E-bike safety

Rules & safety tips for e-bikes

The rapid rise in the popularity of e-bikes over the past year means that many riders and community members may not be fully aware of the current rules, safe practices, and legal requirements around their use.

Links below provide you with references and information to ensure you have the most up-to-date and comprehensive information.

Rules for e-bike riders

Before you ride, remember these three simple rules:

Slow down to walking pace when others are on the path
Ring your bell to let people know you’re approaching
Share the path and stay alert for sudden movement from people, pets or prams

Road rules for e-bikes

E-bikes are currently subject to the same road rules as bicycles. All e-bike riders must:

Wear a helmet
Keep to the left and give way to pedestrians
Have a working bell and use it to warn others when approaching
Dismount and walk the bike over pedestrian crossings. Only ride across a pedestrian crossing if there is a bicycle lane or green bicycle light.
Have a white light at the front of the bike and a red light and reflector at the back of the bike.

Find out more about the road rules at Transport for NSW.

Can you ride on the footpath?

You can ride on the footpath if:

you're under 16 years of age
you're 16 years or older and are supervising a child under 16 riding a bike.

If you're 16 years or older and not supervising a child under 16 years riding a bike, you can’t ride on the footpath.

Tips for parents

Before purchasing an e-bike for you or your family make sure you understand the current rules.

There are 2 types of permitted e-bikes: power-assisted pedal cycles; and electrically power-assisted cycles.
E-bikes must be designed to be propelled primarily by the rider and cannot exceed 25km/h.
Modifying the speed capacity of an e-bike could mean you are changing it from a bicycle to a motorbike. Riding an unregistered motorbike could result in a significant fine.
In case of accidents, ensure you or your child are covered for personal and public liability for injuries and property damage. Parents may be held responsible for their child’s behaviour while using an e-bike.
Consider looking into bicycle insurance to protect against potential liability issues. You can find out more at Bicycle NSW.

E-scooters and other motorised vehicles

Personal e-scooters are illegal on NSW roads and paths, including bicycle lanes. They can only be used on private property.
E-skateboards, e-hovercrafts, e-mono-wheels and e-segways are also illegal on NSW roads and paths.
Fines start from $818
Illlegal e-bike use can be reported to police. Call your local police station, police assistance line on 131 444, crime stoppers on 1800 333 000 or triple zero if it's an emergency.

Information about the Bicycle Education Trial with Bicycle NSW can be found below.

Bicycle Education Trial

Additional Links

Last Updated: 1 April 2026