Electric scooter modifications: What the law says, insurance implications, and where you can ride fast
We prepare electric scooters capable of exceeding 100 km/h, and we put them to the test. Therefore, we are in a position to state this clearly: on public roads, an electric scooter is not allowed to exceed 25 km/h, and tampering with the speed limiter can result in severe penalties. This guide summarizes what the law says, what this means for insurance, and where you can legally ride at higher speeds.
The essentials
- In France, an electric scooter that operates on public roads must be designed with a maximum speed of 25 km/h.
- Unlocking a vehicle to exceed this speed limit is a violation of the law, punishable under Article L317-1 of the Highway Code with a one-year prison sentence and a fine of €30,000.
- Riding with a modified or "de-restricted" vehicle is also subject to penalties, and the insurance company may refuse to cover an accident.
- Riding, whether it's at a track, in competition, or on private land, typically involves using a vehicle that is transported to the riding location.
What the law says
The Highway Code classifies electric scooters as motorized personal mobility devices (PMDs). To be used on public roads, a PMD must have a maximum speed of 25 km/h by design. This is not just a speed limit to be observed; it is a characteristic that the device itself must possess.
Derestricting
Modifying an Electric Personal Mobility Device (EDPM) to exceed its speed limit is a crime. Article L317-1 of the Highway Code punishes this offense with a one-year prison sentence and a fine of €30,000. Professionals who sell or install unlocking devices are also liable to penalties.
Riding a derestricted vehicle
Riding on public roads with an illegally modified vehicle is also subject to a fine, and may result in the vehicle being impounded and confiscated by the court. The amounts and categories of fines have changed in recent years, and proposed legislation aims to make them stricter: please check the current regulations on the Légifrance website.
Insurance
Liability insurance is mandatory for electric scooters, just like for any motorized vehicle. Riding without insurance is a violation of the law.
With a modified vehicle, the problem is twofold: the vehicle no longer conforms to the specifications declared to the insurance company, which may refuse to cover claims in the event of an accident. The driver would then be responsible for compensating the victims themselves, which can represent significant sums in the event of injuries.
The risks, beyond the law
A scooter designed for 25 km/h does not have the brakes, tires, or steering system to safely operate at 60 or 80 km/h. Increasing the speed without reviewing the entire system means you are operating with braking distances and stability designed for a different speed. That's why our preparation guides always start with brakes and steering.
Where to ride fast, legally
- On the track, during open riding days for electric scooters or motorcycles, in compliance with the track's regulations (equipment, insurance, technical inspection of the vehicle).
- In Competition: Since 2023, electric scooters have been a discipline within the French Federation of Motorcycling, with the E'trott Racing championship. Our racing team participates in it.
- On private land, closed to public traffic, with the owner's permission.
In any case, a prepared machine is transported to the riding location; it does not reach the track by road.
Workshop tip
If you want a machine for road use and a machine for track use, keep two separate machines, or two distinctly different configurations. A scooter tuned for the track has no place on public roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I derestrict my scooter if I only ride on private land?
On private land that is closed to public traffic, the Highway Code does not apply to riding. However, the vehicle should no longer be used on public roads, and the legal implications of any modifications should be verified with a legal professional. For competitions, please consult with the relevant federation.
What are the risks associated with using an unlocked electric scooter on the road?
A fine for using the vehicle, potential immobilization and confiscation of the vehicle, legal action for unauthorized modifications, and, most importantly, a refusal of warranty coverage from the insurance company in the event of an accident.
Can a scooter tuned by your workshop be ridden on the road?
Do not exceed 25 km/h. Our performance upgrades are intended for use on closed circuits and private property only.