Riding Safely

On 24th February, the Government announced the NSW Minister for Metropolitan Roads, Natalie Wards, has changed legislation in the Road Transport Act 2013 that limited the maximum power of e-bike motors allowed on public roads.

The Road Transport Legislation Amendment (Electric Skateboards and Bicycles) Regulation 2023 increased the permissible level of continuous running power from 250 watts to 500 watts. This is a signficant step forward with this advancing technology in line with Sparkd Motos new range of unique e-Bikes.

The popularity of electric bikes and scooters continues to grow every day. With so many new riders joining the phenomenon, it is crucial to consider safety. Whether you are a new rider or have some experience, getting a new electric bike or scooter is a great time to assess your riding and learn new skills that come with this technology.

Electric bikes and scooters can be a safe and reliable form of transportation with the potential for some of our models to replace petrol powered dirt bikes for private land use. You must be aware of ways to reduce danger every time you get on your e-bike or e-scooter. Anyone riding a Sparkd Motos product must adhere to general safety tips and any laws that apply in the area. Before each ride, ensure you understand the regulations and guidelines that will keep you and others around you safe on your electric bicycle or scooter.

 The following are guidelines to ensure the safety of you and others:

• On 24th February 2023, the Government announced the NSW Minister for Metropolitan Roads, Natalie Wards, had changed legislation in the Road Transport Act 2013 that limited the maximum power of e-bike motors allowed on public roads.

  The Road Transport Legislation Amendment (Electric Skateboards and Bicycles) Regulation 2023 increased the permissible level of continuous running power from 250 watts to 500 watts

• You must check and comply with the relevant road rules applicable to your area so that you are aware of where you are permitted to ride your e-bike/e-scooter. Under no circumstances are you to ride any e-bike/e-scooter, that is intended for private use, on any public paths or roads. 
• In NSW bicycles that meet the requirements for permitted e-bikes can be used on public roads and road related areas. There is a current trial in place for further consideration around having e-scooters and other similar devices shared on footpaths and roads. Please review the following link for the proposed scheme in NSW can be found here.
• It is essential to perform a proper bike inspection checking critical components are operational before each ride.
• No matter how short or long a trip, always wear protective safety gear and a helmet that meets Australian standards.
• When on shared paths, always respect and be considerate of pedestrians by taking extra care to stop and allow them a safe passage to pass you.
• When moving, you should limit the speed in which you are travelling so that you can safely stop without the need for power or brakes. Mechanical or electrical failures can occur. The loss of power can interfere with the operability of your e-bike/e-scooter. You need to be aware of how to stop in these situations.
• Like driving a car, riding a motor cycle or even a new bicycle, familiarise yourself with all the controls and additional settings of your Sparkd Motos product. Some modes are very powerful and highly sensitive. Start with the lowest power mode and move at a steady pace. Keep in mind to be gentle with the instruments to avoid from being thrown off or losing control.
• Never ride in adverse weather conditions that can increase the risk of injury to you and others around you.
• It is recommended that you do not ride alone when off road. Ensure you are equipped with the relevant safety devices where you can call for aid should anything go wrong.
• Do not ride under the influence of drugs/alcohol.

NSW Scooter Trial

The NSW Government recognises the benefits of electric motorised transport with movement towards a detailed proposal in place for several councils to partake in across NSW. The date is yet to be announced however, the proposed plan appears to be aimed for legalisation in a holistic approach taking into consideration the safety of the public and regulations around riders.

The NSW Government supports transforming personal mobility and boosting active transport. By 2056, two thirds of people in NSW will be living within 2km of an urban centre and devices such as electric scooters and other similar technologies have the potential to move people out of single occupant cars for first mile and last mile trips, freeing up capacity on the roads for people who need to travel further.

The appeal of these devices is that they are faster and require less physical effort than walking or cycling and people can use them for longer trips and over more difficult terrain, even with a lower fitness level. Thanks to the advancements and cost reductions in GPS and battery technologies, electric scooters have become increasingly affordable, catalysing the rapid global expansion of both commercial and individually owned electric scooters particularly with the introduction of rental services in the US in late 2017. ACT has since adopted the same practice with rentable e-scooters scattered all over the CBD available for hire via a Bluetooth application.

The complete proposal can be found on the NSW Transport website here.