(header image; Rubbee UK)
The UK Government has issued some long overdue advice to e-bike conversion kit buyers and existing owners, regarding buying the kits, plus tips on re-charging. Fitting a conversion kit to a normal pedal cycle is a great way to stay active when older, or help recover from say a leg injury without overdoing it. It can be expensive investment, on top of a new road bike costing a grand. So it makes the e-powered bicycle worth insuring as a standalone asset, as most policies don’t cover bikes worth over £1500.
Some of the advice below is probably useful to insurers specialising in this field, as de-restriction, tuning up or boosting battery power on existing e-bikes is a strong indicator of risky behaviour. Exclusion T&Cs need to be carefully worded on modified e-bikes.
Here’s the govt info;
CONVERSION KITS
E-cycle conversion kits are products that turn a conventional cycle into an e-cycle. Although the concept may seem attractively affordable, the fact that the kit is retro-fitted, often by the end user, to a cycle not designed and tested for this application, means that buying a complete e-cycle is generally a safer option.
If you decide to buy an e-cycle conversion kit:
- ensure that the cycle you intend to fit it to is in good condition, able to take the additional weight and that the brakes have more than adequate stopping power
- purchase from a reputable seller and a recognised brand
- check that the kit complies with the UK e-cycle regulations and with British or European standards, by checking that it comes with a Declaration of Incorporation as ‘Partly Completed Machinery’
- be aware that if buying components such as battery packs and chargers separately, it’s impossible to be sure they are compatible and safe when used together. Incompatible battery packs and chargers can cause an extremely high fire risk
DIY e-cycle kit installations have been found to sometimes result in damage to the kit, increasing the chances of battery failure and the likelihood of a fire. Note that the person who installed the kit is liable for the product’s safety, even if they’re a private individual, so an incident could have serious financial consequences. If possible, instead have the kit installed by a professional/competent person who is properly insured for this work.
CHARGING UP
Do not charge an e-cycle or battery pack where, if a fire breaks out, it could prevent you from safely leaving your home.
Avoid storing or charging e-cycles on escape routes or in communal areas of multi-occupied buildings.
Ensure everyone is aware of an escape plan in the event of a fire.
If possible, store and charge e-cycles and battery packs in a shed or garage separate from your home.
As far as possible, do not charge batteries or store your e-cycle near combustible or flammable materials.
If you charge or store your e-cycle inside your property, ensure you install suitable fire detection. Fire services recommend heat alarms rather than smoke alarms for garages or kitchens. Ensure you have working smoke alarms in other rooms. Avoid excessively hot, cold or damp areas, especially for charging.
AVOID OVERNIGHT CHARGING
As tempting as it is to charge your bike, e-scooter or other device overnight, it always carries a risk in that any fire will emit smoke and flames whilst you are asleep. Here’s more advice from the Government site;
Use only the charger supplied with the e-cycle, or a replacement authorised by the manufacturer.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for storage, charging and maintenance of your battery pack.
Do not overcharge your battery – check the manufacturer’s instructions for charge times and unplug your charger once the battery has charged.
If it’s hot after intensive use, let the battery cool before charging it.
It’s vitally important that you charge batteries only while you’re awake and alert so that if a fire should occur you can respond quickly. Do not leave batteries on charge while you are asleep or away from the home.
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