Ban on converted e-bikes to come into effect on Sydney trains
A ban on the use of converted e-bikes on trains throughout Sydney and NSW will come into effect this weekend.
Riders caught bringing converted e-bikes onto Sydney Trains, NSW TrainLink, and Metro services will face fines of up to $1100 from Saturday.
It comes as the state government seeks to crack down on battery-related fires linked to e-mobility devices.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Two fires were linked to e-bikes at Liverpool and Blacktown train stations this year, while in Melbourne a fire broke out on a suburban train in March.
NSW Transport Josh Murray secretary said the change was not about limiting mobility.
“They are about protecting lives and importantly, protecting the continued safe operation of our metro and rail services,” he said.
Converted e-bikes are typically regular pedal bikes which have been fitted with an electric motor and batteries, and pose a higher risk due to their DIY construction, poor wiring, and second-hand parts.
The ban applies to any “fare-paid” areas, including trains and platforms, but not station concourses, lifts, or bike storage areas outside fare gates.
Riders transiting through community access gates will also not be impacted.
Fines will range from $400 to $1100, in line with offences relating to petrol-powered devices on trains.
The NSW government had initially considered a ban on all e-bikes on NSW trains.
While personal and shared e-bikes and other mobility devices were not impacted by the ban, Transport for NSW said it would “continue to monitor all e-micromobility incidents closely”.
Originally published as Ban on converted e-bikes to come into effect on trains across Sydney, NSW
