Police have launched a major crackdown on the illegal use of e-bikes and e-scooters in Glasgow

Police Scotland has seized 54 e-bikes and e-scooters across Glasgow during a week of targeted action.

It comes as part of a wider period of operation to crackdown on the illegal use across Scotland. The Glasgow seizures were the largest volume in the country.

A total of 99 e-bikes were seized, with 43 e-scooters also recovered during Operation Overlap which ran during the week beginning Monday, 19 October, 2026.

All of the vehicles will be destroyed.

Prior to the week of action, Police Scotland had already seen a notable increase in seizures, with more than 1,000 of these vehicles – 561 e-bikes and 441 e-scooters – recovered in 2026 up to Friday, 16 October.

Superintendent Andy Barclay, deputy head of Road Policing, said: “We know this is a growing issue across Scotland and this week of actions shows how seriously we are taking it.

“We are very clear that illegally modified e-bikes are dangerous and not suitable for the public road. They pose a risk to their own riders, the emergency services and other road users, particularly pedestrians.

“We also want to make sure that people are aware of the legislation and their personal responsibilities if using an e-bike or e-scooter

“Please be mindful of where you can and can’t use vehicles of this type and take responsibility for your own actions and the safety of other road users.”

E-bikes and e-scooters are becoming increasingly common in towns and cities across Scotland.

Most are used appropriately and in line with legal guidelines. However, some vehicles are modified to exceed speed and power limits, which can reclassify them under motorcycle legislation.

E-bikes can legally be used on public roads if they meet specific requirements, including that the motor should not be able to propel the bike when it is travelling more than 15.5mph and must have a maximum power output of 250 watts.

Vehicles that exceed these limits are motor vehicles and are subject to the Road Traffic Act, meaning the rider must hold a full UK driving license, have insurance, and wear an approved helmet. Failure to comply with these legal requirements could face enforcement action under the Road Traffic Act.

E-scooters, however, are not permitted on public roads, pavements or other public spaces, as they do not meet the necessary legal standards. Their use is only legal on private land with the landowner's consent.