Transport for London (TfL) has announced that all non-folded e-bikes will be banned from most of its services starting 31 March 2025, in a landmark move to prioritise passenger and staff safety. TfL becomes the first UK transport operator to introduce such a measure.
The decision follows a detailed safety review in collaboration with the London Fire Brigade (LFB), prompted by a small number of high-profile incidents where non-foldable e-bikes caught fire on the transport system. Notably, one incident at Rayners Lane Tube station in February 2025 resulted in a significant blaze and prolonged smoke disruption.
The ban will apply across the Tube, Overground, Elizabeth line, and DLR, as well as including all non-foldable e-bikes—both purpose-built and those converted with aftermarket kits. TfL’s research indicated that cycles adapted with conversion kits pose a heightened fire risk. Since it is difficult to distinguish between factory-built and converted e-bikes, the ban covers all non-folding types to ensure clarity and safety.
Foldable e-bikes remain permitted on the network, with no recorded fire incidents to date. Non-folding bikes were already restricted from buses and trams, and the existing prohibition of all e-bikes on the IFS Cloud Cable Car continues. However, non-foldable e-bikes will still be allowed on the Woolwich Ferry, certain river services, coach services (subject to operator policies), and the upcoming Silvertown Tunnel Cycle Shuttle.
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, stated: “The safety of Londoners is my top priority. While most e-bikes are safe, the small number of fires involving non-foldable types is deeply concerning. This ban is a necessary step as we continue to push for better safety regulations.”
Lilli Matson, Chief Safety, Health and Environment Officer at TfL, added: “This safety ban will play a vital role in keeping our transport system safe. We are continuing to work with the Government and the London Fire Brigade to improve e-bike product safety.”
Charlie Pugsley, Deputy Commissioner at LFB, welcomed the decision, highlighting the frequency of e-bike fires—now averaging one every other day in London—and raising particular concern about cheaply made or modified battery kits bought online.
TfL’s 450 uniformed enforcement officers will monitor compliance, with potential penalties including refusal of entry, removal from the network, or prosecution carrying fines of up to £1,000.
For further information about cycle rules on the TfL network, visit: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/cycling/cycles-on-public-transport
