Nice bike though as you say the frame needs to be redesigned to move the pedals slightly forward. But the main problem is that at 500W it is classified as a moped in the UK. That requires registration, insurance and tax, no access to cycle paths and drink drive rules. However, in April 2024 the Department Of Transport have been reviewing the current legislation to increase the max power to 500W on e-bikes. The main concern is safety. Three e-bike batteries have caught fire and killed their owners. E-bike batteries are the fastest growing fire risk according to the Fire Service. Cheaper bikes are introducing cheaper and less safe batteries. And bigger batteries mean heavier bikes, so more chance of injury in collisions. E-bike manufacturer Volt, Cycling UK and the Bicycling Association are all against raising the max wattage over these safety concerns. However, the drive for Net Zero and reduced reliance on combustion engine vehicles may eventually outweigh those concerns. I would imagine the industry will introduce a Safe-To-Ride Certificate to ensure a high standard of manufacture is maintained and push out the cheap competition. The government agency looking into this is the EAPC consultation team Third Floor, Great Minster House, 33 Horseferry Rd, London SW1P 4DR.
