Roosters Crack Down on E-Bike Risks After Player Injury

Following a concussion injury to centre Billy Smith, the Sydney Roosters NRL team has implemented a stringent set of new rules governing the use of e-bikes and scooters by its players. The injury, which occurred when Smith fell off his e-bike late last week, caused him to miss a recent match and potentially the upcoming game against the Panthers.

Club officials, including Chairman Nick Politis and coach Trent Robinson, expressed disappointment and emphasized the importance of learning from this incident. The new regulations mandate that players must always wear helmets, observe designated speed limits, and refrain from carrying teammates on their cycles. These guidelines aim to enhance player safety and mitigate the risks associated with e-bike usage.

To further support player safety and reduce reliance on personal e-bikes, the Roosters will now offer a courtesy bus service. This bus will operate along Driver Ave, providing transport between the player car park and the club's centre of excellence, a short distance that previously saw players using their own cycles. This initiative reflects the club's commitment to player well-being.

This development occurs amidst broader concerns about e-bike safety in Australia. Leading trauma doctors have previously urged parents to reconsider purchasing illegal e-bikes for children due to a rise in serious head injuries and facial fractures. Some high-powered e-bikes are capable of reaching speeds up to 70km/h, posing significant risks that can lead to life-altering or life-threatening injuries.