A prominent Illawarra cycling advocacy group is urging authorities to adopt a measured and evidence-based strategy for regulating electric bicycles and throttle-powered mobility devices, commonly called "fat bikes". The group warns that reactionary bans could be counterproductive.
A Call for Evidence-Based Regulation
The Illawarra Bicycle Users Group (IBUG) has stepped into the ongoing debate about e-mobility safety. IBUG president Edward Birt stated the organisation wants to foster a constructive conversation about these devices, which exist in a regulatory "grey area".
Mr Birt acknowledged widespread concern over speeds reached on shared paths, emphasising that speed limiting is non-negotiable. "We can't have people zipping along at 50 kmh on shared paths," he said. However, he stressed the importance of recognising the benefits of this new transport form, particularly for reducing environmental emissions.
Current New South Wales regulations cap e-bike assistance at 25 km/h, a limit IBUG supports. The group does, however, recommend a review to potentially align the limit with typical bicycle cruising speeds of 28-30 km/h.
Registration and Education, Not Prohibition
Instead of outright bans, IBUG proposes a "light-touch registration" system specifically for throttle-controlled fat bikes. This approach would differ from the pedal-assist models commonly used by cyclists.
"We would like to see better regulation, and that could include registration of these vehicles, an upfront payment around registration, and also some education," Mr Birt explained. He highlighted a particular need for training younger riders. "A lot of kids don't have experience riding a bicycle, and yet they're allowed to just jump on a throttle-controlled bike."
The group firmly opposes the broad denigration of young e-bike users. Mr Birt criticised the labelling of teenagers as "ratbags", arguing it is unfair. He pointed to inadequate infrastructure as a root cause of the problem, leaving young riders with few safe options.
"If they ride on the road, they get into trouble; if they ride on the footpath, they get into trouble; nobody's happy with them," he said. "Kids are getting labelled as troublemakers when really, what is the issue? The bikes are too fast, the infrastructure's not up to scratch, and we don't have a way of helping them drive responsibly."
Response to Tragic Accident and Political Signals
IBUG's call for a balanced dialogue comes in direct response to NSW Premier Chris Minns signalling potential regulatory changes following a fatal e-bike crash in Sydney's CBD in early December 2025. The rider, who was not wearing a helmet, was on a legally compliant e-bike.
Mr Birt described the issue as "really an emotional one" that IBUG is also grappling with. While acknowledging vehement opposition from some quarters, he stated the reality is that these devices are here to stay. He posed a compelling economic comparison: "What are the benefits for these devices, which cost $3,000 compared to a $50,000 car?"
The group's position champions a pragmatic middle ground—implementing sensible registration, speed control, and education programs to manage safety risks while harnessing the potential benefits of affordable, low-emission personal transport.
