What are the common e-bike modifications igniting fire risk?

E-bikes and e-scooters are transforming urban transport but they also pose an alarming safety hazard. There is growing concern over the rise in fatalities, injuries and devastating fires from electric bikes and scooters. Many incidents stem from unsafe modifications, with fire services across the UK reporting that homemade or altered batteries are a major culprit.

Delivery riders are often particularly vulnerable to these risks. Financial pressures and a need for speed can push riders to modify bikes or purchase unregulated parts online. Recently, in Highgate, North London, a rider suffered severe burns when his e-bike, charged with an unregulated charger bought online, caught fire in his bedroom. 

metroSTOR is committed to raising awareness and promoting safety-first practices to address these risks. Below are the most common e-bike modifications that can increase fire hazards and put lives in danger:

• DIY conversions of standard bicycles to e-bikes using aftermarket kits, often involving unsafe batteries and components.
• Electrical system modifications to boost speed or battery life, which can overload the bike’s components.
• Incompatible chargers, which may overcharge batteries and trigger thermal runaway.
• Oversized batteries or motors installed to exceed legal speed and power limits, leading to overheating.
• Counterfeit or substandard replacement parts, especially batteries and chargers purchased from third-party sellers.

The dangers of these practices demand immediate action. Learn how you can Educate, Evaluate, and Mitigate e-mobility fire risks with metroSTOR.