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Ebike Swarms Invade Golf Courses and Streets
20 Jan
Summary
- Dozens of ebikes rode through a north Sydney golf course, causing disruption.
- Melbourne saw around 100 ebikes converge in a planned meet-up.
- Concerns grow over dangerous ebike use and lack of regulation.
Recent incidents involving large groups of ebikers have sparked concern in Australia. In North Sydney, approximately 60 young people rode through the Long Reef Golf Club's fairways, prompting a police report, though no significant damage was found. This event followed other reported vandalism incidents at the club involving ebikes.
Separately, about 100 ebikers converged in Melbourne, with police investigating reports of dangerous riding, including speeding and running red lights. These 'rideouts' by ebike enthusiasts, particularly those using powerful 'fat bikes', are becoming increasingly common and are raising safety concerns among the community.
Bicycle NSW acknowledges the benefits of ebikes but stresses the significant risks posed by high-powered models used dangerously and without helmets. The lack of regulation and potential for illegal modifications of ebikes are key issues being discussed.
Discussions about ebike regulation have been ongoing, with a plan announced in NSW to reduce ebike power and speed limits following a fatal collision. Transport ministers nationally have agreed to work towards a regulatory framework to ensure safer ebike supply and use.
