An industry leader in the electric bike sector is calling for stricter regulations to address the growing issue of illegally modified e-bikes in Australia. As the popularity of electric bikes continues to rise, concerns have been raised about the surge in illegally altered bicycles, despite efforts by law enforcement to crack down on these modifications.
Electric bikes have gained traction for their efficiency in navigating congested city streets, particularly for food delivery workers seeking faster transportation options. Unlike cars or motorcycles, e-bikes do not require registration or a license, provided they adhere to specific power limits outlined in Australian regulations.
Gema Martínez Casanova, operations manager for a prominent e-bike brand, expressed frustration over the proliferation of illegal e-bikes, emphasizing the importance of creating safe and reliable products for customers. The issue is further exacerbated by gig economy workers seeking faster delivery times through modifications that exceed legal limits.
While e-bikes are classified as ‘pedal-assisted cycles’ in most states, they must comply with power and speed restrictions to ensure safety and adherence to legal standards. However, the availability of e-bike conversion kits online has led to a surge in high-powered and unregistered models entering the market, posing significant challenges for industry stakeholders.
The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) has urged government authorities to enforce existing laws regulating e-bikes, especially in commercial operations where non-compliant e-bikes are being used. The VACC CEO emphasized the need for legal responsibilities when operating high-powered e-bikes for commercial purposes, highlighting the importance of upholding national regulations.
Efforts to curb the use of illegally modified e-bikes have been intensified in various regions, with police operations targeting riders who breach safety regulations. In New South Wales, authorities conducted a month-long operation that resulted in fines for riders using modified e-bikes that exceeded legal speed limits, underscoring the importance of enforcing e-bike regulations to ensure public safety.
As the electric bike industry continues to evolve, stakeholders are advocating for stricter measures to address the proliferation of illegal modifications and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. With the demand for electric bikes on the rise, maintaining the integrity of the industry and upholding safety regulations are paramount to fostering a sustainable and responsible e-bike ecosystem in Australia.
📰 Related Articles
- Rising E-Bike Injuries Spark Calls for Stricter Regulations
- Rising E-Bike Injuries Prompt Calls for Stricter Regulations
- Sandy Bolton MP Calls for Stricter Electric Bike Regulations
- Rising E-Scooter Injuries Spark Calls for Stricter Regulations
- Western Australia Boosts Music Industry with $2.75M Support Package