What is the Speed Limit for Ebike in Australia?

Electric bikes can go as fast as technology permits. But, local regulations can limit their maximum speed on the road.

So, what is the speed limit for ebike in Australia? Well, the local speed limit in Australia follows the standard observed in Europe (i.e. 25km/h) to safeguard you and other individuals on the road… but it’s not that simple!

Here’s everything you need to know!

In Australia, the speed limit for electric bikes (also known as e-bikes) is generally determined by the power of the motor. 

According to the Australian government’s Bicycle Network, e-bikes with motors that have a maximum power output of 250 watts are allowed to reach speeds of up to 25 km/h (15.5 mph). 

E-bikes with motors that have a maximum power output of 750 watts or more are classified as “restricted-speed” e-bikes, and they are not allowed on public roads.

It’s important to note that these rules can vary by state or territory, so it’s a good idea to check with your local authorities to confirm the specific speed limits and regulations that apply to e-bikes in your area.

In case you’re wondering, the 25kph speed limit means the software cuts off the motor once it reaches 25 kilometers per hour… or at the maximum speed of 6 kilometers per hour when the motor is solely propelling.

This speed limit came into effect in 2021 when the national government updated the requirements to follow the European Standard. 

However, many riders across the country have since been calling for a faster speed limit. 

They believe the speed restriction exposes riders at risk as it is too slow compared to other vehicles on the road. They also claim enacting a higher speed limit can encourage riders to use electric bikes to work, school, or other distant locations. 

Beginners may find this national speed limitation acceptable. Some users may even find it exciting as it allows them to travel a bit quicker and with reduced effort. Many even believe that this speed limit reduces the chances of serious injuries while riding.

But, not all riders are content with this speed limit. 

As previously mentioned, a majority of riders are calling on the national government to adopt a higher speed restriction for electric bikes. Their main argument is that riders using regular bicycles can easily surpass the existing ebike speed limit.

Safety is the driving force behind the ebike speed limit regulation. It is also the reason why we do not recommend illegally bypassing this limitation. 

Here are other reasons to refrain from increasing the speed of your electric bike. 

Dealing with insurance companies will be a challenge if you are using an overclocked electric bike. As bypassing the speed limit increases the chances of an accident, it only puts insurance companies at great risk. 

You will also void your electric bike’s warranty when you derestrict your bike. As a result, manufacturers will not repair any issues once they detect tampering.

Tampering your electric bike impacts its integrity and lifespan. 

Going beyond your ebike’s capability puts great pressure on the bike. An electric bike that goes beyond the manufacturer’s speed limit can overload other components, which will result in quick wear and tear. 

An electric bike that goes beyond 25 kilometers per hour means you no longer have an electric bike. 

Under Australian law, a bicycle with this speed falls under the classification of a motorcycle. This new classification means you must comply with a new set of requirements.

Removing the speed restrictions on an electric bike may cause the motor to draw more power from the battery, which can shorten the overall lifespan of the battery and reduce the bike’s range.

We understand the adrenaline rush given by riding electric bikes. The wonders of discovering new places and reaching destinations in the quickest time possible. But your safety is also a primary concern when riding. 

Observing the speed limit is not the only way to reduce the chances of road accidents. Here are other ways to safely ride your electric bike:

Always wear a well-fitting helmet. 

This suggestion also applies even on short rides, like a trip to the grocery. We recommend getting a helmet specially made for electric bike riders. This protective gear is similar to those worn by professional cyclists and provides greater protection against impacts.

Wear clothes that make you stand out in any given landscape, especially when riding in the city. The reason behind this is too many things are happening in an urban setting. 

A brightly colored shirt or helmet makes it easier for other riders or drivers to notice you on the road. We also advise including reflective elements on your gear, especially if you frequently ride during nighttime.

If you are new to electric bikes, we recommend braking earlier. 

Ebikes tend to be heavier compared to traditional bicycles. This additional weight adds to the factors slowing down the brake mechanism of your ride. 

Additionally, suddenly braking, particularly in wet conditions, could make you lose your balance.

Avoid looking over your smartphone to lessen distraction. It is also a common mistake for new riders to marvel at their surroundings. 

However, being engrossed with the view takes you away from seeing what’s on the road, which increases the chances of an accident.

Use hand signals if your electric bike does not come with light indicators. Letting your fellow road users know your next move reduces the likelihood of collision. Hand signals observed are similar to those used when riding a traditional bicycle.

Additionally, we recommend using electric bikes that cut their motor when it reaches the mandated speed restriction. We also emphasize picking those integrated with standard safety features.

Ensure your electric bike is properly working before taking a ride. It is advised to have it serviced every six to 12 months. 

Apart from periodically bringing it to a trusted service provider, you also need to check every component before riding to ensure tires are properly inflated, chains are oiled and other components are working as they should.

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With plenty of options, you can easily find an electric bike that runs under 25 kilometers per hour. These bikes also offer every feature that riders, both new and experienced, need.

Engwe is one of the highly trusted electric bike brands in Australia. It has made a name for itself by offering high-quality electric bikes around the world… and now it’s now planning to change the ebike landscape in Australia.

Engwe electric bikes stand out for being well-made, for their use of high-quality materials, and lots of useful features. 

For riders in Australia, the company offers you two choices to help you stay below the ebike speed limit – the C20 and the C20 Pro. Here are some of the standout features of these Engwe electric bikes. 

The Engwe C20 features a motor capable of providing a speed of zero to 25 kilometers per hour. The maximum speed it provides ensures you do not go beyond what the Australian law mandates. 

Apart from helping you prevent overspeeding, the C20 also comes with the following features:

• Shimano 7-speed gear flywheel
• 160mm mechanical brakes
• 36V 10.4Ah detachable battery
• Aluminum alloy frame
• LED instrument

The other option is the Engwe C20 Pro. This electric bike also offers a maximum speed of 25 kilometers per hour. The following are other stand-out features of this electric bike:

• 36V 250W octagonal motor
• Dynamic shock absorbing system
• A 7-speed Shimano gear system
• Power-off disc brakes
• LCD display/ instrument

We highly recommend you to leave the speed restriction in place on an electric bike and to ride within the limits set by the manufacturer. This can help to ensure the safety of the rider and others, and can also help to avoid any legal or warranty issues.

You’ll not only be complying with the law, but will also ensure that you or other people using the road are not endangered. 

Regardless of which electric bike you are riding, the speed limit is not the only measure to keep you safe. Being mindful of the environment keeps you safe. Focusing on the road, ensuring your bike is in tip-top shape, and observing traffic laws help take you places safely.

With this, we’ll sign off. Happy riding!