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Using e-bikes and e-scooters on NSW roads, shared paths, and footpaths cameras

E-bikes in Hornsby Shire Council: Ride Safe, Ride Smart

The popularity of e-bikes is growing rapidly across Hornsby Shire — and it’s easy to see why! They’re fun, eco-friendly, and an efficient way to get around our leafy suburbs, town centres and bushland trails.

But with speed and silence comes responsibility. Whether you’re commuting, heading to school, or just out for a ride, it’s vital to stay safe — for yourself and those around you.

E-bikes are subject to the same road rules as bicycles. To be considered a bicycle it cannot be propelled exclusively by a motor. In Australia e-bikes must not assist pedalling past the speed of 25km/h.

While e-bikes sold in Australia meet the legal requirements, there is currently no quality control over e-bikes purchased and shipped from overseas retailers.

E-scooters

Personal e-scooters cannot legally be ridden on public roads and paths in NSW, only on private property.

There are some e-scooter trials taking place across NSW in locations that have been approved by Transport for NSW.

Ride Right: Safety First

To help keep everyone safe on shared paths, footpaths and roads:

  • Wear your helmet — and make sure it’s securely fastened
  • Use your bell — give a friendly ding to alert pedestrians
  • Fit front and rear lights — for visibility day and night
  • Check your bike’s legal status — only certain e-bikes are allowed on public roads and footpaths in NSW
  • Bicycle riders must keep to the left on footpaths and give way to pedestrians
  • Only children under 16 years of age of age can ride on the footpath, and they can be accompanied by adults
  • Bicycles are not allowed in pedestrian malls such as Hornsby Mall
  • Riding too fast, especially on footpaths or near schools, puts others at risk. Slow down around people and always ride with care.
Shared Paths = Shared Responsibility

Road safety is a shared responsibility. Council and police follow up where, and as appropriate with unsafe and illegal behaviour.

In Hornsby Shire, many paths are shared between walkers, cyclists and e-bike riders. Always:

  • Keep left
  • Pass at a safe distance and speed
  • Dismount in crowded areas
  • Respect pedestrians, especially children and the elderly.
E-bike and e-scooter fire risk

E-bikes and e-scooters commonly contain lithium-ion batteries. These batteries pose a number of risks including explosion and fire, particularly when used in products that are not manufactured to meet the relevant Australian standards.

To reduce the risk of incidents caused by e-bike and e-scooter batteries we suggest following Fire and Rescue NSW’s list of recommendations.

More information