Electric bikes continue to grow in popularity in Australia and with increasing use comes increased scrutiny, particularly with the rise in the number of illegal & overpowered bikes on the road. Electric bike laws in Australia can be a challenge to understand. This guide will help you navigate the complexities of ebike laws and regulations so that you can make an informed decision when choosing an electric bike.
We operate in New South Wales, so this guide will primarily focus on New South Wales ebike laws, but we’ll also cover other states in less detail.
Why understanding e-bike laws is important
Understanding e-bike laws is important because not knowing the rules isn’t a valid excuse. Just like driving, it’s up to you to know the rules and requirements to prevent getting caught out with huge fines or possible licence suspension.
While it may be legal for bike shops to sell overpowered electric bikes for use on private land, it is not legal to use them on the road.
The fines for riding an illegal or overpowered electric bike on New South Wales roads can be substantial.
Like many other bike shops, we only sell road legal electric bikes and may refuse to service illegal or overpowered ebikes.
What counts as an electric bike in Australia
In Australia, an electric bike, also known as an e-bike, is a bicycle with a motor that provides assistance to the rider.
Electric Bike Classifications and Speed Limits
Power output restrictions
An electric bike must have a maximum power output of 250 watts (except in New South Wales where the maximum power output is 500 watts). An e-bike should only provide motor assistance while the rider is pedalling, also known as pedal assist.
Maximum speed limits for e-bikes in Australia
The motor must stop providing assistance once the bike reaches a speed of 25km/h
Are throttle electric bikes legal in Australia?
Electric bikes with a throttle have slightly different requirements to pedal assist e-bikes. To be considered legal, the maximum power output on a throttle powered e-bike must not exceed 200 watts. Like pedal assist e-bikes, the motor must stop providing assistance once the bike reaches 25km/h.
License and Registration Requirements
Do you need a license for an electric bike in NSW?
If the bike meets the power and speed requirements stated above, you do not require a licence to use an electric bike.
Registration requirements for e-bikes
You are not required to register your e-bike if it meets the road legal requirements.
Ebikes that are overpowered or exceed the 25km/h speed requirements are considered vehicles and require registration.
This article was last updated on December 1 2024 and regulations may have since changed. This article does not constitute legal advice & is our best interpretation of each jurisdiction's regulations. We recommend reviewing your state's laws based on information provided by the relevant state government regulatory body.