Can I ride an electric bike without a licence and tax ?

All your Riese & Muller e-bike questions answered

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Can I ride an electric bike without a licence and tax ?

One of the great advantages of UK legal electric bikes is they are classified in the same category as a traditional bicycle.

This allows riders of electric bikes the same great freedoms as riding a normal bike.

I used to ride a motorbike mostly off-road at the weekends. Being on a motorbike meant I was only limited to riding on some of the lanes around where I lived as you cannot take a motorbike on the bridleways. Plus it always felt like the locals did not appreciate the noise of my machine! As soon as I switched to riding an electric bike, not only was it quieter for everyone concerned, but suddenly I could access all of the bridleways on my doorstep. Wearing my bicycle helmet instead of a full motorbike helmet and protective clothes was a bonus too!

What are the rules?

To be classed as an electric bike in England, Scotland & Wales, the government says:

It must have pedals which are used to propel it.
It can have a maximum power output of 250W.
The motor should not propel the bike above 15.5mph.
It should not have a twist and go throttle.

Check out the full description on the Government website here.

In addition, users of electric bikes must be aged 14 or over.

If you and the bike you are considering can meet the restriction above, then;

You do not need a licence, and
You do not need to pay road tax.

Making sure you choose a UK legal electric bike

But be aware when buying your electric bike. Not all retailers/manufacturers sell bikes which comply with these UK regulations. Find out more in our edemo Riese & Müller UK Buyer’s guide

You don’t have to insure your bike, although you can choose to do that if you wish.

And worryingly, you also don’t have to wear a helmet. But, it’s highly recommended to do so.

There is a grey area which allows retailers to sell customers these illegal bikes, passing responsibility on to the rider.

To be sure the bike you invest your hard earned cash into is legal, buy from a reputable dealer, who can clearly demonstrate the legality of the bikes they are selling.

edemo sell the full range of Riese & Müller electric bikes in the UK. Call us on 01453 834300 or email [email protected]

We can provide friendly advice and support, to help you find the right bike and get you out on the trails!

Talk with an e-bike specialist

Talk with one of our helpful e-Bike advisors on 01453 834300 or fill out the form below with your message. We’ll be more than happy to help you in your search for your dream e-Bike.

Many people have been in the position you are now, looking for their dream bike. Be assured that once you get in touch, we will treat you with the best customer service, just like we did for them. Don’t just take our word for it, read what 202 customers say here with an average 5.0 star Google review rating.

Call one of our knowledgeable advisors on 01453 834300 or complete the form below.

Join the EDEMO e-bike community

We’re always out and about on our e-bikes, testing new models and kit or just exploring.

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Download our Riese & Müller E-BIKE buyer's guide

Richard W.

1727457083

These guys are very knowledgeable and helpful. I had a test ride and bought the right bike for me. I love it!

Morgan G.

1726128167

Just had fantastic service from AJ in Nailsworth. The ebike had lost its power socket cover. Even after prompt and clear email advice from AJ, including posting out a couple of items to try, I failed to restore the cover, I simply took the bike to AJ and he sorted the issue within 10 minutes. Furthermore corrected the brakes, saddle and update the firmware on the gear hub. At no cost. All very quick and no hassle. I particularly liked how I could park in Morrison’s car park right outside the door of the shop. So no stress getting the bike in or out of the car and into the shop.

Kevin K.

1725956590

I bought a Charger 4 Vario Automatic back in April and have since covered more than 1,350 miles. My use case was a utility bike to reduce my dependence on the car for shorter journeys.I was a keen commuting and leisure cyclist in my younger years, but I as pretty sure I wouldn’t manage all the journeys I had in mind on my old, but very good, Thorn touring bike.Most days I hitch up a trailer to the bike and take my two dogs up the hill to the local wind farm. A round trip of 12-15 miles depending on the exact route I take. The trailer weighs 9Kg, and the dogs a further 9Kg each; so a total towing weight of around 27Kg. The total climb for the ride is 250m – 275m, again depending on the exact route taken. At weekends I also do two 14-mile round trips to the church where I minister.The Charger has been a revelation in that I can do both journeys in a predictable and consistent time, regardless of how tired I am. Sometimes I put in more effort, other times I let the bike help more. In practice, this means I cycle far more often than would be the case with an ordinary bike. I now go out in all weathers and positively enjoy exercising. I feel fitter and healthier as a result.I did wonder if the Enviolo hub (Vario) would have enough range for my needs, but it turns out to be perfect. If I extend my cycling to longer and more challenging routes, I may feel the need for a wider range of gears, but hopefully I’ll be fitter and stronger by then which will compensate.The automatic gear box works well. Most of the time I leave the Bosch motor in ”Auto” mode and just pedal. It is nice to be in the right gear every time. There is, however, a lack of involvement in managing the bike, which I do miss. Despite finding the Vario Automatic more than adequate for my needs, if I were buying again, I’d get the Touring or Rohloff model instead.When buying the Charger I did look briefly at the Load60 as alternative to a trailer for the dogs. I was very taken by the videos of Rufus and Alba on the EDEMO website but decided that being able to transport the bike on the car was more important. In retrospect, having used the bike and trailer extensively, I think I made a mistake. I can count on one hand the number of times I have put the bike on the car and the convenience of a single, albeit slightly longer, bike would easily outweigh the ability to transport the bike occasionally.Knowing what I now know, I would ideally have a cargo bike for dog walks and future tours, together with a lighter commuting e-bike for other trips, and perhaps a nice folding Birdy bike to take on holiday – I’ll need to start saving!The team at EDEMO were very helpful during the purchasing process, especially AJ who patiently answered all my questions. Their post-sale support has also been very good.I highly recommend EDEMO and Reiss and Muller bikes in general.

Trevor H.

1725815020

A Dream Come True:My New Nevo4 GT Touring Electric BikeI recently purchased a Nevo4 GT Touring electric bike and it has absolutely exceeded my expectations. The entire experience, from the purchase to the first ride, has been fantastic.The delivery was incredibly smooth. The staff at the dealership were friendly, knowledgeable, and took the time to explain all the bike's features. They even delivered the bike right to my doorstep, which was a huge convenience.The bike itself is a masterpiece. It's beautifully designed, comfortable to ride, and incredibly powerful. The Nevo4 GT Touring is perfect for long-distance rides, thanks to its range and comfortable saddle. I've already used it to explore the countryside and run errands, and it's been a joy every time.I was particularly impressed with the disc brakes, which provide excellent stopping power, even on steep hills. The bike also handles rough terrain with ease, gliding over cattle grids and potholes without any issues.One of my favorite features is the panniers, which are spacious and perfect for carrying groceries or other essentials. I've already used them to bring home a full week's worth of shopping, and they've been incredibly helpful.Overall, I'm absolutely thrilled with my new Nevo4 GT Touring electric bike. It's the perfect combination of style, performance, and practicality. If you're looking for a reliable and enjoyable electric bike, I highly recommend this model.

Richard S.

1724101980

My journey from just wanting a e-bike, (cheap Chinese stuff) to purchasing a Riese & Muller Super Delight from Edemo Electric Bikes has been educational. Thanks to Dan and A.J's vast knowledge and sense of humour, I have the perfect e-bike for all my adventures. It was a real pleasure from start to finish. Cheers Edemo. Richard

Steve C.

1723822048

Great service from AJ and the team. Bike rides like a dream, powerful lightweight motor for when you need it , but great range on the battery.Highly recommend bike and Edemo.

Philip R.

1719935636

Good service by internet but then I was staggered by delivery; Edemo's courier service couldn't deliver the bike (airfreight and bike battery problem) so they delivered it themselves from their Gloucestershire base to my home in Callander Scotland, the best part of 400 miles. Their Boss of Bikes, AJ arrived on time with my Homage GT Rohloff bike built and ready to go. AJ spent lots of time ensuring I understood the bike and checking all was in order before getting back in his van for the long trip back south. Exemplary service and the bike is pretty good too. Many thanks Edemo.

J M A

1719760987

We bought our Delite & Super Delite E-Bikes in march 2023, and we have not looked back...excellent bikes, never let us down, great service from Dan & co, even been back to have them serviced at Edemo..would thoroughly recommend these bikes and Edemo ;-)

Michala W.

1718399589

Bought my new electric bike off Edemo. What a brilliant service they offer, super easy & helpful - nothing to much trouble & delivered it before my holiday to Scotland - can’t wait to get some exploring. Thanks to Dan & AJ

Steven D.

1717935943

Contacted edemo for initially some advice but then purchased a battery cover and travel plate. Came back to me quickly and sorted out all of my requirements. Excellent customer service will use them in future for all my needs

michael G.

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Paul B.

1716999148

After having a traumatic experience with our local, now liquidated Riese & Muller agent, we turned to Dan and AJ at Edemo after watching some very informative YouTube videos. The experience with Edemo has been nothing but PERFECT from start to finish which included AJ delivering my Delite4 to my place of work at the other end of the country. AJ personally set the bike up and made sure everything was to my satisfaction before he left. I would STRONGLY recommend Edemo to anyone who is thinking of buying a Riese & Muller bike. Ps I am also extremely happy with the way my Delite4 performs both using it for my work appointments and for leisure rides.Paul Banning Director, Belle Vue Estates Gateshead Tyne and Wear

Nicholas M.

1715692413

Very good service from Edemo. They explained the options of the various bikes from Riese and Muller in detail. The result was I now have the bike that best suits my needs and the very mountainous place I live in on the West Coast of Scotland in the Highlands. They were also able to deliver the bike close to me which was really appreciated.

Ian D.

1715107725

Great service, very knowledgeable.

Simon M.

1714997642

A brilliant service, good price and fantastic handover and delivery. Friendly staff who guided me in the right direction for exactly what I needed. Would recommend a Edemo Bikes 100%

Efriandika P.

1713525245

I just purchased a riese and muller e-bike. It was a excellent service and great quality. It was delivered directly to us in Edinburgh. Dan and AJ are very kind to help us in every aspects. They’re also friendly and knowledgeable. We also got awesome discounts and bonus. Thanks guys.I am definitely going to purchase another bike at edemo in upcoming months.Edemo is highly recommended

David B.

1712683777

Excellent Customer service. Friendly, helpful, detailed, knowledgable and unrushed.

Nigel H.

1711837383

I recently purchased a R&M Charger 4 Mixte from Edemo and the whole process was a very enjoyable experience. A friendly and professional service from the initial test rides, through ordering and delivery; Dan and AJ certainly know their stuff. Edemo are to be highly recommended. Well done.

Jayne M.

1710773954

Incredible service from start to finish. Great drop off and advice from AJ. Thank you Edemo!

Lee H.

1709067632

Amazing service and great knowledge which was very helpful when choosing the model best suited for me. If you want a high end e-bike this is the place to go to!

John N.

1708711253

I thought staff went above and beyond to held me out with purchasing a new charger for my bike . Very impressed. Highly recommended.

Garth B.

1707138476

I purchased a bike from EDEMO and throughout every part of the process they were amazing, helping me choose a bike, letting me test all the configurations, ordering the bike and keeping me informed and at the end of this process I’ve ended up with an amazing bike that is perfect for me. AJ was particularly helpful answering my constant stream of questions about the options and bikes available and working with Riese & Müller and Enviolo to enable me to have a special custom build that met my requirements. They even offered to pop to my house to fix an issue I’d caused by me fiddling with my bikes configuration.I was initially suspicious of the all 5 star reviews but they are totally deserved and I would unreservedly recommend EDEMO for all your Riese & Müller bike needs.

Will G.

1703947907

I recently bought a Superdelite and a Homage from Edemo. The quality of the products is a good as you would expect for the price and the service from Edemo was exceptional. Riding electric bikes as capable as the Riese Muller ones is really a completely different experience. I also ride a Thorn Nomad, an excellent comfortable unpowered expedition bike - on long UK rides (50 miles+), I tend to average around 9mph. On the Riese Muller bikes on similarly long rides, I tend to average around 14 to 15 mph in much greater comfort. Going uphill is an easy enjoyable experience leaving you with plenty of energy to crack along on the flat and with very free running wheel bearings, it zips down hills which, with the full suspension, feels very comfortable and controlled even at 35 mph+. If you are thinking of an electric bike and can afford the pricing, the Riese Muller range and service provided by EDEMO are both excellent and well worth it.As one tends to write a review too soon after purchasing to have really given the bike a good thrashing, I thought I should update this one. I’ve done nearly 3,000 miles on the Superdelite now on all sorts of terrain from hillside to tarmac and have no reason to change anything I have said above. In fact, if I could only keep only one mode of transport (I currently have 3 cars, a lorry, 3 bikes and a gyro plane), the Superdelite would be it. So fill your boots, get a Superdelite Rohloff with all the extras…..

John B.

1703460496

I was looking for a very specific part and received friendly and helpful advice even though I wasn’t initially going to buy anything from them. I eventually did buy something and, as expected from a great business, they were great to deal with and everything was to my satisfaction. Highly recommended for Riese and Muller products. Thank you!

Andy

1701115539

I recently purchased a Tinker2 from Edemo online. Even though my purchase was remote the service I received was 1st class. I was offered excellent advice and guidance both before and after my purchase and shipping was really prompt. The bike arrvied set up and in perfect condition. The Tinker2 is a brilliant little bike which i have been using on my daily commute. Its superbly designed and puts a huge grin on my face. Highly recommended.

Ben O.

1700582911

Edemo bikes' customer service and attention to detail is second to none. I dealt with four different people and every one of them was courteous and helpful. My order was taken quickly and efficiently and the few questions I had, about the various options, were dealt with fast. So buying the bike was a very smooth experience. The very friendly guy who delivered it to me, explained at length how it all worked, and answered any questions that I had. It was an excellent handover experience.I went on several short rides around the block today, around a small park opposite me, where there is rarely any traffic. I just wanted to get a feel for the controls and various levels of assist. I also fine tuned the saddle and handlebar heights.All I can say about the actual bike, a Riese & Muller Nevo GT Rohloff, is that it made me feel like Superman! A road around a small nearby park is perfect for testing, because it is spread over a steep hill. I was able to get a good feel for changing the gears to cope with the different inclines, as I went around, and I was amazed how easily I was able to cycle up hill; something which will be so useful in a coastal town with steep roads everywhere. After about 10 minutes of riding, and when I felt confident enough to control it well, I actually found myself enjoying going uphill, more than going down.I have a small knee problem and was starting to struggle with my ordinary push bike, so this eBike is a godsend. From the short time that I've spent with it, I can tell that it's going to be a life changer. When pain becomes a deciding factor in riding a bike, one starts to ride less, and the difficulty I had, getting over the high bar on my push-bike, was causing me to abandon it at times. Now I'm very confident that I'll be out and about more, enjoying the lovely landscape we have here, and the fresh air.So thank you to Edemo Bikes for giving me such a pleasant experience - something I'm not generally used to, from UK companies. I hate to say it, but although we have moved on a bit, from the "Fawlty Towers" service that we once had, we still don't generally come anywhere close to other countries. In my opinion, Edemo is an exceptional UK company, with knowledgeable people and excellent customer service. What's not to recommend?

Steven I.

1697573441

Have to say EDEMO E-Bikes have been exceptional AJ in the Bristol branch was most helpful and knowledgeableI ordered a Super charger which was delivered home ahead of timeVery pleased thank you all

Mike D

1696845965

From the first telephone consultation with Dan to assist with choosing a Nevo with Nyon giving me honest advice over the new smart system. He also bettered a price match and helped with panniers, locks and supply and fit a tracker.I used the CycleScheme which was seamless with Edemo with excellent comms from Jen and AJ.Dan booked me in for an afternoon appointment for the handover which was second to none going over every aspect of the bike from operation, maintenance and setting up the tracker, downloading maps and software updates. Then arranging a delivery (a 4hr round trip) as I couldn’t actually take the bike home that day and AJ delivering it up stairs in my property.I will take my bike back for servicing etc as Edemo isn’t just a bike shop it’s an ethos to be part of their e-bike community and to be part of your investment as their knowledge, expertise and customer service is exceptional. I feel this purchase will grow into a lasting friendship with all the staff in the future.

Oliver B.

1692635112

Had a great experience with Edemo, they brought the bike to us for a demo ride, when the bike did arrive at the shop they spend 30 minutes taking me through all of the different bits of kit and functionality. Will be back in six months for my first service.

John W.

1692546766

After making the arrangements, on Sat 5th August I travelled 110 miles from Ammanford to Edemo's, Nailsworth to view a Reise & Muller Homage with Rolhoff and Gates carbon belt. I was met by AJ one of the employees. The shop was very clean and tidy and full of R&M ebikes. AJ spent the next two hours explaining the bike in detail and ensuring the bike fitted me. There was no pressure to buy but it was the ebike I wanted. Having had other ebikes previously this R&M Homage was on another level. I bought the bike. I have used the bike regularly since and I am now fully conversant with it and enjoying it much more than other ebikes I have owned. I am 80 next month so it will certainly see me out. Thankyou AJ and Edemo for a wonderful personal service. Highly recommended R&M ebike shop.

robin T.

1692358327

Top quality bikes and top quality service.The perfect combination

Mike C.

1691830853

I recently bought a new e-bike from EDEMO and I couldn’t fault any aspect of the buying process. My first contact with EDEMO was via the excellent website which answered most of my questions about e-bikes and the Riese Muller range in particular. I followed up with email and telephone questions which were answered promptly and helpfully. After that I visited the Nailsworth showroom to see the bikes, and test ride the two I was most interested in buying. The Nailsworth showroom is in a great location with free parking and some ideal roads/tracks nearby to test ride the bikes. All the staff I dealt with were friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful and the handover of my new bike was reassuringly thorough. A premium product needs premium service and that is exactly what EDEMO delivered.

Michael C.

1690052871

Having just taken delivery of a R&M Superdelite from Edemo, I’m sufficiently impressed to praise both the bike and the supplier.As anyone contemplating an R&M machine knows, they ain’t cheap. Quite the opposite in fact, they are of the highest quality of design and manufacture, and as I’m discovering, worth the price tag. My first day out on the bike in the Yorkshire Dales was a joy (in spite of the weather). Very comfortable, stable, easy to ride and managed anything my two daughters were riding on their full on MTBs. I have a little more practice to work on the gear shifts and the intricacies of the Nyon display, but overall I was delighted (oh yea) with the SuperD. Liking the seat post and side stand a lot….there are a lot of gates to open in the Dales ;-)As far as the supplier, Edemo, goes, they too deserve a shout out for excellent service. Their videos leading up to the purchase told me virtually all I needed to know, and what they didn’t, was carefully explained to me by phone; I thank them for their patience (I can be a bit nerdy on the techie stuff). I actually learnt more from their website, than from the main R&M site. Alas, there was a lost small part at delivery, but that was sent next day, so thumbs up to all the team at Edemo.Although I’ve only had the bike a week, all in all, from original enquiry to delivery of the bike, I thoroughly recommend both R&M and their excellent distributor Edemo; tip top !

Mark E.

1689887913

It took me over a year to finally purchase a new electric bike. After owning two bad examples a few years ago, I was keen to find a durable, good quality bike. Repeated internet searches finally directed me to the well made and high specification brand Riese and Muller and to the friendly and knowledgeable team at Edemo Electric Bikes. It was reassuring to learn that they are Riese and Muller riders themselves and this gave me confidence in their unhurried advice, given without any pressure to make a snap decision. Home delivery was an added bonus and I am most pleased with my purchase.

Stuart P.

1689748730

I recently decided to buy a Riese and Muller Superdelite and chose to get it from Edemo. I did so because they have produced a series of informative, inspiring and entertaining videos which helped me choose the right model and cement my decision to buy. Having made contact I found the team to be endlessly patient, accommodating and honest about everything even when it wasn't always in their best interest. I had to travel over 200 miles to buy at Edemo but it was worth it to get this level of service.

Ade H.

1689636844

HiI purchased the Novo4 GT Vario step through around three weeks ago. I am a 17 stone overweight 76-year-old, and have absolutely no problem getting around on this bike.I've managed every hill I come to, and have also managed to get double the mileage it's supposed to do. I did a 40 mile ride a couple of days ago and still add 40% of the battery left.This bike is a joy to ride, and I really enjoy getting around on it.Using the batteries auto mode, which rates the battery as being capable of doing around 25 miles. Rarely for devices that are battery powered, this bike actually underestimates the mileage the battery is capable of producing.Just turning the pedals and letting the bike to all the work, might possibly reduce the range to 25 miles in a very hilly terrain. I however, like to get some exercise in, and although I use the bike in the sense that having an electric motor makes it a lot easier to cycle than a normal bike. This bike makes every ride, a very easy ride.This is my fourth electric bike, the first two being Halford nasties, my third which lasted for the last nine years being a Kalkoff (German-made and being so reliable, it prompted me to purchase another German bike.The Reece and Muller N0V0 4, it is very comfortable ride, it has very bright lights, excellent brakes, a built-in lock on the back wheel, thick tyres, an excellent display on the handlebars and overall is very sturdily and very well made.10/10

Chris N.

1689407976

Great experience throughout the process. Definitely recommend.

david N.

1689357446

Very helpful and knowledgeable. Great high end bikes options.

ian R.

1688553612

First class customer service from the whole team at Edemo. We spent hours with Johan test riding the full range of bikes before settling on our preferred options. Communication with Jen about the purchase and delivery was first class. Delivery was exactly as promised and AJ spent time making sure we understood everything at the point of hand-over. A great experience from start to finish and I have every confidence that if I have a problem, Edemo will help sort it 👌

L G.

1688491314

Dan and Duncan could not have been more professional and knowledgable. Not once did they try a hard sell but genuinely want a customer to get a bike that’s right for them. If you’re lucky enough to find your bike at Edemo you’ll also have new Friends!

Mark C.

1688375980

If you are thinking of buying a Riese and Muller bike, the only place to get it from is EDEMO Electric Bikes. Having recently purchased an UBN Five silent, the customer service is second to none. From the initial ordering process with Jen, to AJ delivering the bike and going through the various settings making sure I was happy with everything, they really do care about their customers. The best experience I have had in buying a bike.

Alice A.

1684740087

I came across these guys as I couldn't find a stockist in Scotland who did the bike I was looking for. From the get go the staff were really helpful, I mostly dealt with Jen, they didn't bat an eyelid at my many requests and changes including delivery to central Scotland - working around my timescales. Brilliant service!

Neale B.

1683894820

Great service from choosing the correct model to delivery and tuition - all part of the service which is Platinum

Preston S.

1682507724

Lots of good advice, no pressure and plenty of opportunity to road test bikes. I was on a break in Glos and called in to EDEMO, having previously watched a number of their very useful you tube videos about Riese & Muller bikes. Two days later my chosen stock bike was prepared and paid for and a week later delivered to my address in Cumbria. Faultless. A pleasure dealing with them. The bike is great too!I would recommend.Thank you

Michael D.

1682274189

Excellent service. Dan guided me through all the choices, Jen organised the delivery and kept me updated, and AJ delivered the bike and got me set up and going. The team let me know I can come back to them anytime for any help or support I might need.

Mike R.

1681987430

I had a test ride booked and was pointed to a very steep hill to try the bike on and then a reasonably flat cycle-way to give me an idea of different riding scenarios. Enjoyable test ride. Got back to the shop and had a talk about the bikes and tried a different model. I got some very helpful advice, decided on the bike and purchased it. They delivered the bike to my home and spent some time running through all the features and adjustments I could make. Very happy with the bike and the service from Edemo.

Mike M.

1677260519

Nice shop, good selection and helpful staff, good place to buy a bike.

John H.

1675859607

It was such a pleasure to buy my bike from Edemo after years of dealing only with internet based suppliers. I used the Bristol based office/workshop and enjoyed the entirely personal service provided by AJ who also delivered my bike to me when it was ready and explained how to operate and maintain it. In particular I felt reassured that Edemo would continue to provide support during my ownership of the bike. Great service throughout!

Charlotte C.

1675791717

Dan and the team at EDEMO were super helpful in getting my new bike sorted. We found them really knowledgeable, and honest in how they helped me choose; finding something that would be exactly suited to what I needed, not just the most expensive option in the shop. The process of trying out bikes and chatting through everything was enjoyable. For me, the Riese & Muller range that they stock encompassed great options. Using only one supplier did make the process more straightforward than at other places as EDEMO could provide a wider range of options rather than just having lots of very similar bikes from different suppliers. Dan was helpful in organising what we needed so we could use the cycle-to-work scheme. The pick up process was thorough and thoughtful, making sure I had everything I needed and knew all the ins and outs of the bike.