Merseyrail has announced a ban on electronic bikes across its entire network, citing fire safety concerns. The ban takes effect from January 1, 2027, and applies to all stations, car parks, cycle storage facilities, and trains. Passengers found with banned items may face fines or enforcement under railway byelaws.
Safety Review Triggers Ban
Following a detailed safety review, Merseyrail concluded that lithium-ion battery fires, though rare, pose a serious risk in railway environments. The fast-spreading nature of such fires in tunnels, stations, and confined train carriages could have severe consequences. The review highlighted challenges in responding to battery fires on the network.
What Is Banned and What Is Allowed
The ban covers all e-bikes, including non-folding models, modified bikes, conversion kits, and detached lithium-ion batteries. E-scooters have already been prohibited since 2023. However, standard pedal bicycles, folding e-bikes, approved mobility scooters, and powered wheelchairs meeting national requirements remain permitted.
Education and Enforcement Timeline
Merseyrail will spend the remainder of 2026 focusing on education and awareness, working with passengers, schools, and colleges to ensure understanding of the new rules. From January 1, 2027, enforcement begins: passengers with banned items may be refused entry, asked to leave, or penalised under railway byelaws.
Context and Precedents
The decision aligns with actions by other transport operators. Transport for London introduced a similar ban in March 2025, becoming the first to do so. Merseyrail’s move reflects growing concerns over e-bike battery fires in public transport settings.
