Electric bikes, or EPACs (Electric Power-Assisted Cycles), have exploded in popularity in Australia in recent years. They offer an eco/budget friendly alternative for your commute, and riders have flocked to them as they become more easily available. With the rising cost of living, especially petrol prices, they're becoming a much more attractive option for many commuters who don't want the hassle of owning and maintaining a car. They're great for those who struggle with regular bike riding, acting as an alternative between motorbikes and regular push bikes. With its power-assist functions, you'll no longer be sweating your way up steep inclines, allowing you to enjoy your bike ride while maintaining speed and consistency.
With this growing popularity, it's important to understand the proper rules and regulations surrounding them. Confusion can often arise as to whether they should be used the same as regular bikes or treated as being closer to motorbikes. Here, we'll delve into the rules and regulations surrounding EPACs and explore some of the best place to ride them in Australia.
While e-bikes may closely resemble motorbikes in many ways, there are fundamental differences in their operation to keep in mind. The defining feature of e-bike is that it still has pedals that are used to accelerate the bike, making it a form of bicycle rather than a motorbike. As such, e-bikes fall into a bit of a grey area that require special regulation, as they don't quite fit into the traditional categories of either bicycles or motor vehicles.
Currently, there are specific road rules determining the categorisation of EPACs over motorbikes and push bikes. To be considered an EPAC, it needs to have a maximum power output of 250 watts, a pedal-assist function, and a maximum speed capacity of 25km/h. These regulations ensure that e-bikes are safe to ride and pose limited risk to other road users. It's an important distinction, as a bike that goes above these standards could potentially require a motorbike license and registration.
At Progear, all our e-bikes comply with EPAC standards, so you can be assured that any electric bike you buy from falls legally under this category.
Even though EPACs have their own category under the road rules, all rules and requirements of regular bike riding still apply. This includes wearing a helmet, using headlights when riding in the dark, and following the road rules. E-bike riders are also permitted to ride on public footpaths and major bike routes, making them a versatile option for both commuting and recreational riding.
One of the main benefits of e-bikes is their ability to enhance the regular riding experience, particularly when it comes to tackling hills and challenging terrain. E-bikes provide the necessary torque and momentum to maintain speed when tackling tough climbs, and this will be one of the main benefits no matter where you're riding. Let's look at some of the different scenarios for riding an e-bike and how they can enhance your experience:
Road riding: E-bikes are an excellent choice for commuters who want an efficient, convenient commute without the hassle of owning and maintaining a car. It's a choice that's become especially popular for commuters who live closer to the CBD, where a car or motorbike might not be necessary. With the pedal-assisted function, riders can tackle tough hills, strong headwinds and carry heavier loads, making their commute faster and more comfortable. Check out our collection of electric commuter and road bikes to find an option that suits you.
Off-road riding: E-bikes can make off-road riding more accessible for beginners and those who may not have the fitness levels to tackle challenging terrain and inclines on a traditional bike. With the added assistance of the motor, riders can take on hills and obstacles with more confidence and ease. Browse our selection of offroad e-bikes and electric mountain bikes for the ultimate off-road experience.
City riding: No one's a fan of city driving. And with many CBD's becoming more bike-friendly, it's no surprise that e-bikes are becoming a more common sight in the city. They're a great choice not just for your commute, but for exploring the city and taking in the sights. With the ability to cover more ground in less time, riders can see more of the city without having have to worry about CBD parking or crowding onto a packed train. There are many choices for city riding, such as road and commuter bikes. Folding electric bikes makes for a convenient and transportable option in the city. You can also check out our hybrid electric bikes for your ride.
When it comes to choosing an e-bike, it's important to consider your needs and type of riding you plan to do. At Progear, we have options for every type of user, from inner-city commutes to off-road exploring. We also have a range of accessories and add-ons to enhance your riding experience.
Electric bikes are a great option for those looking to get around quickly and efficiently while still enjoying the benefits of cycling. When riding your electric bike in Australia, it's important to follow the same road rules as you would when riding a regular bike, and to ensure that your electric bike is compliant with Australian road rules. With a range of electric bikes available from Progear bikes, you can find the perfect bike to suit your needs and enhance your riding experience. You can also contact us if you have any questions regarding our range, and our friendly staff will be happy to help you.
E-Bike Road Rules by State (as of May 2023):
| Victoria | Tasmania | NSW | South Australia | Queensland | Western Australia | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max. Speed (Until motor stops assisting) | Victoria25km/h | Tasmania25km/h | NSW25km/h | South Australia25km/h | Queensland25km/h | Western Australia25km/h |
| Max Power Output - Pedal Assisted or Pedalec | Victoria250 watts | Tasmania250 watts | NSW500 watts | South Australia250 watts | Queensland250 watts | Western Australia250 watts |
| License and Registration Required? | VictoriaNo | TasmaniaNo | NSWNo | South AustraliaNo | QueenslandNo | Western AustraliaNo |
Note that recent legislation has barred bikes that can be accelerated by a throttle, except in rare circumstances. Progear exclusively sells pedal assisted or pedalec bikes that only engage the motor through pedalling.
For a more comprehensive breakdown of electric bike laws Australia-wide, refer to the relevant documentation for each state below:
