FAQ

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Frequently Asked Questions

No, you don’t need a licence to ride e-bike.

There are two key points to consider for e-bike speed limits in Australia:

  • Road use: E-bikes classified for road use are limited to a maximum assisted speed of 25 km/h throughout Australia. This applies regardless of the motor wattage (within legal limits) or throttle presence.
  • Off-road use: There are no specific speed restrictions for e-bikes on private property or designated off-road areas. However, be mindful of safety and follow any signage or regulations established by the land manager.

Important Note: Even on private property or off-road trails, it’s crucial to prioritise safety. Choose an e-bike with appropriate features for off-road riding (e.g., sturdy frame, suspension) and adjust your speed according to terrain and your skill level.

E-bikes are allowed on bicycle paths, shared tracks, and also some pedestrian-only pathways. However, they are not permitted on roads where bicycles are ‘not allowed’. Follow bicycle road rules and general road rules. You don’t need a license, registration, or compulsory third-party insurance to ride an electric bike.

E-bike prices vary depending on brand, features, and type. Expect a range of $1,500 to $10,000+.

Yes! While the motor assists, you still get exercise from pedaling and can adjust the assist level for a workout.

The cost is minimal, typically a few cents per charge.

Range varies depending on battery size, terrain, and use. Expect 30-100 km on average.

You can take your bike on trains or ferries anytime, but if you are travelling on a train in peak hour make sure to: board using the first or last carriages of six-car trains only. ensure only two people with bikes or e-scooters are in the first or last carriage at any time, or wait for another train.  Ebikes are not generally permitted in buses.

 

As of May 2024, there are currently limited government incentives for e-bike purchases in Australia. However, one state has implemented a program, and others may follow suit:

  • Tasmania: Tasmania became the first state in Australia to offer a rebate program for e-bikes in November 2023. The program offers a rebate of:
    • 12% of the purchase price (up to a maximum of $500) for standard e-bikes.
    • 12% of the purchase price (up to a maximum of $1,000) for e-cargo bikes.
    • The program has a total funding pool of $200,000 and is expected to run until February 2024 (or until funds are exhausted).
    • Check the Tasmanian government website for the latest program details and eligibility criteria: [Tasmania government website ON tas.gov.au] (Search for “e-bike rebate”)

Other States:

  • Currently, no other Australian state offers direct rebates or subsidies for e-bike purchases.

Federal Government:

  • The Australian Federal Government currently does not offer any specific incentives for e-bikes.
  • However, the recently released National Electric Vehicle Strategy (April 2023) focuses on increasing the uptake of zero-emission vehicles. This strategy may pave the way for future e-bike incentives.

The Landscape is Evolving:

  • With Tasmania leading the way and the focus on sustainable transport increasing, other states may introduce e-bike incentive programs in the future.
  • Stay updated by checking your state’s environment or sustainability department website for any announcements.

E-bikes are legal throughout Australia, but specific regulations regarding power output, speed limits, and throttle use can differ slightly between states and territories. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Nationally: E-bikes are classified as bicycles, meaning they can be ridden on roads where bicycles are permitted (with some exceptions like motorways).
  • Main difference:
    • Most states have a 250 watt motor power limit for road-legal e-bikes with pedal-assist up to 25 km/h.
    • New South Wales allows e-bikes with a higher motor power of up to 500 watts, but with the same 25 km/h speed limit.
  • Throttle use:
    • Most states allow throttles only for starting assistance at low speeds (around 6 km/h).
    • In NSW, throttles can be used for continuous operation, but again, with the speed limited to 25 km/h.
 

No, registration for e-bikes is not required in Australia.

E-bike insurance is not mandatory but recommended for theft, damage, or injury.

There are various e-bikes, including commuter, mountain, cargo, and folding e-bikes. Choose the one that suits your needs.

 

E-bikes are generally low maintenance. Regular checks and cleaning are recommended.

 

E-bikes can take the rain. The electric components of an E-bike are highly water-resistant, so you don’t have to stay inside when it’s wet outside. Although most e-bikes are water-resistant, which means riding or parking them in rain is perfectly fine, but do not put that deep that the motor and battery are underwater.

E-bikes are sold at bike shops, sporting goods stores, and online direct to customer websites.

Yes, there are e-bike clubs and online communities across Australia. Search online or ask your local bike shop.