NSW Government's E-Bike Crackdown Draws Criticism from Local Cyclists
Proposed legislation in New South Wales that would allow police to confiscate and destroy illegal electric bikes has ignited a fierce debate, with legal e-bike riders in Wollongong expressing concerns they are being unfairly swept up in the controversy. The state government's plan, announced by Transport Minister John Graham, aims to simplify the seizure process for non-compliant vehicles, often referred to as fat bikes.
Legal Riders Feel 'Tarred with the Same Brush'
Edward Birt, president of the Illawarra Bike Users Group, argues that compliant e-bikes are being lumped in together with illegal models, creating confusion and potential injustice. We sort of seem to be tarring all of the bikes with the same brush, Mr Birt stated, highlighting the distinction between regulated pedal-assisted e-bikes, which have a throttle cut-off at 6km/h and a top speed of 25km/h, and other mobility devices.
He described the crushing proposal as a knee-jerk response, noting that many adults rely on affordable e-bikes for transportation amid cost-of-living pressures. I saw a dad this morning with two kids on the bike off to school, Mr Birt recounted, Those bikes are $3000 or $4000 compared to a $60,000 or $70,000 motor car. He warned that such non-compliant bikes could be destroyed under the new laws, impacting families who depend on them.
Political Backlash and Calls for Alternative Solutions
Wollongong councillor Jess Whittaker has branded the government's approach a heavy-handed flex from an unpopular government, suggesting it serves as a distraction from other issues, such as a recent visit by Israeli President Isaac Herzog. Cr Whittaker criticised the Minns Labor government for failing to engage with federal counterparts on import standards, underinvesting in active transport infrastructure, and lacking educational campaigns for e-mobility safety.
Instead of crushing bikes, she advocated for infringement notices or modifications to make non-compliant vehicles legal. If seizure is necessary, these bikes could be modified back to being compliant and still provide transportation to people that is more sustainable and safer than a motor vehicle, she emphasised.
Government's Stance on Illegal E-Bikes
Transport Minister John Graham has made the government's position clear, stating that riders of illegal e-bikes should expect severe consequences. Riders and owners of illegal e-bikes should now hear us loud and clear: If you are breaking the rules, and your bike does not meet the very clear specifications of a pedal-assisted e-bike, expect it to be removed from your possession and crushed, Mr Graham declared over the weekend.
The legislation seeks to address safety concerns and regulatory gaps, but opponents argue it overlooks the nuances of e-bike usage and the economic realities faced by many residents. As the debate continues, the focus remains on balancing enforcement with fairness for compliant riders in the Illawarra region and beyond.
