Warning to E-bike riders
Laurieton New South Wales Australia

Warning to e-bike riders
23/07/2008 10:24:00 AM
POLICE will issue an official warning to e-bike riders found using their vehicles on roadways.
In the wake of the NSW Supreme Court’s decision to ban the motorised, pedal assisted bikes Mid North Coast traffic supervisor Sergeant John Carrero said police would offer a warning to first time offenders before issuing the hefty infringement notice.

“People who have purchased e-bikes are, unfortunately, victims of circumstance,” Sgt Carrero said.

“It was only until the vehicles became popular and ridden on roads that it all came to a head.

“To us the bikes never fit the criteria of safety. It’s not a bike, it’s a motor vehicle and it does not comply with the Australian Road Rules. It was up to the importer to ensure the manufacturer complied with our standards before importing and selling. There is no compliance plate so it can’t be registered.

“In countries where they come from they are ridden in traffic different to Australia. In other countries and cities the bikes are ridden alongside similar vehicles and the occasional car. In Australia they are being ridden with cars and trucks going past.”

Sgt Carrero said despite being fitted with bicycle pedals, the e-bike was intended to be used like a motor bike. The pedals are situated behind the feet and this combined with the sheer weight of the bike would make it a serious challenge for people to ride without the motor.

“If you took off the motor, it would be very difficult for people to ride,” he said.

“Other bikes with electric motors fitted are designed to be propelled by human power. E bikes are not.

“We are sympathetic to people who bought these bikes in good faith and were ill-advised.

“We’ve decided, in order to educate people of the decision to ban the bikes from the roadways and footpaths, to issue a warning to anyone we see riding an e-bike and if they are stopped a second time we will issue an infringement.”

Sgt Carrero said the fine could be up to $900.

“Because it’s now classified as a motor vehicle, while unregisterable, it comes under the same laws as cars and motor bikes.”