The Northern Beaches Highway Patrol initiated a targeted enforcement operation focusing on e-bike riders within Sydney’s northern beaches region, starting off with the bustling Manly Corso in May 2023.
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The primary objective of the operation at the Manly Corso is to enhance public awareness regarding the traffic regulations associated with e-scooters, e-bikes, and pedestrian safety.
E-bikes are gaining immense popularity and are increasingly prevalent on the roads. These bicycles, equipped with rechargeable batteries, offer electric assistance whilst pedalling, making uphill rides and everyday journeys significantly more manageable.
In NSW, there are two types of permitted e-bikes: power-assisted pedal cycles and electrically power-assisted cycles. Individuals operating these e-bikes are subject to the same safety protocols as conventional bicycle riders, which include wearing securely fitted helmets.
Although certain e-bikes can achieve speeds of up to 100 km/h, there is a speed restriction of 25 km/h for e-bikes during regular travel. E-bikes may only exceed this limit when travelling downhill.
Transport for NSW acknowledges that bicycles that meet the necessary criteria for permitted e-bikes are allowed to be used on public roads and road-related areas.
Just like regular bicycles, personal e-bikes do not require a licence, but riders utilising public or rideshare e-bikes must be at least 14 years old.
The usage of all petrol-powered bicycles is prohibited on roads and road-related areas in NSW, including footpaths, shared paths, cycle ways, and cycle paths.
This restriction encompasses bicycles with petrol-powered engines that are either attached before or after purchase, as well as those powered by other forms of internal combustion engines.
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The Northern Beaches Highway Patrol have planned to carry out this operation from May to July 2023.
Published 19-May-2023
