Leader of Operations – Luke Reynolds
Using e-bikes and e-scooters on NSW roads, shared paths, and footpaths
E-bikes and e-scooters have soared in popularity, but before you head out make sure you know the relevant road rules to keep you, and those around you safe.
E-bikes
E-bikes are subject to the same road rules as bicycles (see below). To be considered a bicycle it cannot be propelled exclusively by a motor. In Australia e-bikes must not assist pedalling past the speed of 25km/h.
Before buying an e-bike ask the retailer for evidence the e-bike is legal to be ridden on public roads and that it comes with the compliance sticker that ensures the bike is legal and that it meets Australian quality standards.
New education resource for young riders now available
Check out the new free Student Digital Bicycle Licence Scheme
Liability and insurance
In the event of an accident, ensure you or your child are covered for personal and public liability for injuries and property damage. Parents may be held responsible for their child’s behaviour.
Consider looking into bicycle insurance to protect your family against potential liability issues. Bicycle NSW provides insurance to its members.
Remember, insurance is void for illegal devices, so ensure your e-bike complies with regulations.
What are the rules for riding e-bikes?
You can find out more about e-bikes at Transport for NSW
E-scooters
Personal e-scooters cannot legally be ridden on public roads and paths in NSW, only on private property.
The NSW Government is working with some local councils to enable trails of shared e-scooters. Shared e-scooter trials are currently taking place in Kogarah, Forster-Tuncurry and Wollongong. Sutherland Shire Council is not currently taking part in the trial.
The trials are in response to the growing popularity of e-scooters and the need to safely manage their use. The trials are collecting information on demand for shared e-scooters, safety, and community sentiment. This will help inform the future of e-scooters in NSW.
You can find out more about e-scooters at Transport for NSW
Road rules for bicycles
- Only children under 16 years of age of age can ride on the footpath, and they can be accompanied by adults.
- Bicycle riders must keep to the left on footpaths and give way to pedestrians.
- Bicycles are not allowed in pedestrian malls such as Cronulla Mall (there is no riding of ANY recreational vehicles in Cronulla Mall – all riders need to dismount).
- All bicycle riders must have a bell on their bike to warn others of their approach and wear a helmet.
Road safety
Road safety is a shared responsibility. Council and police follow up where, and as appropriate with unsafe and illegal behaviour.
As individuals, we cannot change the behaviour of others. It is important whether riding, driving, or walking that we are all responsible for our own safety and the safety of others.
Courteous ways to use a shared path
Have a pleasant and fun experience by looking out for each other and following a few simple steps:
- Be the best version of you
- Always keep to your left
- Keep your wits about you
- Don’t be distracted by your phone
- Keep your animals on a short lead
- Provide space for others when passing them
- Look where you’re going and keep an easy pace
- People riding bikes should ride slowly and use their bell or voice to give pedestrians plenty of warning that they are approaching
- Hold your child’s hand
- If you need to stop, move off the path to the left
- Be visible in the dark! Use lights, reflectors, and wear reflective clothing
E-bike and e-scooter fire risk
E-bikes and e-scooters commonly contain lithium-ion batteries. These batteries pose a number of risks including explosion and fire, particularly when used in products that are not manufactured to meet the relevant Australian standards.
To reduce the risk of incidents caused by e-bike and e-scooter batteries we suggest following Fire and Rescue NSW’s list of recommendations.
Luke Reynolds, Leader of Operations