Amazon Under Pressure to Ban Dangerous E-Bikes From Sale

Last Updated on June 14, 2025 by Kristina

Amazon is facing fresh criticism over the sale of illegal and unsafe electric bikes. A group of UK MPs is urging the company to stop selling high-powered e-bikes and kits that turn legal models into dangerously fast machines.

A recent report by the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Cycling and Walking highlights a growing issue: gig economy couriers using modified e-bikes to deliver faster and earn more. But these bikes are breaking the law—and putting lives at risk.

E-Bikes That Break the Rules

In the UK, e-bikes must follow strict rules. They can’t go faster than 15.5 mph and must use motors limited to 250 watts. If they go faster or have more power, they’re no longer classed as bikes—they’re illegal unless properly registered and insured like mopeds.

But the MPs found e-bikes on Amazon with motors as strong as 2,000 watts, capable of speeds up to 40 mph. One listing even described such a bike as perfect for “city commutes.”

Worse still, some of these bikes come with low-quality chargers and batteries that can catch fire. One charger had an unfused plug that Amazon admitted was clearly unsafe and removed from its site.

The Gig Economy Problem

Food delivery companies like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat were also called out in the report. Many of their couriers are self-employed and paid per job. That means they often choose cheaper, faster bikes—even if those bikes break the law or pose a danger.

One courier, Shaf Hussain, explained why. He needs a bike that can last 100–150 miles a day. Most legal e-bikes don’t go that far. So riders add extra batteries or switch to modified bikes just to keep up with their work.

MPs Demand Action

The MPs are asking for several major changes:

• Ban the sale of illegal e-bikes and unsafe conversion kits
• Make delivery companies pay couriers by the hour, not per trip
• Start a scrappage scheme to get dangerous e-bikes off the roads

Amazon responded by saying safety is a top priority. They said all e-bike sellers must provide testing certificates and meet UK regulations. However, the presence of illegal products on the site raises questions about how well those rules are enforced.

The delivery companies also responded. Deliveroo said riders must follow safety rules and are removed if found breaking them. Uber Eats and Just Eat both said they provide safety guidance and support legal e-bike use.

What This Means for E-Bike Riders

For the average rider, this issue is a reminder: not all e-bikes are created equal. High speed and powerful motors might sound good, but they can be illegal—and dangerous.

If you’re buying an e-bike, especially online, make sure it meets UK standards. Look for 250W motors, a top speed of 15.5 mph, and chargers from trusted brands. And if you’re a courier, think twice before using a modified bike. It might save time, but it could cost you more in the long run.

What About Amazon in the United States?

The issue of unsafe e-bikes isn’t just a UK problem. In the U.S., especially in New York City, Amazon has also come under fire for selling dangerous e-bike batteries and chargers that fail to meet safety standards.

U.S. Lawmakers and Safety Officials Are Stepping In

In 2024, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) made it clear: Amazon is responsible for removing hazardous e-bike products—even those sold by third-party sellers. This came after a wave of house fires caused by uncertified lithium-ion batteries.

New York City has led the way with tough regulations. Under Local Law 39, only UL-certified batteries and chargers (like UL 2849) can be sold or shipped into the city. Amazon was warned and later blocked non-compliant shipments to NYC addresses after being served a cease-and-desist order.

Now, a federal ban is also in the works. Congress has added restrictions on unsafe e-bike batteries to the national budget, pushed by the rise in deadly fires.

So while Amazon U.S. has started removing dangerous listings, many still slip through—especially outside big cities like New York.

? Buying Tips and Red Flags for E-Bikes on Amazon

If you’re shopping for an e-bike online—especially from Amazon—here are some things to look out for:

✅ Buy Smart: What to Look For

• Look for UL 2849 certification (for e-bike systems) and UL 2272 (for batteries).
• Choose known brands with strong safety records and warranty support.
• Read user reviews, and check for mention of battery range, overheating, or charging issues.

❌ Red Flags to Avoid

• E-bikes with unbranded batteries or chargers.
• Listings that advertise speeds over 20 mph or motors above 750W (in the U.S., these are typically illegal for use without registration).
• Vague product descriptions with poor grammar or no mention of safety compliance.
• “Universal chargers” or listings that include multiple charging cables—these are often low quality and unsafe.

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✋ Final Note for U.S. Riders

Whether you’re in London or Los Angeles, the message is the same: don’t risk your safety for a bargain. Fires, injuries, and legal trouble aren’t worth a faster delivery route or a few bucks saved.

Always buy from trusted sources, look for proper certifications, and avoid “mod kits” or performance upgrades unless they meet legal and safety standards.

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