Australia’s e-bike scene is booming, and it’s no surprise, riding an electric bike is an epic way to cruise, commute, and explore. But before you hit the road, it’s important to know the rules. Trust us, a hefty fine is the last thing you want ruining your ride.
Play It Safe, Know the Rules
E-bike laws can be a bit of a maze, and they vary from state to state. Just because your mate told you something’s legal doesn’t mean it is. At the end of the day, it’s your responsibility to make sure your ride is road-legal and you’re following the rules. “I didn’t know” won’t get you out of a fine.
Avoid the Fines
Break the rules, and you could cop:
🚲 Riding an unregistered vehicle: Up to $900
⛑️ No helmet or an unsuitable one: Up to $300
E-Bike Rules & Regulations
Pedal-Assist E-Bikes (Pedelecs)
✅ Max Motor Power: 250W (except NSW, which allows 500W)
✅ Speed Limit: Motor must cut out at 25 km/h
✅ Throttle Use: Only up to 6 km/h to help get moving
Throttle-Assist E-Bikes
✅ Max Motor Power: 200W
✅ Speed Limit: Motor must cut out at 25 km/h
What’s the Deal in NSW?
As of Feb 2023, pedal-assist e-bikes can have up to 500W motors in NSW. But throttle-assist rules haven’t changed—still 200W max.
Power Talk: Continuous vs. Peak Power
⚡ Continuous Power: What the motor can handle long-term
⚡ Peak Power: A short burst of extra power, handy for hills
Not all 250W motors are created equal—some have more peak power, giving you better performance when you need it.
Speed & Unlocking Rules
Some e-bikes have throttles that can be unlocked for off-road private property use only. When riding on public roads, the throttle must be locked to 6 km/h max.
How Fast Can E-Bikes Go?
🔹 250W Motor: Up to 30 km/h
🔹 500W Motor: Up to 40 km/h
🔹 750W Motor: Up to 50 km/h
Helmet Rules, No Exceptions
If you’re riding, you must wear a helmet that meets AS/NZS2063 standards. No excuses.
Carrying Passengers?
👶 Kids: Allowed with an approved child seat or trailer
🛵 Adults: Only if the bike is designed for it (e.g., extended seat, extra pedals)
Lights & Safety Gear
At night or in low visibility, your e-bike must have:
🔦 White front light
🔴 Red rear light
🚴♂️ Red rear reflector
License & Police Checks
No license needed for road-legal e-bikes (200W throttle-assist or 250W pedal-assist). But police can check your bike’s compliance labels—so if it’s not road-legal, don’t risk it.
General Cycling Rules
🖐️ Hand Signals: Always signal turns and stops
👯 Riding Side-by-Side: Max two riders, no more than 1.5m apart
🚌 Bus Lanes: Allowed, but you must give way to buses and trams
State-Specific Rules
Each state has its own set of rules, so check your local laws to stay in the clear:
- Queensland: Helmets required (unless medically exempt), riders must be 16+, e-bikes can use special-purpose lanes
- New South Wales: Stick to bike lanes, no riding on pedestrian paths
- Victoria: Lights must be visible from 200m, no phone use unless in a GPS holder, helmets mandatory
- Western Australia: Must follow standard cycling laws, helmet required
- Northern Territory: No specific power limits but general cycling laws apply
- South Australia: E-bikes must meet power and speed requirements, helmet use mandatory
- Tasmania: Follow standard cycling rules, helmet mandatory
Ride Smart, Ride Safe
Following the rules keeps you safe and fine-free, so you can focus on what really matters—enjoying the ride.
