E-bike users are being reminded to slow down and know the rules, following a number of accidents and near misses involving e-bikes over the past few years. Just recently, several teenagers have been issued fines, and local authorities have impounded multiple e-bikes.
In 2024 a man sadly died in the Byron Shire, while this year a Mullumbimby man was seriously injured after being hit by an e-bike.
"We want everyone to be safe in the Byron Shire, wrongly used e-bikes can be dangerous and there are rules that need to be followed to ensure a safer community," Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye said.
"The current rules state that e-bikes should not go faster than 25 kilometres an hour.
"Cheer up, chill out and slow down on your e-bike is the message we want people to remember.
"We are also urging people to remember to wear a helmet when on your bike or e-bike, and if there are lots of pedestrians around, be sure to sound your bell, to let them know you are approaching. Further to this you can only ride on footpaths if you are under 16 or accompanying someone under 16.
"Other e-rideables like e-scooters are illegal to use, except when on private property.
"We're also seeing many incidents of e-bike users damaging our Shire's sports fields, which is hugely disappointing, after what has been such a disrupted year for many sports teams, due to wet weather.
"I know I'm not alone in urging people to do the right thing and stay off fields," the Mayor added.
Illegal e-bike use can be reported to police. Community members can report any incidences to your local police station, police assistance line on 131 444, crime stoppers on 1800 333 000 or, triple zero 000 in the event of any emergency.
Anyone caught riding an illegal electric powered bicycle or motorised device on a road or road-related area in NSW can face fines starting from $723. The fine for riding without a helmet is $344.
