Police in NSW are investigating an incident involving the use of illegal e-bikes, and have asked for dashcam footage from the public. Rules in NSW state that bikes with throttles must cut out at 6 km/h in public spaces, but can reach speeds up to 50 km/h without pedalling. Power-assisted bikes with motors must have a power cap of 200 watts and weigh less than 50 kilograms. Electric power-assisted bikes can have power up to 500 watts, with restrictions on speed. Petrol-powered bikes are illegal in NSW.
E-bikes are legal for use on shared paths and roads, and on footpaths for those under 16 and adults accompanying them. There are no age restrictions on riding e-bikes, but high-speed e-bikes that do not require pedalling are not compliant and cannot be used on NSW roads or paths. NSW Police are responsible for enforcing road transport offences for non-compliant e-bikes and have the power to seize any unregistered vehicle, including illegal high-powered e-bikes. Leanne Farmer, an independent councillor in Sutherland Shire Council, has raised concerns about reports of people riding fat bikes through the local shopping strip, Cronulla Mall.
Farmer has campaigned against the use of illegal e-bikes and has called for police enforcement of e-bike laws in Cronulla. She emphasizes that she is not against regular legal e-bikes and wants children to have the freedom to ride them. However, she warns that there is a risk of accidents and fatalities if action is not taken against the use of high-speed, non-compliant e-bikes. Businesses in the Cronulla Mall have expressed concerns about customers being put at risk by the illegal e-bikes. Farmer has also expressed personal experiences of being nearly wiped out in the mall and has reported the incidents to the police.
The Transport for NSW spokesperson has clarified that e-bikes that can travel at high speeds propelled by a motor without the rider having to pedal are considered non-compliant and illegal for use on NSW roads and paths. The spokesperson has highlighted the responsibility of NSW Police for enforcing road transport offences related to non-compliant e-bikes and the authority to seize illegal vehicles. The rules around e-bikes in NSW aim to ensure safety on public paths and roads by restricting the power and speed capabilities of the bikes to prevent accidents and collisions.
Overall, the issue of illegal e-bikes and the potential dangers they pose on public paths and roads in NSW have raised concerns among local authorities and residents. Efforts are being made to enforce existing laws and regulations on e-bikes, particularly in high-traffic areas like Cronulla Mall. It is crucial for users of e-bikes to adhere to the rules and restrictions in place to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of pedestrians and other road users. Education and awareness about the correct use of e-bikes are essential to promote responsible riding practices and prevent incidents that could result in harm or fatalities.
