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As the holidays draw near, e-bikes are expected to top many Christmas wish-lists but parents around the Hawkesbury are being urged to be careful and fully understand what they’re buying before wrapping that shiny new ride under the tree.
Across Australia, authorities have seen a surge in accidents involving electric bikes and motor-assisted cycles. Some have resulted in serious injuries or even death, especially among younger riders.
What makes things riskier is the growing popularity of non-compliant or “over-powered” e-bikes, including those imported with motors that exceed safe limits, or bikes modified beyond what is legal or safe.
In response, transport ministers have agreed to tighten regulations, aiming to ensure e-mobility devices on the Australian market meet consistent safety standards.
What “legal and safe” e-bikes look like under NSW law
If you’re shopping for an e-bike in or around Hawkesbury, it’s essential you check:
- The bike must comply with the safety standard known as EN-15194.
- The motor should cut out at 25 km/h.
- The power should not exceed 250 watts and the bike should not be throttle-assisted (i.e. the motor should only assist while pedalling, not provide continuous power without pedalling).
- Avoid “conversion kits” these are add-ons that can turn a normal bike into a high-powered machine, often capable of 50-60 km/h which may be unsafe, unregistered, or illegal.
When in doubt: buy from a reputable local bike shop rather than unknown online retailers, and ask to see compliance certification.
Why this matters for Hawkesbury families
Many Hawkesbury kids commute to school, friends, or sports along suburban streets, shared paths and river-flat roads. E-bikes, especially over-powered ones, can pose increased risk in these environments.
Local ambulance and hospital services often deal with injuries resulting from bike and e-mobility accidents with consequences ranging from broken bones to head injuries.
Over-powered e-bikes blur the line between bicycle and motorbike leading to ride behaviour inconsistent with standard biking rules, which can cause conflict or danger on shared footpaths, narrow streets, or suburban roads.
So, if you’re thinking of giving an e-bike this Christmas, consider the following checklist:
- Check compliance: Look for the EN-15194 sticker, ensure motor cut-off at 25 km/h and 250 W limit.
- Avoid throttle-only or converted bikes: They often exceed safe power/speed limits.
- Helmet first: Even on a legal e-bike, always insist on helmet use — and consider additional protective gear for kids.
- Ride by the rules: E-bikes should be treated like bicycles follow local road/path laws, stick to bike paths, don’t ride on footpaths where prohibited.
- Educate before you gift: Talk to your kids about the responsibilities of riding an e-bike speed, traffic awareness, keeping equipment safe and legal.
- Support local shops: Buying from a trusted local retailer helps ensure legal compliance and good after-sales support.
An e-bike can be an excellent gift offering freedom, independence and convenience for school runs, weekend rides or trips to local parks. But in the Hawkesbury with suburban streets, shared paths and a growing community of young riders it’s essential for parents to treat it like any significant piece of equipment. That means doing the homework, checking legality, emphasising safety, and talking openly to kids about responsibility.
Acknowledgements for material used in this article: ABC and Guardian Australia.
