Electric bike (e-bike) safety

Electric bikes (e-bikes) are bicycles that are propelled using an electric motor combined with pedals.

Compliant e-bikes are legal in Victoria. Riders must follow the same road rules that apply to regular bicycles.

Legal e-bikes in Victoria

In Victoria, a legal e-bike has:

• a maximum continuous rated power output of no more than 250 watts
• motor assistance that cuts of after reaching 25km/h
• functioning pedals.

When you purchase an electric bike to use on public roads, make sure it meets the standards of a legal electric bicycle in Victoria.

People of any age can ride an e-bike without a licence in Victoria. The road rules for e-bikes are the same as for bicycle riders.

You cannot register your e-bike as a vehicle in Victoria.

E-bike versus motor-vehicle

Any electric bike that exceeds the legal power output (over 250 watts) or speed (25 km/h) capability is classified as a motor vehicle.

Many bikes that are sold as e-bikes exceed these power and speed limits. These are considered non-compliant motor vehicles, and cannot be legally registered.

You can only ride these types bikes on private property. If you ride these bikes on public roads or foothpaths, you can be fined for operating an unregistered vehicle.

These types of bikes include:

• dirt bikes
• ag bikes (agricultural bikes)
• monkey bikes.

If you ride a compliant and legal motorbike, you must comply with motorcycle road rules. Read more about motorcycle road rules, safety and modifications.

E-bike modifications

Ensure that any modifications to your e-bike does not compromise safety for speed.

E-bikes with the following modifications are illegal to ride on public roads and areas as a bicycle:

• toggle switches to override the power and wattage limits
• motor which continues to provide power after reaching 25km/h
• the motors have a combined continuous rated power output greater than 250 watts.
• no functional pedals
• fitted with an internal combustion engine (e.g. petrol powered).

Road rules for e-bike riders

On shared public roads and paths, e-bikes must follow the same road rules as a bicycle.

Make sure you understand the rules before going out on your e-bike. This is to keep you, other riders, pedestrians and drivers safe on the roads.

Rider rules include:

• always wear a properly fitted helmet
• keep to the left and give way to pedestrians on paths
• do not ride across a pedestrian crossing, unless there is a bicycle lane, or a green bicycle light
• have at least one working brake
• have a bell, horn or other warning device
• people 13 years and older cannot ride on the footpath, unless accompanying someone younger than 13.

You can be fined for breaking the road rules.

E-bike rider safety

Take care when riding your e-bike on shared roads and footpaths. Remember to:

• slow down and use your bell when passing pedestrians
• use your headlights during low light, for example at night, in bad weather, and in poorly lit areas
• ride on the correct side of the road, with the flow of traffic
• ensure your tyres remain properly inflated
• make eye contact with drivers and other road users, especially at intersections.

Find out more ways that cyclists can stay safe on shared footpaths and roads.

Report dangerous riding

If you notice dangerous riding on your community’s footpaths or roads, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

For emergencies, to report a crime in progress, or for immediate police attendance, call Triple Zero (000)(opens in a new window).

Battery safety

E-bikes typically use lithium-ion batteries. These can pose a fire risk if they are improperly used, stored, charged, or manufactured.

Only purchase e-bikes, batteries and chargers from reputable suppliers. Always follow the charging instructions, and do not attempt to modify the bike on your own.

Reduce the risks of a battery fire by:

• using the charger that was supplied with the e-bike, or a compatible charger that matches the e-bikes battery specifications
• only charging on flat, hard surfaces, avoid charging on flammable surfaces such as carpet
• not using damaged chargers with split cords, or batteries that show signs of deterioration
• not leaving the batteries or the e-bike unattended while charging
• disconnecting the e-bike from the charger as soon as it is fully charged.

For more information, visit Fire Rescue Victoria Battery safety for consumers.