Victoria’s e‑bike laws have come under scrutiny in State Parliament, with The Nationals’ Melina Bath calling on the Allan Labor Government to review age restrictions and the sale of illegal conversion kits.
Ms Bath said the rapid rise in the misuse of high powered e‑bikes is endangering riders, pedestrians and motorists.
“Near misses and serious incidents involving dangerous riding performed well above legal speeds are becoming far too common.
“Our hardworking, under resourced police officers are already over stretched, they shouldn’t be burdened with the additional workload created by rising illegal e‑bike use.
“Overpowered and modified e-bikes pose a growing danger on our roads and footpaths, and my office regularly receives reports from pedestrians and drivers forced to take evasive action to avoid collisions.
“Parents, pedestrians and local road users are justifiably concerned, and the Allan Government has a responsibility to act and better protect public safety.”
Major gaps in Victorian laws include the absence of age based restrictions and the ability for retailers to sell conversion kits without verifying if motors, throttles or batteries meet Victorian road and design standards.
Ms Bath said research data showing children aged 10 to 13 are experiencing the highest rate of e‑bike injuries should be a wake‑up call.
“Conversion kits sold freely in Victoria which push e‑bikes well beyond their intended legal limits is a recipe for harm for young people.
“NSW has already announced a crackdown from 1 February which gave police the power to seize and crush illegal e‑bikes.
“Legal e‑bikes undoubtably have a place in our transport system, but the safety must always come first.”
