World's fastest electric cycle to go on sale in Britain

The world's fastest electric bicycle, the A2B - capable of doing speeds of up to 20mph - is set to go on sale in Britain.

Last Updated: 12:59PM BST 13 May 2009

The new A2B electric bike was developed and patented by Ultra Motor Photo: PRNEWSWIRE
The pedal bike with an electric motor has a "rocket boost" button and riders do not require a licence.
It comes in two versions - the A2B Metro and the A2B Hybrid - but cost almost £2,000

Batteries run for up to 20 miles and are charged using a mains plug.
Riders are not required to pay road tax or insurance. In London, owners of the electric bikes are exempt from paying the congestion charge.
Ultra Motor spokesman Julie Farrington said: "It is a product people are really excited by because of its quality.
"In the past, electric bikes have been prototypes because the technology has not really been there.
"But now the technology has progressed enough to mean it is a more viable option."
The company's website says the light-weight product is a pedal-assisted electric bike which has a motor that "kicks in" to complement the rider's energy.
"The A2B Metro is a power-on-demand electric bike, a system that gives you the choice - pedal power or power on demand acceleration," it states.
"Ideal for short trips or commuting, guarantees you arrive fresh on destination."
A Department for Transport spokesman said : "An electric motor on a bicycle must not be able to propel the machine when it is travelling at more than 15mph.
"If it does not comply to this restriction it will need to be registered, insured and is subject to Vehicle Excise Duty and so must display a tax disc.
"The rider will need an appropriate driving licence and will have to wear an approved motorcycle safety helmet."
Twenty-one million electric bikes were sold in China last year, while in Germany power-assisted bicycles are the biggest single category of bikes sold.