A senior police officer in Geelong has made a bold offer to personally destroy illegal e-bikes as authorities intensify efforts to combat dangerous riding behaviour in the region.
Officer's drastic proposal
Leading Senior Constable Mark Reynolds, from the Geelong Police Service Area, said he would take a sledgehammer to any e-bike that fails to meet legal requirements. The offer comes amid growing concerns over the increasing number of illegally modified e-bikes being ridden on public roads and footpaths.
"If I catch you riding an illegal e-bike, I will personally destroy it with a sledgehammer," Reynolds said. "These bikes are a danger to both riders and pedestrians, and we are determined to get them off our streets."
Rise in dangerous riding incidents
Police have reported a significant increase in incidents involving e-bikes, including riders travelling at excessive speeds, ignoring traffic rules, and using footpaths illegally. Many of these bikes have been modified to exceed the legal power limit of 250 watts or have had their speed limiters removed.
"We've seen a surge in complaints from the community about e-bikes being ridden dangerously," Reynolds said. "It's only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured or killed."
Legal requirements for e-bikes
Under Victorian law, e-bikes must comply with strict regulations to be ridden on public roads. They must have a maximum power output of 250 watts and a top speed of 25 km/h when powered solely by the motor. Riders must also be at least 16 years old and wear a helmet.
Any e-bike that does not meet these requirements is considered illegal and can be confiscated and destroyed by police.
Community support for crackdown
The officer's offer has been met with support from local residents, who have expressed frustration with the behaviour of some e-bike riders. "It's about time something was done," said Geelong resident Sarah Thompson. "I've seen these bikes whizzing past on footpaths, and it's terrifying."
However, some e-bike enthusiasts have criticised the approach, arguing that not all modified bikes are dangerous. "There are responsible riders who just want a bit more power for hills," said local rider Tom Harris. "Destroying their property seems extreme."
Police vow to continue enforcement
Despite the criticism, police have vowed to continue their crackdown on illegal e-bikes. Reynolds said officers would be conducting regular patrols and operations targeting dangerous riding behaviour.
"We're not trying to ruin anyone's fun, but public safety comes first," he said. "If you're riding an illegal e-bike, you're breaking the law, and we will take action."
The police have also urged the public to report any concerns about dangerous e-bike riding in their neighbourhoods.
