Indooroopilly General Duties police have arrested a teen following reports of an illegal e-bike being ridden dangerously around Indooroopilly on August 2.
At approximately 8.30pm, it will be alleged officers located the teenage boy riding the vehicle in an Allwood Street fast food restaurant carpark.
It is alleged the boy was directed to stop by police before he attempted to flee on the illegal e-bike, knocking the officer and hitting a nearby parked car.
He was subsequently arrested without further incident.
The 15-year-old Pimpama boy was charged with one count each of dangerous operation of a vehicle, driving of a motor vehicle without a driver licence, vehicles used on the roads must be registered, and drive uninsured vehicle.
The boy has been dealt with under the provisions of the Youth Justice Act.
North Brisbane District Chief Inspector Corey Allen warns anyone found operating an illegal e-bike can face significant charges and fines.
"Everyone operating an e-bike or vehicle in public has a legal obligation to ensure it is complaint and road rules are being followed.
"I also encourage parents to be informed about the road classification of e-bikes they are buying for their children.
"These devices are not toys and in some circumstances are classified as a motor vehicle; requiring an operator's licence for use and vehicle registration.
"Ultimately, this is for the safety of all road users, including the rider themselves."
Brisbane police will continue to run targeted operations to detect and prevent the use of illegal e-bike to protect the safety of pedestrians, road users, and the riders themselves.
Riders are encouraged to familiarise themselves with electric bicycle rules, e-bike classifications, speed limits, and compliance.
Features of a non-compliant e-bike which upgrades it classification to a motor vehicle include:
- petrol-powered or internal combustion engine,
- an electric motor capable of generating over 200 watts (not an electrically power-assisted cycle),
- an electric motor that is the primary source of power,
- electric motor can help up to speeds in excess of 25km/h without cutting off,
- non-functioning pedals that do not propel the bike, or
- twist a throttle and ridden using motor power only, without using the pedals.
Non-compliant e-bikes may only be ridden on private property with no public access.
For additional information regarding e-bikes and penalties for illegal devices visit Electric Bikes | StreetSmarts – Queensland Government.
The Queensland Police Service is committed to reducing the number of lives lost on our roads.
Data shows that serious crashes can be significantly reduced when drivers recognise and avoid the 'Fatal Five' behaviours: speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue and distraction.
Road safety is everyone's responsibility. Learn more about staying safe on Queensland roads: https://www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
