The head of Australia's largest bicycle retailer has taken his fight for e-bike reform directly to Queensland's highest office, revealing the contents of his urgent letter to Premier Steven Miles.
The E-Bike Revolution Hitting Roadblocks
Matt Turner, CEO of Pedal Group which operates the 99 Bikes chain, is leading the charge for regulatory changes that would see e-bikes treated more like traditional bicycles rather than motor vehicles under Queensland law.
'We're at a critical juncture for sustainable transport in Australia,' Turner explained. 'Current regulations are creating unnecessary barriers to adoption at a time when we should be encouraging cleaner commuting options.'
What's Wrong with Current Laws?
Under existing Queensland legislation, many popular e-bike models face restrictions that don't align with their actual use and capabilities. Turner's letter outlines several key concerns:
- Overly restrictive power limitations that don't reflect modern e-bike technology
- Confusing classification systems that treat some e-bikes similarly to motorbikes
- Insurance and licensing requirements that create unnecessary red tape
- Inconsistent regulations across state borders causing confusion for riders
A Common-Sense Approach to Reform
Turner isn't calling for a free-for-all on Queensland roads. Instead, he's proposing a balanced approach that would:
- Align Australian e-bike standards with international best practices
- Create clear categories based on speed and power capabilities
- Maintain safety requirements while reducing bureaucratic hurdles
- Support the growing demand for eco-friendly transport alternatives
'This isn't just about selling more bikes,' Turner emphasised. 'It's about creating cities that are less congested, more sustainable, and healthier for everyone. E-bikes represent a genuine solution to many of our urban transport challenges.'
The Bigger Picture for Queensland
With congestion choking major cities and climate targets looming, Turner argues that e-bikes deserve serious consideration as part of the state's transport strategy. His letter to the Premier comes as other states review their own e-bike regulations, creating an opportunity for Queensland to lead the way.
The response from the Premier's office could determine whether Queensland embraces the e-bike revolution or gets left pedalling behind.
