Bicycle Queensland calls for action on high-powered e-bikes

Bicycle Queensland (BQ) has released a new position statement calling for stronger regulation of high-powered e-bikes, which do not comply with Australian standards and pose significant safety risks on shared pathways and roads around Queensland and Australia.

Read all of Bicycle Queensland’s position statements

The rapid rise of these illegal devices—capable of speeds up to 60km/h and beyond purely via throttle—has sparked public concern across the state, with residents and authorities alarmed by their presence in shared-use environments. By law, e-bikes must stick to the EN19154 standard, which mandates a 250W maximum for continuous power, along with pedal assist limited to a maximum of 25km/h, amongst other inclusions. Brush up on Queensland’s e-bike regulations.

BQ CEO Alton Twine emphasised the urgency of addressing this issue:

“Safety must come first. High-powered e-bikes that exceed legal limits create unnecessary risks for both riders and the wider community. We need clear regulations and enforcement to ensure that only safe, compliant devices are on our streets and pathways.”

BQ is calling for restrictions on the import and sale of non-compliant e-bikes, better public education on legal e-bike use, and greater enforcement measures to curb the misuse of high-powered devices which are only legal to be used on private property.

Everything you need to know about e-bikes

At the same time, BQ remains a strong advocate for legal pedal-assist e-bikes, which meet the Australian standard and offer a sustainable transport alternative. Advocacy Director Andrew Demack highlighted their benefits:

“Pedal-assist e-bikes are an incredible transport solution. They help more people ride further, reduce congestion, and improve public health. We must ensure that the future of e-mobility is built on safe and legal technology. The rapid uptake by Queenslanders of the e-bike and e-scooter rebates in late 2024 show just how popular legal e-bikes and e-scooters are.”

Bicycle Queensland will continue working with government, industry, and community stakeholders to push for reforms that promote safe and sustainable transport choices.

You can read our complete position statement here.