John Rowan has watched e-bike users repeatedly run red lights, nearly knock over pedestrians, and claims one even set off a speed camera.
The St John’s resident said: “When I am walking my dog everyday, I always see people on these electric bikes and scooters that have no respect for people around them.
“I have noticed this for the last couple of years, ever since these bikes and scooters became really popular.”
PARKED: E-bikes like the ones pictured are regularly spotted around Worcester city centre (Image: Newsquest)
Mr Rowan shared his personal experiences: “Recently, I had this guy on a bike cut me up.
“When I beeped my horn at him, he turned around and gave me this obscene gesture.
“Every time that I go out, I always see one or two running through red lights and one time I saw one go so fast down Tybridge Street that it set off a speed camera.”
A spokesperson for West Mercia Police’s road safety team explained if this is possible: “Speed cameras detect movement of a solid object above a certain speed.
“In theory, if a cyclist was travelling faster than the speed limit, this would be detected.”
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Mr Rowan also shared why he thinks the danger of e-bikes should be taken more seriously: “They are frightening with the speeds they can get up to.
“I really hope it does not happen, but it seems that it is inevitable that someone is going to get badly maimed or even killed by one of these bikes at some point.”
In October, a teenager riding an e-scooter crashed into two pedestrians in a hit and run on Kleve Walk.
Mr Rowan added: “I don’t understand why the police won’t do anything about it?”
A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said: “We are aware of the issues that the use of e-bikes and e-scooters can cause.
“Worcester City SNT are already undergoing top checks across the city centre engaging with e-bikes users to remind them of their legal obligations when using the roads, including enforcement and prosecution as appropriate.
“Signage is being erected near to food outlets and other venues to remind riders of their legal obligations and we are working with Worcester City Council to ensure Public Space Protection Orders are in place to address anti-social behaviour.”
Over 150 Beryl bikes were added to the city’s streets in June (Image: Newsquest)
Whilst e-bikes are legal in the UK, there is a strict set of rules they must follow, including maximum electric assistance up to 15.5 miles per hour, a motor no larger than 250 watts, and the pedals of the e-bike must be moving for the motor to provide assistance.
The spokesperson added: “If any member of the public has a concern regarding the use of an e-bike this can be reported online at www.westmercia.police.uk or by calling 101.
“This will be recorded and dealt with as appropriate.”