Boscoreale – The green and sustainable mobility revolution is facing a growing lawlessness: the invasion of e-bikes and pedal-assisted bicycles that, thanks to illegal modifications, are transformed into full-fledged high-speed scooters.
A phenomenon that endangers road safety and which led the Carabinieri to carry out a widespread operation with striking results, this time in the municipality of Boscoreale, south of Naples.
The line separating a compliant electric bicycle from a non-compliant moped is very thin, running at around 25 kilometers per hour. According to the Highway Code, exceeding this speed, or if an accelerator (throttle) is fitted that allows for traction without pedaling, the vehicle ceases to be an e-bike (maximum power 250 W) and assumes the requirements of a vehicle: registration, insurance, and a helmet.
Tightening controls: technology against illegality
The Naples Provincial Command has intensified checks throughout the area, from Vomero to Sorrento, using an exceptional partner to uncover the modifications. In Boscoreale, the operation was supported by specialized personnel from the Bari Civil Motorization Department, equipped with a technical platform that eliminates the margin of error in vehicle inspections.
The operation resulted in a significant cost: 31 e-bikes seized and 134 fines imposed, amounting to nearly €213.000.
The violations contested are among the most serious: lack of insurance coverage, driving without a helmet, and failure to register the vehicle.
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Among the vehicles stopped, many were equipped with accelerator pedals, allowing them to travel without using the pedals. Some reached speeds of nearly 80 km/h, turning into veritable electric "projectiles," out of control and without the necessary safety features. In addition to hefty fines, drivers of these non-compliant vehicles face consequences that can include criminal charges.
"Ignorance" doesn't save you: tips for legal purchasing.
Many of the stopped cyclists justified themselves by claiming complete ignorance of the legal restrictions. This excuse, however, does not exempt them from heavy fines.
To avoid legal trouble and record fines, it is essential to adhere to the following compliance requirements:
Power and SpeedThe motor must never exceed a power of 250 W and assistance must stop immediately when the speed reaches 25 km/h.
Mandatory pedalingThe engine must only activate when pedaling. The presence of a throttle grip or throttle lever is the first sign of non-compliance.
CertificationsWhen purchasing, always check that the bicycle bears the CE conformity marking and is accompanied by the CE Declaration of Conformity.
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4 November 2025 - 07:29
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3 November 2025 - 16:18
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October 2, 2025 - 10:37
Comments (1)
The article is interesting, but I find many people unaware of the laws surrounding these vehicles. The issue of speed and power for e-bikes should be clarified more clearly.