In recent years, the proliferation of modified electric bicycles, or “e-bikes,” has raised significant safety concerns across Italian urban centers. These e-bikes, often illegally enhanced to reach speeds comparable to scooters, pose risks not only to pedestrians but also to law-abiding cyclists.
In response, the Italian government has introduced a comprehensive legislative proposal aimed at curbing this issue. Embedded within the broader Law Proposal 2523, which seeks to revolutionize and promote active mobility in Italy, is a pivotal article targeting the underground market of e-bike modifications.
This legislative shift marks a significant departure from previous approaches. Rather than penalizing end-users, the proposed law focuses on dismantling the problem at its source by imposing stringent penalties on manufacturers, sellers, and installers of these illegal modification systems.
Under the current framework, individuals caught operating a modified e-bike face severe penalties, including fines amounting to thousands of euros and vehicle confiscation. The new proposal, however, intensifies the crackdown by targeting the facilitators of this illicit market.
Key Provisions of the Proposed Law
Article 8 of Law Proposal 2523, titled “Strengthening Sanctions for Non-Compliant Two-Wheeled Vehicles,” introduces three new clauses to Article 77 of the Italian Highway Code:
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Clause 3-ter: Criminalizes the manufacturing, importing, exporting, displaying, selling, renting, or offering for purchase or use any device designed to exceed the speed, engine capacity, or power limits of mopeds, motorcycles, micromobility vehicles, pedal-assisted bicycles, or motorized quadricycles, as established by current regulations. Offenders face imprisonment from one to two years and fines ranging from €15,000 to €30,000.
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Clause 3-quater: Extends the penalties to individuals who perform modifications on the aforementioned vehicles to surpass the established limits.
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Clause 3-quinquies: Mandates the confiscation of the vehicle in cases where individuals are convicted under clauses 3-ter and 3-quater.
Implications and Analysis
The proposed legislation represents a decisive move against the e-bike modification industry. By targeting the entire supply chain—from production to installation—the law aims to eliminate the root causes of the problem.
For instance, retailers who display or sell unlocking chips for e-bikes are now subject to criminal prosecution, with potential imprisonment and substantial fines. Similarly, workshops that carry out these modifications face identical penalties, effectively ending any tacit acceptance within the industry.
Moreover, the law stipulates that convicted individuals will have their vehicles permanently confiscated, serving as a powerful deterrent against engaging in or facilitating illegal modifications.
A Step Forward for Cycling Safety
This legislative initiative is a positive development for the cycling community. The surge of modified e-bikes on sidewalks and bike lanes has often been used by critics to question the safety and viability of cycling infrastructure. By targeting those who profit from illegal modifications, the law seeks to cleanse the market, protect legitimate retailers, and ensure the safety of all road users.
A Crucial Moment for Legislative Action
It’s important to note that this legislative proposal is not yet law. Article 8 is part of a broader framework within Law Proposal 2523, which aims to regulate, develop, and promote active mobility in Italy. The proposal has been formally presented to the Chamber of Deputies, but its discussion in the assembly has not yet been scheduled.
Given the widespread concerns about the dangers posed by modified e-bikes, it is imperative that political forces unite to address this issue promptly. This proposal offers a concrete and structural measure to eliminate the problem definitively. It would be a missed opportunity if such a significant initiative were to languish without action.
As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders from all sectors—government, industry, and the cycling community—must collaborate to ensure the swift passage and effective implementation of this law. Only through collective effort can we hope to restore safety and integrity to Italy’s streets and cycling culture.