what it means for their children to drive these electric bicycles, both that it is a crime, but also the obvious: it is dangerous.

On Tuesday evening, a young man on an electric bicycle was stopped, also a driving license required vehicle. The man was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and narcotics and was taken for a blood test. He is now suspected of unauthorized driving, gross drunk driving and minor narcotics offense through personal use. To prevent further traffic offenses, the electric bicycle was seized.

– The police are actively working to counter the unauthorized electric bicycles in traffic. It's about the drivers', but also the other road users', safety.

The same rules as for bicycles

- Electric bicycles should be driven in the same way as other bicycles. You can ride on bike paths and to some extent also on roads for cars.
- The electric bicycle must have brakes and a bell.
- At night driving, the vehicle must have front lights, rear lights and reflectors. 
- A helmet requirement applies to those under 15. However, the recommendation is to always wear a helmet regardless of age.
- You are not allowed to transport anyone.