Australia is experiencing a growing interest in electric bikes and motorbikes due to their eco-friendly nature and efficiency in reducing traffic congestion. However, the existing legal framework has not kept pace with the evolving landscape of alternative transportation, leading to unnecessary restrictions and inconsistencies in regulations.

Reasons for Change:

Encouraging Sustainable Transportation:

E-bikes and electric motorbikes contribute significantly to reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly commuting. By revising current laws, we can encourage more Australians to adopt these sustainable alternatives, aligning with national and global environmental goals.
Economic Benefits:

The electric bike industry has the potential to create jobs and stimulate economic growth. With a more supportive regulatory environment, businesses specializing in e-bike manufacturing, sales, and servicing can flourish, contributing positively to the Australian economy.
Reducing Traffic Congestion:

E-bikes and electric motorbikes offer a practical solution to alleviate traffic congestion in urban areas. By facilitating their widespread use, we can contribute to a smoother flow of traffic and enhance overall mobility.
Promoting Public Health:

Encouraging the use of electric bikes can promote physical activity and lead to improved public health outcomes. By facilitating a healthier lifestyle, we can reduce the burden on the healthcare system and enhance the overall well-being of the population.
Safety Standards and Regulations:

Updating and clarifying the legal framework for electric bikes and motorbikes will help establish clear safety standards. This includes guidelines for speed limits, helmet usage, and road access, ensuring the well-being of riders and pedestrians.
Proposed Changes:

Create Clear Classifications

Establish clear and distinct classifications for electric bikes and motorbikes based on factors such as power output, maximum speed, and pedal-assist capabilities. An example of this would be, changing the speed limit from 25kph to 50kph, 14+ age use and 14 under with parental supervision or using a youth version because they are less powerful 

Adjust Speed Limits:

Review and adjust speed limits for electric bikes to reflect their capabilities while ensuring the safety of riders and others on the road. I would highly suggest that the speed limit should be changed to 50kph compared to the current 25 kph limit. Reasons for this are:

• The average commute speed of a regular non-electrified bike is 23km/h and some cyclists can maintain a speed of 30km/h for part or all of their commute.
• 25km/h on an electric bike when traveling in a lane with other vehicles around it is too slow. It encourages car users to take un-necessary risks to overtake. If the bike were travelling closer to 50km/h (the majority of our suburban / cbd streets are 50km/h) they would not need to take this risk.

Reduce Age Use:

Lowering the age from 16 to 14 years for using electric dirt bikes encourages kids to adopt eco-friendly transportation early, promoting healthy and active lifestyles. It provides an opportunity for skill development and responsible riding habits in a controlled environment, fostering environmentally conscious and safety-aware riders from a young age. At this age more and more kids start to gain part time jobs and this can help as their mode of transport. 

Education and Awareness Programs:

Implement comprehensive education and awareness programs to inform the public, law enforcement, and other stakeholders about the benefits and regulations surrounding electric bikes and motorbikes.

We firmly believe that updating the current electric bike and motorbike laws in Australia is a crucial step towards fostering a more sustainable, economically vibrant, and safer transportation ecosystem. We urge you to consider our concerns and work towards implementing the proposed changes for the benefit of the Australian community.