Mums and dads throughout the Hunter are being warned to do their research and only buy legal e-bikes for their children at Christmas.

The advice, from NSW Police, comes after a recent crackdown on modified vehicles and dangerous riding.

Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Assistant Commissioner David Driver said parents had a responsibility to ensure the bike was not altered in any way.

“If you are considering purchasing an e-bike this festive season, make sure it complies with NSW law,” he stated.

“Don’t get pressured by your kids, peers or salespeople into buying the most powerful one.

“Police don’t want someone to make a mistake that costs them their life or causes them serious injury.

“Unfortunately, we’ve seen more modified bikes and powerful motors fitted.

“An e-bike is illegal if it has a greater power output than 500 watts, even if it is limited by software.

“So, people must remain vigilant and be aware of how easy it can be to modify the bike.”

E-BIKE RULES

• Rider must primarily propel the bike with the pedals
• Motors are intended to assist when riding uphill or into headwind, not as the primary source of propulsion
• An electrically power-assisted cycle can only have a maximum power output of 500 watts
• The electric motor must cut off when the bicycle reaches 25km/h
• The electric motor should not assist the rider when travelling more than 25km/h but does not prevent the rider travelling faster with their own pedalling or going downhill
• The motor can be used up to 6km/h before the rider must pedal
• Illegal e-bikes cannot be registered in NSW and are therefore unregistered and uninsured motor vehicles
• All riders and passengers must wear approved helmets that are securely fitted and fastened
• Only children under 16 years of age or adults accompanying a child under 16 can ride on a footpath, unless there are signs prohibiting bicycle riding
• Riders need to keep to the left and give way to pedestrians on shared paths or footpaths
• Mobile phones must be hands-free or secured in a commercially manufactured phone holder fixed to the bike
• It is illegal to text, make video phone calls, use social media, or take photos/videos while riding

FINES

• $818 for illegal e-bike use
• $410 for not wearing an approved helmet
• $410 for holding a mobile phone
• Riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol can lead to fines or imprisonment
• Penalties apply for negligent or dangerous riding

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