Greenslips for e-bikes

Did you know an e-bike is not always a bicycle? Crashes and injuries are increasing as more people are riding them. We explain what is an e-bike and what laws apply when you ride one.

When is an e-bike not a bike?

There are different types of e-bikes and not all of them are bicycles.

An e-bike is an Electrically Power-Assisted Cycle or EPAC:

• It has a motor to help you while pedalling, but starts to taper off as you pedal faster.
• The motor cuts out when your bike reaches 25 kmph.

How to define an e-bike or EPAC

Aren’t throttle e-bikes legal?

Yes, but only if the throttle is restricted to 6 kmph (Walk Assist) or provides power while you are pedalling (Pedal-Activated Boost). That means if you can use a throttle to go above 6 kmph without pedalling, it’s illegal.

Many e-bike injuries are serious because they’re more like motorcycle collisions than bicycle collisions. Most e-bike crashes are caused by high speeds, not wearing protective gear or affected by alcohol.

What are the new laws in NSW?

From 1 February 2026, e-bikes have to meet 2 new standards:

• Certified batteries and motors – to prevent fires
• Reduced power limit – from 500W to 250W.

Remember, no adult on any kind of bicycle is currently allowed to ride on the pavement in NSW, unless they are supervising a child under 16.

What kinds of insurance are there for e-bikes?

Some cycling bodies, like Bicycle NSW, provide third-party insurance for cyclists. While home and contents insurance may cover liability, watch for policies that exclude ‘motorised vehicles’.

Currently, there is no requirement to buy a green slip for an e-bike.

The government is investigating types of insurance for e-bikes. They will also consider affordability, especially as most e-bike owners are aged 25-34. It’s possible delivery riders will be the first to need green slips for e-bikes.

See Should e-bikes have a green slip? 

If you have a motorcycle (over 250W), compare your cheapest green slip.