Bringing a converted e-bike onto a train or metro in NSW could soon cost you up to $1100

Hop on any train or metro in NSW and you're bound to encounter someone with an e-bike – but in three weeks' time that sight will become illegal.

The NSW government is cracking down on DIY e-bikes with aftermarket batteries thought to be behind a series of lithium-battery fires on the state's rail network.

From November 1, some e-bikes will be banned from trains and metros with fines of up to $1100 for those who break the rules.

Here's everything you need to know before the rules change next month.

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What e-bike rules are changing?

Converted e-bikes will be banned from all trains and metros next month.

From November 1, pedal bikes which have been fitted with batteries or motors will be no longer be allowed on the NSW rail network.

The government said converted e-bikes pose a higher risk of electrical failure and fire due to the use of second-hand batteries and poor-quality components.

Bringing a banned converted e-bike onto a Sydney train, NSW Trainlink or metro service will carry a penalty notice offence of $400, with a maximum penalty of $1100.

This is the same fine for carrying a petrol-powered device onto a train.

The ban from November 1 will be supported by a "hotspot blitz" targeting offenders on train services in NSW.

Legal, compliant e-bikes will still be allowed on NSW transport.

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Why are e-bike rules changing in NSW?

The ban has been enacted following consultation and several converted e-bike fires in the Sydney area, including two incidents in Liverpool in the city's south-west last month.

Fire and Rescue NSW have reported 77 e-bike-related lithium-ion battery fires this year.

"We take the safety of our rail passengers and staff very seriously which is why we are taking the highest risk e-bikes out of train carriages," NSW Transport Minister John Graham said.

"The overwhelming message from the consultation was that banning all e-bikes from trains would go too far.

"Taking out the highest risk e-bikes is a sensible and balanced step, but we will watch this space very closely and take further action if necessary."

Transport for NSW Secretary Josh Murray said the state government wants to encourage residents to buy safe, good-quality e-bikes without any dangerous modifications.

"Electronic devices have transformed the way we live, work, and commute – but without boundaries, some have also introduced new risks and the potential to disrupt our safe rail operations," Murray said.

"This isn't a matter of jumping at shadows.

"Our safety experts have been monitoring this emerging situation very closely, and we're taking a sensible approach in consultation with our rail and transport operators."

The NSW and Victorian government have also penned a joint letter to the federal government calling for a national approach to regulating the e-bike market.

In South Australia, all e-bikes and e-scooters are banned on public transport.

Can I bring an e-bike on the train?

Currently, commuters can still bring converted and compliant e-bikes on NSW trains and metro services.

When the rules change on November 1, you will only be allowed to ride with compliant e-bikes.

However, signs began popping up earlier this year urging commuters to leave e-bikes and other e-ridables at home due to the risk of fire.

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Common e-bike fines

E-bikes fall under the same road rules as regular bicycles and attract the same fines for breaking these rules.

Illegal e-bike use, such as riding a modified e-bike that exceeds legal speed limits, can attract fines starting at $818.

Riding without an approved helmet, securely fitted and fastened, start at $410.

Riding while holding a mobile phone can attract on the spot fines starting from $410.

Additional fines apply for negligent or dangerous riding, or riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

How fast can an e-bike go legally?

In NSW, the motor on an e-bike must cut off when it reaches a speed of 25km/h.

This does not prevent a rider from travelling faster with their own pedalling or going downhill, but caps the electrically power-assisted speed the bike can travel at.

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What makes an e-bike legal in NSW?

For an e-bike to be legal in NSW, the rider must "primarily propel it by pedalling", meaning the motor can't be the only power which moves the bike.

An electric bike must have a maximum power of up to 500 watts to be allowed on NSW roads and footpaths.

The power also needs to be cut off when the speed reaches 25km/h.

Power-assisted bikes with a maximum power of 200 watts are also legal.

All petrol-powered bikes are illegal on NSW roads and public paths.

Batteries on these e-bikes need to be compliant with the Gas and Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act 2016 NSW, which requires strict compliance with international standards to prevent hazards such as overheating or fires.

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Do e-bikes need to be registered in NSW?

No, compliant e-bikes in Australia do not need to be registered.

However, riders do need to follow the same road rules as cyclists – including wearing an approved helmet.

Do I need a license to ride an e-bike in NSW?

No, you don't need a license to ride an e-bike in NSW.

There are also currently no age restrictions on riding personal e-bikes, meaning children can legally ride them.

However, age limits do apply to some ride share e-bikes as set by operators.

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