New laws allowing police to seize and destroy illegal e-bikes will be introduced to Parliament today, as the NSW Government moves to crack down on dangerous riding behaviour across the state.
The proposed Road Transport Amendment (Non-registrable Motor Vehicles) Bill 2026 will give both police and authorised transport officers expanded powers to confiscate high-powered e-bikes that do not meet legal standards, with no option for owners to have them returned.
The legislation targets a growing number of throttle-only and modified devices that operate more like motorbikes than pedal-assisted bicycles, and have been linked to anti-social behaviour, community complaints and serious injuries.
Under the changes, any device that effectively performs like a motorbike can be seized and destroyed.
NSW will also become the first state to introduce roadside dyno testing, allowing authorities to check whether an e-bike exceeds the legal speed limit of 25km/h.
John Graham said the new powers are designed to improve safety without discouraging legitimate e-bike use.
“We’re a big step closer to seizing and crushing dangerous e-bikes today, which is a step towards making the people of NSW safer,” he said.
“We don’t want to discourage safe and healthy e-bike use, but we do want to discourage dangerous and illegal e-motorbike use – and these powers will do exactly that.
“If it behaves like a motorbike, it’s probably illegal and could end up in the crusher. So the message is simple, don’t buy an illegal e-bike.”
The laws build on a broader package of reforms aimed at tightening regulation around e-bikes, including reducing the maximum power output from 500 watts to 250 watts and enforcing national safety standards.
The bill is based on similar laws already in place in Western Australia and forms part of a broader effort by the NSW Government to address the rapid rise in high-powered e-bike use.
Police will also be supported by Transport for NSW in identifying illegal devices, with both agencies expected to work together on enforcement.
Yasmin Catley said the changes will give officers the tools they need to respond to increasing safety concerns.
“These changes mean police can step in and seize e-bikes being used dangerously or illegally so risks can be dealt with straight away,” she said.
“It’s about backing police to use their judgement and keeping people safe, while also making it clear that unsafe behaviour on our roads won’t be ignored.”
The government has also pointed to growing concerns in regional areas, with reports of high-powered e-bikes being ridden at speed through towns, parks and public spaces.
Jenny Aitchison said the issue is not confined to metropolitan areas.
“We know this is not just a Sydney issue. Communities across regional and rural NSW are dealing with the risks posed by illegal, overpowered e-bikes,” she said.
“This is a no second chances approach. If a bike is seized because it’s being ridden illegally, there is no way for the rider or their immediate family to get it back.
“That’s why families need to make sure they are buying legal e-bikes and that they know how those bikes are being used.”
The government is also warning parents to take care when purchasing e-bikes, noting that some devices sold as e-bikes are in fact illegal electric motorbikes due to throttle operation, excessive power or modified speed limiters.
If a device does not meet the legal definition of a pedal-assisted e-bike, it can be seized and destroyed even if it was purchased unknowingly.
Something going on in your part of the North Coast people should know about? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@nctimes.com.au