Throttle e bikes are a great way to get around, whether it be for the daily commute or for deliveries. But are throttle electric bikes legal in Australia? Read on because in this article, we cover everything you need to know about this question and much more!

Throttle Electric Bikes Explained

Electric bikes are bikes that have electrically power assisted cycle. The primary source of power is from a motor attached to the bike, which is also chargeable. This makes pedalling and moving the bicycle forward easier and require less effort. Electric bikes are also great for people with limited mobility or want to travel longer distances on their bikes.

There are 2 types of assistance with electric bikes, the more common being pedal assist, and the rarer throttle assist. Pedal assist electric bikes provide motor assistance at the same time as when the rider is pedalling. Throttle assist on the other hand gives motor assistance on demand with the help of a hand operated throttle. This gives bike riders an even easier time riding their throttle assist bike compared to a pedal assist bike, with an extra level of power control.

The Legal Landscape of Electric Bikes in Australia 

Before we understand the specifics around the question of “are throttle electric bikes legal in Australia”, lets understand the overarching laws of electric bikes. Each of the different states in Australia have a different set of rules regarding electric bikes. In general, electric bikes are classified separately from motor vehicles because of their unique characteristics. 

In NSW, riders can enjoy e bikes with a power of up to 500 watts, whereas all other states and territories are allowed electric bikes with power of up to 250 watts. Electric bikes with more powerful motors are considered as motor vehicles and must follow motor vehicle standards for road rules.

For those interested in a specific model, consider the 27M05 Mid-Drive, the stylish E-Mono 20 Electric Cool Bike SE-20B03, the rugged E-Mono Troy EQP 27.5" 48V Hard-Tail EMTB, or the accessible E-Mono Pegasus 26 Step Through.

Electric bikes also have a limit of the speed their motors assist riders to. Across Australia, pedal and throttle assist electric bikes must have their motors cut off once a speed of 25 km/h is reached. Riders are able to then keep pedaling past that speed limit without any electric motor assistance. There is ongoing debate about the safety of electric bikes on public roads, with mixed opinions and limited data for legal decisions to be made by regulators for their use.

Other laws surrounding electric bike use on public roads are shared with normal bicycles. This includes riders having to wear a helmet, have a functioning front and rear light at night, and stopping at traffic lights. 

The Debate: Are Throttle Electric Bikes Legal in Australia?

So, are throttle electric bikes legal in Australia? The short answer to that question is yes, they are legal nationwide. Electric bike laws are slightly different for throttle powered bikes however. The power output of throttle electric bike motors are limited to 200 watts, including in NSW, and this is less than the 250 watts allowed for power-assisted pedal cycle bikes. 

However, despite this, other laws for throttle electric bikes are shared with pedal assist electric bikes. The debate and controversy comes from the motor assist not coming from pedalling the bicycle. Individuals who speak against throttle power electric bikes argue that because they don’t need pedalling to move, they should not count as an electric bicycle but instead a motor vehicle. 

These critics also argue that throttle e bikes aren’t safe due to being able to achieve their speeds faster without any pedalling. The main talking point here is that this could increase risks or accidents.

People in support of these bikes in the debate of “are throttle electric bikes legal in Australia” have a number of counterarguments. They raise points about how throttle electric bikes give better transportation to people with limited mobility, and how they make sustainable commuting more enjoyable and efficient.  

Staying Safe and Legal on the Road with a Throttle Electric Bike

With the question of “are throttle electric bikes legal in Australia” answered, let’s see how you can stay safe and legal whilst riding on one. For detailed regulations, check out our comprehensive guide: E-Bike Regulations - The Essential Guide by Sunmono E-Bikes.

Riding any bike on public roads in Australia has it’s risks and dangers. With very limited protection in the event of an accident, staying safe on bikes and electric bikes is vital. To do this, we have a number of tips for you to follow.

Obey the Local Road Rules

As with all other bicycles, electric bikes must stop at traffic lights and stop signs and yield to pedestrians. This is only made more important as bicycles are harder to see and be aware of compared to cars and motorbikes. Many high quality throttle electric bikes also come with a speedometer. This lets you stay within the 25 km/h speed limits allowed on public roads with your e bike and out of the eye of the law. 

Ride Predictably and Stay Alert

Another aspect to keep in mind is what your behaviour is like whilst you ride. Try riding predictably and in straight lines. Signalling your turns also reduces the possibility of other road users or pedestrians making mistakes and getting into accidents with you. It’s also important to stay aware of where the traffic and pedestrians around you are.

Electric bikes can also take longer to slow down and stop. This makes it important to slow down whilst travelling downhill, through intersections and around blind corners. And although these situations are particularly risky, it’s also important to ride defensively and assume that others do not see you.

Wear Protective Gear

Helmets are a legal necessity for all riders of electric bikes. Helmets provide a high level of protection for your head and brain from serious injuries. They work by absorbing the impact of collisions and also protect it from scraps and abrasions from your head sliding against the road. 

It’s important to note that helmets must be replaced after a hard impact. This is because their ability to absorb further damage and impact is limited and less than what is needed for your head. They also have an expiration date, so old and worn helmets must be replaced.

Another tip is to wear reflective clothing and long pants and sleeved tops. After a fall, long sleeved tops and long pants help to reduce damage to your skin. And reflective clothes help you to be seen by other people in cars, on bikes, and by pedestrians. Reflective clothing is a great preventive measure against accidents happening in the first place.

Get Riding on Your Throttle Electric Bike Legally!

So, are throttle electric bikes legal in Australia? Yes, they are, but do have a power limit of 200 watts for their motors and a speed limit of 25 km/h. Follow the rules and tips mentioned above and you have nothing to worry about riding around with your handy throttle powered  electric bike. Browse our range and get the throttle bike you’ve been looking for today with Sunmono!