Riding e-bikes and petrol-powered bicycles to and from school
E-bikes are growing in popularity. It’s important for schools to be aware of the laws, rules and regulations around the use of these devices.
27 February 2024
E-bikes
In NSW, there are two types of permitted e-bikes:
1. A power-assisted pedal cycle:
- has one or more motors attached with a combined maximum power output of up to 200 watts
- can't be propelled only by the motor/s
- weighs less than 50kg (including batteries)
- has a height-adjustable seat.
2. Electrically power-assisted cycle:
An electrically power-assisted cycle has a maximum continued rated power of up to 500 watts. This power output must be:
- progressively reduced as the bicycle’s speed increases beyond 6km/h
- cut off when:
- your bicycle reaches a speed of 25km/h
- you stop pedalling and the speed exceeds 6km/h.
The rider must primarily propel these bikes – a motor can't be the only source propelling it. The motor should only help the rider, like when going uphill or facing strong winds.
Petrol-powered bicycles
All petrol-powered bicycles are illegal on NSW roads and road-related areas like footpaths, shared paths, cycle ways and cycle paths.
This includes bicycles that:
- have a petrol-powered engine attached before or after purchase
- are powered by other types of internal combustion engines.
Petrol-powered bicycles are faster than regular bicycles, reaching moped and small motorcycle speeds.
Action required:
If you have students riding to and from school using petrol powered bicycles or e-bikes that don't comply with legislative standards, principals should:
- inform the student and their parents/carers that it is illegal to ride these bicycles outside private property
- not provide the storage of these petrol powered bicycles on school property.
Support Materials:
Stage 4 teaching and learning activity – Exploring e-bikes in NSW
Students will critically analyse the regulations surrounding e-bikes in New South Wales, exploring the distinctions between power-assisted pedal cycles, electrically power-assisted cycles, and the prohibition of petrol-powered bicycles.
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