Legal notice

BL Electric Vehicle Usage and Liability Disclaimer

 

Product Classification and Regulatory Compliance

 

1.1 E-Bike Series (EPAC - Electrically Power Assisted Cycles)

 

BL's electric bicycles are designed and manufactured in compliance with EU Regulation 168/2013 and EN 15194 standards, which define the legal requirements for Electrically Power Assisted Cycles (EPAC).

 

To be classified as an EPAC (legally a bicycle, not a motor vehicle) in the European Union and European Economic Area, a vehicle must meet the following criteria:

 

Maximum continuous rated power: 250 watts

 

Assistance cuts off at 25 km/h (15.5 mph)

 

Pedal-assist only (throttle-only operation is generally not permitted for road-legal EPAC classification)

 

All BL e-bikes sold in the EU/EEA are factory-configured to strictly meet these EPAC requirements, making them legally usable on public roads, bike lanes, and cycle paths without license, registration, or insurance requirements (subject to individual Member State variations).

 

1.2 Speed Pedelecs (L1e-B Class)

 

For models capable of providing assistance above 25 km/h (typically up to 45 km/h / 28 mph) and/or equipped with a throttle, these vehicles are legally classified as L1e-B (Speed Pedelec) under EU law. Such vehicles:

 

Are considered motor vehicles

 

Require type approval, registration, and a license plate

 

Require a valid moped or motorcycle license

 

Mandate the use of a helmet (required in most EU countries)

 

May not be permitted on dedicated bicycle paths

 

User responsibility: Before purchasing or operating any BL model that exceeds EPAC limits, the user must verify and comply with all national and local regulations regarding registration, licensing, insurance, and usage areas.

 

1.3 Off-Road / High-Performance Models

 

BL may offer certain models intended exclusively for off-road or closed-course use. These vehicles do not comply with EPAC or L1e-B road regulations and are strictly prohibited from public road use. Use is permitted only on private property (with owner's permission) or designated off-road trails.

 

User Responsibilities

 

As a user of any BL electric vehicle, you agree to:

 

Know and follow all applicable local, national, and EU regulations regarding e-bike classification, speed limits, age restrictions, helmet laws, and permitted riding areas.

 

Use appropriate safety equipment - at minimum a certified bicycle helmet, and for speed pedelecs, a motorcycle or moped helmet (as required by law), plus reflective clothing, lights, and mirrors where mandated.

 

Not modify the vehicle's motor controller, speed limiter, battery system, or drivetrain. Any modification that increases speed beyond legal limits or alters power output:

 

Voids the CE declaration of conformity and warranty

 

Reclassifies the vehicle as an illegal motor vehicle for road use

 

Removes liability protection from BL

 

Ride responsibly - obey traffic laws, respect pedestrians and other cyclists, avoid distracted or impaired riding, and adjust speed based on road and weather conditions.

 

Safety Warnings

 

3.1 General Riding Risks

 

All bicycles and electric bicycles carry inherent risks of falls, collisions, and serious injury or death. BL's EPAC-compliant models are designed for safe operation when used as intended, but no vehicle eliminates the consequences of reckless or negligent behavior. Riders assume all risks associated with riding.

 

3.2 Battery Safety

 

BL electric vehicles are equipped with high-quality lithium-ion batteries that meet EU safety standards and have passed relevant UN 38.3 and CE/UKCA testing. However, lithium-ion batteries can present fire, overheating, or explosion risks if mishandled.

 

To reduce risk:

 

Only use the original BL charger or a manufacturer-approved replacement.

 

Charge in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials or direct sunlight.

 

Never leave a charging battery unattended for extended periods.

 

Do not charge immediately after riding - allow the battery to cool to room temperature.

 

Discontinue use immediately if the battery shows swelling, unusual heat, odor, or physical damage.

 

Do not attempt to open, repair, or modify the battery yourself. Contact BL support or an authorized service center.

 

Liability Waiver

 

By purchasing, assembling, or operating a BL electric vehicle, you expressly acknowledge and accept all risks associated with its use, including but not limited to personal injury, property damage, or death.

 

To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law (including EU Product Liability Directive 85/374/EEC as implemented in national law), BL and its affiliates, directors, employees, distributors, and agents shall not be held liable for any claims, damages, or losses arising from:

 

Improper use, misuse, or reckless operation

 

Unauthorized modifications or tampering

 

Failure to comply with local traffic or vehicle regulations

 

Use of non-approved chargers, batteries, or parts

 

Riding in unsafe conditions or beyond the rider's skill level

 

Nothing in this waiver limits BL's liability for death or personal injury caused by proven manufacturing defects under applicable product liability laws.

 

Insurance Recommendation

 

Although EPAC-class e-bikes do not legally require insurance in most EU countries, BL strongly recommends that all riders obtain:

 

Personal accident insurance to cover medical expenses and disability

 

Third-party liability insurance (often available through household contents or private liability policies - "Privathaftpflichtversicherung" in Germany, "assurance responsabilite civile" in France, etc.) to protect against claims from others in case of an accident

 

Speed pedelec (L1e-B) users are legally required to have third-party liability insurance and vehicle registration in virtually all EU member states.

 

Updates to This Disclaimer

 

BL reserves the right to revise or update this disclaimer at any time without prior notice. Changes are effective immediately upon posting on BL's official website or distribution through authorized channels. It is the user's responsibility to review this document periodically. Continued use of any BL product after changes constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.

 

For any questions regarding compliance, safety, or this disclaimer, please contact BL customer support.