Stop the Merseyrail e-bike ban

Merseyrail plans to ban non-folding e-bikes across its entire network from 1 January 2027. We’re challenging the decision and calling on Merseyrail to think again

Merseyrail plans to ban non-folding electric bikes from its entire network from 1 January 2027, including trains, stations and cycle storage.

The ban would affect people across the Liverpool City Region and parts of Cheshire and Lancashire who rely on legal e-bikes to get to work, attend medical appointments, visit friends and family and stay active.

We’re challenging Merseyrail’s decision, with support from the Cyclists’ Defence Fund, because a blanket ban could have a devastating impact on people who rely on e-bikes for everyday journeys, particularly older and disabled people.

Why does the ban matter?

For many people, an e-bike isn’t simply an alternative way to travel. The electric assistance can make cycling possible for people who would struggle to use a conventional bike, helping them stay independent and connected.

Combining an e-bike with train travel can also make longer journeys possible. People told us the ban could leave them unable to get to hospital appointments, work or social activities, while others may have to drive or use taxis instead.

The ban could therefore worsen isolation, affect people’s wellbeing and put extra pressure on household finances.

Legal e-bikes bought from reputable brands and sellers are safe to use. We believe action should instead focus on tackling the fire safety risks posed by illegal and modified e-bikes, including stronger action against the sale of unsafe devices.

What has happened so far?

Merseyrail announced the ban on 14 July, citing a safety review that it has refused to share with us. We wrote to Merseyrail on 6 August to raise our concerns and asked for a meeting to discuss the wider implications of the decision.

Merseyrail refused to meet with us for six weeks, but following sustained pressure, have finally agreed to a meeting. But they still haven't disclosed their safety report and haven't answered multiple questions we've raised.

We have now escalated our concerns via a complaint to the Rail Ombudsman, supported by the Cyclists’ Defence Fund.

On 17 September, hundreds of people joined Cycling UK, Merseyside Cycling Campaign and local cycling groups for a peaceful ride to Merseyrail’s head office. More than 100 personal stories were also shared with Merseyrail, showing the real impact the ban could have on older and disabled people, commuters and families.

The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s Transport Committee has also agreed to write to Merseyrail asking it to review the decision.

Help us challenge the ban

There is still time to make your voice heard. The more people who speak out, the harder it will be for Merseyrail to ignore the impact this decision could have.

Keep up the pressure

Merseyrail has been asked to review its decision, and our formal complaint is ongoing. We’ll continue to challenge the blanket ban and make the case for a fairer approach that tackles genuine safety concerns without preventing people from using legal e-bikes.

Together, we can shunt Merseyrail back on track.

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