The rise in popularity of electric bikes has led to an increasing number of people riding them in New South Wales. However, as with any new technology, it comes with a set of challenges and risks. With the introduction of new laws in 2025, understanding what makes an e-bike legal in NSW, and the rules surrounding their use, is crucial for anyone who wants to avoid fines or legal issues.
The Growing Problem of Converted E-bikes
The government has been paying close attention to the rise of converted e-bikes – those that have been modified with aftermarket batteries or motors. These modifications are often done by riders looking to enhance their bike’s performance, but it has become clear that these DIY creations pose significant risks.
One of the primary concerns is safety, particularly the increased likelihood of electrical failure and fires due to poor-quality components. In fact, just this year, there have been 77 e-bike-related fires across the state, many of which were caused by these converted models. To address these risks, the New South Wales government is cracking down on non-compliant e-bikes, particularly those with altered batteries.
The New Ban: What You Need to Know
Starting from November 1, 2025, converted e-bikes will no longer be allowed on public transport in NSW, including trains and metro services. Anyone caught trying to bring one of these bikes onto a train could face a hefty fine, ranging from $400 to as much as $1,100, details 9News.
It’s a step that the government says is necessary to protect passengers and staff from the dangers posed by these high-risk bikes. While legal e-bikes won’t be banned, the message is clear: if your bike is modified in a way that compromises its safety, it will not be allowed on public transport.
What Makes an E-bike Legal in New South Wales?
For an e-bike to be considered legal in NSW, the motor must not solely power the bike, but instead assist the rider while pedaling. The maximum power allowed for a motor is 500 watts, and the motor must stop assisting once the bike reaches a speed of 25km/h. Additionally, any batteries used must meet the safety standards outlined in the Gas and Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act 2016, which aims to reduce the risks of overheating or fire.
This crackdown on DIY e-bikes comes after multiple incidents, including two fires in Liverpool, a suburb of Sydney, that were linked to converted e-bikes. While the government has been careful not to impose a blanket ban on all e-bikes, which could affect many commuters who use them safely, the focus is on those that present a higher risk.
NSW Transport Minister John Graham has emphasized that the goal is not to limit access to e-bikes, but to make sure they are safe and reliable for everyone who uses them.
Interestingly, this move follows similar steps taken in other states. In South Australia, for example, all e-bikes and e-scooters have already been banned from public transport. And as concerns over e-bike safety continue to grow, some are calling for a more unified, national approach to regulating these vehicles.
How to Stay Safe and Legal
For now, if you’re in NSW and looking to ride your e-bike on public transport, it’s important to make sure your bike complies with the new regulations. If you’ve modified your bike with a second-hand battery or parts that don’t meet the required standards, you’ll likely face a fine, and your bike won’t make it onto the train. Stick to certified, compliant e-bikes, and you should be good to go.
In the end, this move is all about safety – ensuring that riders can continue to enjoy the benefits of e-bikes without compromising the safety of themselves or others. So, as the rules evolve, keep an eye out for any further updates, and remember that, while e-bikes are a fantastic way to get around, it’s always important to prioritize safety first.
