FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything from choosing the right e-bike to delivery, setup, payments, road use, returns and aftercare. If you still can't find what you need, we're always happy to help.
Choosing your e-bike
Finding the right bike, understanding range and knowing where you can ride it.
How do I choose the right e-bike?
Start with how and where you'll actually use it. Think about terrain, hills, journey length, rider height, storage, whether you need the bike to fold and how much weight you want to carry.
Our Bike Finder can help narrow down the range, or contact us if you'd prefer a human recommendation.
How far will an e-bike go on one charge?
Range varies significantly between bikes and real-world conditions. Battery size matters, but so do rider weight, hills, tyre pressure, temperature, wind, riding speed and the assistance level you use.
Manufacturer range figures should therefore be treated as estimates rather than guarantees. If range is especially important to you, contact us and we'll help you compare suitable models.
Do I need a licence to ride an e-bike?
In Great Britain, you do not need a driving licence, vehicle tax, registration or motor insurance to ride an e-bike that qualifies as an Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC). The rider must be at least 14 years old.
EAPCs have specific requirements, including limits around motor power and the speed at which electrical assistance cuts off. See our UK E-Bike Road Use Guide for the full explanation.
Are all electric bikes sold by Chilled Rides EAPCs?
No. Chilled Rides sells both EAPC-compliant electric bikes and models with additional capabilities that prevent them from being classified as standard EAPCs.
All our electric bikes are delivered with motor output restricted to 250W or less and electrical assistance limited to 15.5mph (25km/h).
However, some models can be unlocked or reconfigured to provide motor assistance above 15.5mph or throttle-only propulsion above walking speed (6km/h).
Under UK rules, an accessible higher-speed mode can prevent a bike from qualifying as an EAPC, even when delivered with restricted settings. Throttle-only operation above 6km/h also requires appropriate vehicle approval for public-road use.
This is why being delivered with restricted settings does not automatically make a bike road-legal as an ordinary bicycle.
We clearly distinguish between EAPC and non-EAPC models and encourage customers to check the road-use information on each product page.
For more information, see our UK E-Bike Road Use Guide.
What does 250W maximum continuous rated motor power actually mean?
The UK EAPC rules refer to a motor's maximum continuous rated power, not the highest power it can produce momentarily.
Continuous power describes sustained motor output. UK regulations reference a 30-minute power measurement, while the relevant bicycle standard also defines continuous output by reference to stable operating temperatures.
Peak power is different. A motor rated at 250W continuous may legitimately produce considerably more power for short periods, such as when accelerating or climbing a hill. A high torque figure or a peak output above 250W does not, by itself, make an electric bike illegal.
Rated power is the continuous output specified by the manufacturer and supported by the relevant testing methodology. It is not necessarily the absolute maximum power the motor could physically produce.
However, simply fitting a 250W label or restricting a more powerful motor through software does not automatically establish EAPC compliance. The motor's rating and the bike's overall design and capabilities must satisfy the applicable requirements.
Should I wear a helmet?
A cycle helmet is not legally required when riding a compliant EAPC in Great Britain, but we strongly recommend wearing one.
Can I use a privately owned e-scooter on public roads?
Privately owned e-scooters are not currently permitted on public roads, pavements or cycle lanes in the UK. They should only be used on private land with the landowner's permission.
Approved rental e-scooters operate under separate rules in official trial areas.
Delivery & bike setup
What to expect when your bike arrives and how to prepare for your first ride.
How long does delivery take?
Delivery to most mainland UK addresses usually takes 3–7 working days. Orders are generally processed within 1–2 working days before dispatch.
Delivery can take a little longer for made-to-order products, customisation, Pre-Built Delivery or other specialist delivery arrangements. Check the Delivery & Timing information on the relevant product page for the best estimate for that bike.
What delivery options are available?
We offer free delivery on orders over £500 to most mainland UK addresses.
Delivery arrangements vary by product and supplier. Selected bikes may also offer Pre-Built Delivery or another specialist delivery option where available.
Check the individual product page or our Delivery & Returns page for more information.
Will I need to assemble my e-bike?
It depends on the bike, brand and delivery method.
Unless otherwise stated, e-bikes are normally delivered boxed and around 80% assembled. Some final assembly, adjustment and safety checks may therefore be needed before your first ride.
This can include fitting or checking components such as the handlebars, pedals or front wheel, as well as checking brakes, gears, tyres and fasteners.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions supplied with your bike.
Do I have to use a professional mechanic to assemble my bike?
Not necessarily. Unless the product page or manufacturer's instructions specifically require professional assembly, the important thing is that any remaining assembly, adjustment and safety checks are completed correctly before you ride.
If you're comfortable carrying out the work, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. If you're not confident with any part of the setup or safety checks, we strongly recommend asking a competent bicycle mechanic or suitably trained cycle professional to help.
You can read more in our Warranty, Repairs & Aftercare Policy .
Do you offer fully built or Pre-Built Delivery?
Pre-Built Delivery is available for selected bikes and locations. Where offered, the bike is professionally prepared as part of the delivery service, reducing the amount of setup required when it reaches you.
Availability depends on the model, supplier and delivery area, so check the product page or contact us if this is especially important to you.
What should I do when my bike arrives?
Check the bike and packaging carefully when it arrives, even if you don't plan to use it immediately.
If you notice delivery damage, take clear photos or video, keep the packaging and contact us as soon as possible.
Before your first ride, follow the setup information for your particular bike and make sure any required assembly, adjustment and safety checks have been completed correctly.
Pay particular attention to items such as the handlebars and stem, pedals, wheels, tyres and tyre pressures, brakes, gears and fasteners, along with anything highlighted in the manufacturer's instructions.
Do you deliver outside mainland UK?
Delivery to Northern Ireland, Scottish Highlands, islands and other non-mainland destinations varies by product and supplier and may take longer or incur an additional charge.
We don't currently offer general international delivery. If you're unsure whether we can deliver a particular bike to your address, contact us before ordering and we'll check.
Orders, payment & Cycle to Work
Payment options, order confirmations, cancellations and cycle schemes.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit and debit cards, PayPal and Klarna, along with other payment options shown at checkout where available.
Availability of individual payment methods can depend on the order value and the payment provider's own eligibility requirements.
Can I spread the cost of my bike?
Payment and instalment options may be available depending on the product, order value and provider. Any options currently available for an online order will be shown during checkout.
Instalment and finance providers make their own eligibility and approval decisions.
Can I buy an e-bike through a Cycle to Work scheme?
Yes. Chilled Rides works with several major Cycle to Work providers. Eligible EAPC e-bikes and qualifying accessories can be purchased through these schemes, subject to your employer and scheme rules.
Visit our Cycle to Work page to see the schemes we currently support and how the process works.
Do you accept Halfords Cycle2Work?
Yes. Chilled Rides can now process approved Halfords Cycle2Work Letters of Collection for eligible EAPC e-bikes and qualifying cycling accessories. Contact us with your chosen bike and approved Letter of Collection details. Orders are processed by our team rather than through ordinary Shopify checkout.
See our Halfords Cycle2Work guide for details.
Do you offer Blue Light Card or emergency-services discounts?
We don't currently offer a separate Blue Light Card discount. However, employees whose employer offers Vivup Cycle to Work may be able to save on an eligible e-bike through salary sacrifice. Vivup provides employee benefits across NHS and other public-service and emergency-service organisations, but Cycle to Work access depends on your employer's scheme.
Check your employer's Vivup portal or HR team, then contact us for a quote. Find out more in our Vivup Cycle to Work guide.
Why haven't I received an order confirmation?
First check your junk or spam folder and make sure the email address entered at checkout was correct.
If you still can't find your confirmation, contact us with your name, postcode and approximate order time and we'll check it for you.
How do I cancel an order?
Contact us as soon as possible if you'd like to cancel. If the order hasn't yet entered dispatch, we can usually stop it more easily.
If the item has already been dispatched, it may need to go through the normal return process and return transport costs may apply depending on the circumstances.
See our Return Policy for full details.
When will my payment be taken?
The exact payment process depends on the payment method used. For some orders, payment may initially be authorised while stock or fulfilment is confirmed.
If there is a stock or fulfilment issue with your order, we'll contact you as soon as possible to explain the available options.
Returns, warranty & aftercare
What happens if you change your mind or something isn't working properly.
Can I return my order?
Yes. Our standard returns process provides a total return window of up to 28 days.
You have 14 days from receiving the item to request a return. Once the return is approved, you then have a further 14 days to send it back.
Return conditions, costs and exceptions apply, so please read our Return Policy before sending anything back.
What if my order arrives damaged?
Please inspect your order when it arrives and contact us as soon as possible if you notice damage or receive the wrong item.
Clear photographs or video of the bike, damage and packaging are very helpful. Please keep all original packaging while we assess the issue.
What should I do if my bike develops a problem?
Contact us with your order number and a clear description of what's happening. Photos, videos, error codes and mileage can often help us diagnose the issue more quickly.
Depending on the problem, we may be able to troubleshoot remotely, provide parts, arrange inspection or agree another appropriate next step.
Please contact us before arranging repairs where you expect Chilled Rides to cover the cost.
What warranty does my bike come with?
Warranty periods and coverage differ between manufacturers and components. Where available, you'll find the relevant warranty information in the Warranty & Support section on the individual product page.
Manufacturer warranties are additional to your statutory consumer rights and don't replace them.
Do I need to service my e-bike?
Yes. Like any bicycle, an e-bike contains components that wear, settle or need adjustment over time.
Unless the manufacturer recommends a different interval, we strongly recommend an initial check after around 4–6 weeks or 100–150 miles, whichever comes first, followed by servicing appropriate to your mileage and riding conditions.
Can I take the bike to my own mechanic for a warranty repair?
Please contact us first if you expect Chilled Rides to pay for the work.
We may be able to diagnose the issue remotely, send a replacement part, arrange an approved repair or authorise specific work. We can't guarantee reimbursement for repair or diagnostic costs commissioned independently without giving us a reasonable opportunity to assess the problem first.
See our Warranty, Repairs & Aftercare Policy for more detail.
Everyday ownership & safety
Charging, batteries, maintenance, travel and looking after your bike.
How do I charge my e-bike battery?
Always follow the battery and charger instructions supplied by the manufacturer and use the supplied or manufacturer-approved charger.
Charge in a dry, well-ventilated area and check the battery, charging port and charger for obvious damage before use.
Are e-bike battery fires a concern?
E-bike batteries use high-capacity lithium-ion cells and should be treated with appropriate care.
Use the correct charger, avoid modifying the battery or electrical system, don't use a visibly damaged or swollen battery, and follow the manufacturer's charging and storage instructions.
If a battery has been badly damaged, becomes unusually hot, changes shape, gives off an unusual smell or behaves abnormally, stop using it and seek advice.
Can I ride my e-bike in the rain?
Many e-bikes are designed to cope with normal outdoor riding conditions, but water resistance varies between models and no e-bike should automatically be treated as waterproof.
Follow the manufacturer's guidance, avoid unnecessary deep water or pressure washing, and dry and store the bike appropriately after wet rides.
Can I take an e-bike on a train?
Often yes, but policies vary between train operators, routes, times and bike types.
Folding bikes are frequently easier to travel with, but they are not universally exempt from every operator's restrictions. Full-size bikes may require a reservation or be restricted during busy periods.
Check the individual train operator's current cycle and e-bike policy before travelling.
How should I store my e-bike and battery?
Keep the bike and battery somewhere dry and secure and follow the manufacturer's temperature and long-term storage guidance.
If the bike won't be used for an extended period, check the manual for the recommended battery charge level and recharge interval rather than leaving the battery completely flat for a long time.
Are e-bikes safe?
A properly set up and maintained e-bike can be a safe and practical form of transport, but it still needs the same sensible approach as any bicycle.
Make sure the bike is correctly assembled, keep brakes and tyres in good condition, service it appropriately, use the battery and charger correctly and ride within your own ability and the conditions.
About Chilled Rides & support
How to reach us and what to expect when you buy online.
Do you have a showroom?
Chilled Rides currently operates online rather than from a traditional retail showroom.
This allows us to offer a much wider range of bikes than we could realistically hold in one physical shop, while still providing UK-based support before and after your purchase.
Can you help me choose between two bikes?
Absolutely. Send us the models you're considering and tell us a little about your intended use, typical journey, hills, rider height and any priorities such as weight, folding, comfort or range.
We'll help you understand the practical trade-offs rather than simply pointing you towards the most expensive option.
How can I contact Chilled Rides?
You can reach us by phone, email, live chat or through our online contact form.
Visit our Contact Us page for the latest contact details.
Can you help after I've bought the bike?
Yes. If you have a setup question, need help diagnosing a problem, need warranty support or aren't sure what to do next, contact us and we'll help work through it with you.
Our Warranty, Repairs & Aftercare Policy explains the support process in more detail.
Still have a question?
Tell us what you're looking for and we'll point you in the right direction — whether you're choosing a bike, waiting for an order or need help with one you've already bought.
Contact Chilled Rides