Hastings officers have acquired an electric bicycle that was found to have undergone unauthorised modifications.

Law enforcement encountered the device on Middle Road in Ore on Monday after noting it travelled at 25 miles per hour while relying solely on throttle-based acceleration without any pedalling effort.

Road safety personnel determined that the motor output far exceeded the 250-watt maximum allowed for Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles.

The altered cycle was taken into custody by Hastings officers.

A representative for the force commented that officers continue to prioritised safe cycling and responsible electric bicycle usage, adding that any machine that has been unlawfully changed or possesses unreasonable power levels is considered not an e-bike but a motorised vehicle.

Under existing rules, a cycle qualifies as an EAPC only when it provides assistance exclusively while the rider is pedalling and ceases power delivery automatically once velocity reaches 15.5 miles per hour.

This specific electric bicycle failed to meet these criteria and consequently falls under the classification of a motorcycle under the law.

Legitimate operation of such a vehicle necessitates a current driving licence, suitable insurance protection, and formal registration, none of which the cyclist held, according to officials.

The bicycle was seized under Section 165, and the rider faces a court appearance.