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.

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.


  • News
Return to top of page Back to top