E-bikes, particularly those posing a “higher fire risk,” will soon be banned from New South Wales trains. This decision comes after numerous incidents linked to the battery technology powering these bikes. Starting November 1, commuters traveling with a converted e-bike on Sydney Train, Trainlink, or Metro services will face penalties ranging from $400 to $1,110.
The ban specifically targets converted e-bikes—pedal bicycles retrofitted with aftermarket batteries and motors—and applies to both trains and platforms. The state government reached this decision after extensive discussions with stakeholders and a public consultation that garnered nearly 3,000 responses.
Public Consultation and Government Response
Transport Minister John Graham emphasized that the consultation’s “overwhelming message” was against a blanket ban on all e-bikes. Instead, the focus is on converted e-bikes, which pose greater fire risks due to “DIY installations, inadequate wiring, and the use of second-hand batteries, as well as incompatible or poor-quality components.”
“Taking out the highest risk e-bikes is a sensible and balanced step, but we will watch this space very closely and take further action if necessary,” said Minister Graham.
Fire Incidents and Safety Concerns
The lithium-ion batteries powering e-bikes and other electric “micromobility” devices have been linked to a concerning number of fires. Fire and Rescue NSW reported 77 incidents this year alone, resulting in 16 injuries. However, detailed data on how many of these fires involved converted e-bikes remains unavailable.
According to the state government, two specific incidents were attributed to e-bikes—one at Liverpool Station in August and another in a lift at Blacktown Station in April. Notably, only the latter involved a converted e-bike. Additionally, a separate incident occurred in Melbourne on a metro train in March.
Reactions and Implications
Bicycle NSW, a non-profit organization representing the state’s bicycle riders, described the policy as a proportionate response. Chief Executive Peter McLean highlighted that the real risk lies with kit-modified e-bikes.
“It may be disadvantaging lower socio-economic users of bicycle riders, so there is a small chance of that,” McLean noted, acknowledging the potential impact on those who cannot afford new e-bikes.
McLean also pointed out the importance of purchasing well-known brands, as e-bikes have been available long enough to foster a second-hand market. “These devices provide a very, very significant benefit to many people across society … from food delivery to social connection to multimodal connection,” he added.
Implementation and Future Regulations
Transport for NSW staff will undergo training to enforce the new policy, with plans to “conduct hotspot blitzes” once it takes effect in November. Meanwhile, the state government is in the process of drafting legislation to improve the regulation of shared e-bikes.
This development follows growing safety concerns and aims to mitigate risks associated with converted e-bikes on public transport. As the situation evolves, further measures may be introduced to ensure commuter safety and address the complexities of e-bike usage in urban environments.
