NSW E-bike Speed Limits Slashed for Safety

Premier Chris Minns has indicated that New South Wales may soon implement substantial new regulations for e-bikes, potentially halving their current speed limit from 60kmh to 25-30kmh. This announcement comes in the wake of a tragic collision in Sydney's CBD that resulted in the death of an e-bike rider. The proposed measures also include reducing the maximum power of e-bikes from 500 watts to 250 watts, a change that would naturally limit their speed to around 30kmh.

These stringent regulations would bring NSW into alignment with existing laws in other Australian states. Minns highlighted concerns about the availability of high-powered e-bikes, noting that some can legally reach speeds comparable to cars, posing a significant danger. The NSW government is also examining the definition of e-bikes to close loopholes that permit the sale and use of motorcycle-like devices as bicycles, aiming to prevent serious injuries and fatalities.

The Premier emphasized the urgency of these changes, especially with the holiday season approaching, to protect riders, particularly younger ones. The announcement coincided with a police crackdown on modified and dangerous e-bike riding across Sydney. Authorities urge consumers to ensure any e-bike purchase complies with current and upcoming NSW laws to avoid tragic consequences.