Dangerous modified bikes reaching up to 86mph taken off the streets in summer safety operation
A MAJOR neighbourhood policing operation led by South Wales Police has resulted in 135 illegal electric bikes and scooters being seized across Cardiff over the summer.
The multi-agency operation, launched in response to community concerns and local intelligence, specifically targeted areas including Cowbridge Road East, Albany Road, and Crwys Road. Officers described the seizure of the vehicles as a significant step in making town centres safer for both residents and businesses.
Modified bikes posed serious risks
Many of the bikes had been illegally modified to exceed legal speed limits, with some capable of reaching speeds between 70mph and 86mph—despite having only the standard brakes of a pushbike. One of the most serious incidents involved a 15-year-old riding a 70mph bike with a passenger on the back.
Neighbourhood Inspector Tim Ursell said: “We’re aware of the significant danger these illegal e-bikes pose to our community, and the impact they’ve had on local businesses and residents. Throughout the eight deployments, we’ve seen a noticeable improvement in compliance, and a drop in the use of illegal or modified bikes.”
Police and council join forces
The crackdown, which received additional funding from the Police and Crime Commissioner, was carried out in partnership with Cardiff Council and Immigration Enforcement. A total of eight targeted deployments were carried out throughout August, forming part of the wider Safer Summers initiative.
All confiscated vehicles will be safely destroyed by Cardiff Council.
Arrests made during the operation
In addition to the seizures, officers made several arrests during the course of the operation. These included:
- A man arrested for possession with intent to supply Class A drugs
- A man arrested for possession of a pointed blade
Council: Bikes are a danger, not transport
Councillor Norma Mackie, Cardiff Council Cabinet Member for Waste, Street Scene & Environmental Services, said: “As a council we actively encourage cycling, but we cannot allow people to ride illegal, modified electric bikes in our parks and pedestrian areas. They are dangerous and put lives at risk.
“Some of these bikes can travel faster than 40mph, with one reaching 86mph. Yet they’re only fitted with brakes designed for standard pedal bikes. I want to thank South Wales Police and council staff for their work this summer. Our message is clear—if you use one of these illegal bikes, we will find it, confiscate it, and destroy it.”
Further action expected
Inspector Ursell confirmed that further operations will continue into autumn and winter as part of a continued drive to combat anti-social behaviour and improve public safety.
