POLICE are urging e-bike owners to check that their bikes meet legal requirements after officers seized an electric bike in Bovey Tracey.

Officers from the Ashburton and Chudleigh Policing Team seized the bike while out on patrol on Monday evening.

Police say some electric bikes may be classed as motor vehicles if they do not have functional pedals, exceed permitted power limits or can be ridden solely using motor power.

In such cases, the vehicle may require registration and insurance, while the rider could also need a valid driving licence and an approved helmet.

Failure to meet the relevant requirements could result in the vehicle being seized, fines, penalty points or prosecution.

Under UK rules, a legal electrically assisted pedal cycle must have working pedals and a motor rated at no more than 250 watts.

Motor assistance must only be provided while the rider is pedalling and must cut out once the bike reaches 15.5mph.

Police are particularly reminding young people to check the legality of e-bikes before riding them, as some bikes marketed online may not meet the requirements for use on public roads.

Officers are encouraging anyone considering buying or riding an e-bike to check its specifications carefully and make sure it complies with the law.