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Electric Bike Guide

E-Bikes in Australia: A comprehensive guide

What is an E-Bike?

An electric bike, or e-bike, is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor to assist with propulsion. Unlike motorcycles, e-bikes provide pedal assistance and are not powered solely by a motor.

An e-bike is like a normal bicycle with pedals, but with an electric component to assist with pedalling. You still change gears, like a normal bike – an e-bike has a display or controller attached to the handlebars (in addition to gear levers) where you can choose the level of assistance you need.

E-bikes are also known as pedelecs or EPACs; they have a continuous rated power output of 250 watts, help you pedal up to 25km/h and can roughly double the amount of power your legs put out.

They typically cover 50-100 km on a full charge.

Types of E-Bikes:

  1. Pedelecs (Pedal Electric Cycles): The motor assists only when you pedal and cuts out at 25 km/h.
  2. Throttle-Controlled E-Bikes: These bikes have a throttle that can power the bike without pedalling. They are allowed because of an older 200w regulation unique to Australia.
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E Bike parts 1

Legal Requirements and Regulations

General Rules:

  • Speed Limit: E-bikes are limited to 25 km/h for pedal-assist (pedelecs).
  • Motor Power: The motor must not exceed 250 watts.
  • Helmet Laws: Helmets are mandatory for all e-bike riders in Australia.
  • Bike Lanes: E-bikes are generally allowed in bike lanes, but local regulations may vary.
  • Registration: All legal e-bikes do not require registration, their use is the same as a conventional bicycle. If their power output exceeds the legal limits it cannot be ridden anywhere or registered unless it is modified to comply with Australian Design Rules (ADRs).

Local variations: Different states and territories may have additional requirements or variations. Always check the local rules where you plan to ride.

Benefits of riding an e-bike

Replace a car with an e-bike

• A viable and cost-effective alternative to a second car.

• E-bikes range in price; a good-quality European-designed e-bike costs around $5000.

• Commuting on an e-bike 20km a day, five days a week, costs about $20 a year in electricity.

• Approximately $300 a year for service & parts.

• No road tolls, no parking fees, no registration.

E-Bikes and health and wellbeing

Research has found that riding an e-bike can improve mental and physical health, happiness and overall sense of wellbeing.

• An e-bike will help you meet guidelines for physical activity.

• E-bikes make exercise fun.

• An e-bike can boost your mental health.

• E-bikes are easier to ride than a regular bike if you are inactive or recovering from injury.

Veloomi Daily3
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Yuba bikes Spicy curry verry berry ez monkey bars lifestyle hd 1

Choosing the Right E-Bike

Factors to Consider:

Purpose: Consider whether you need the bike for commuting, leisure, or off-road use.

Range: The distance an e-bike can travel on a single charge varies widely, so choose one that meets your needs.

Battery Life: Higher-capacity batteries will generally provide longer range but may also increase weight.

Motor Type: Hub motors are common in the wheels, while mid-drive motors offer better performance on hilly terrain.

Storage at your place: E-bikes need to be stored inside or under cover – do you have room for a box bike? Or would a compact bike suit your space more?

E-Bike Motors

Hub Motors

• A hub motor is integrated into the front or rear wheel.

• It offers quiet and even support and ensures easy maintenance and reduced wear.

• Ideal for casual riders on flat terrain and those looking for a budget-friendly option.

• Lower torque, suited for flat terrain.

• More affordable.

Bosch Hub motor 1
Bafang Hub Motor 1

Mid-drive Motors

• Mid-drive motors power the crank and use your bike’s gears.

• It offers optimal weight distribution, efficient power usage and a natural riding experience.

• Fully utilises bike gears.

• Best for steep hills, trails, heavier riders and carrying loads.

• Mid-drives use torque sensors that match your pedalling effort. The harder you push, the more help you get.

• Generally more expensive.

Mid Drive Bosch 2
Muli Shimano mid drive motor

E-Bike Batteries

Electric bikes are powered by Lithium-ion batteries, which are designed to be relatively light but store an amazing amount of energy for their size. Lithium-ion batteries are also used in mobile phones, laptops and electric vehicles.

Lithium-ion batteries

• Take 2 to 5 hours to charge, depending on how flat it is.

• Variables like riding style and carrying heavy loads, climbing hills, and riding in extreme weather affect your battery’s range per ride.

• A high-quality Lithium-ion battery typically provides 500 to 1000 full charge cycles (approx 20,000–56,000 km).

• Lithium-ion batteries naturally degrade over time even if left unused. A well-cared-for battery generally lasts between 3 and 8 years.

• Pedalling the bike does not charge the battery.

Charging and Safety

  • Use the right charger: Always use the charger supplied with the e-bike to avoid damage.
  • Charging locations: Charge in a well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials.
  • An E-Bike battery should not be left unattended while charging.
  • Do not leave a battery charging overnight or when you are away from home.
  • Do not charge an electric bike in the rain.
  • Do not charge the battery on an easily ignited surface (e.g. paper, on a bed, textiles, etc.) or in a flammable environment. There is a risk of fire due to the charger heating up during operation.

Learn more about e-bike batteries in our post here.

Maintenance and Care

Regular Maintenance:

  • Battery Care: Charge regularly and store in a cool, dry place. Avoid letting it fully discharge.
  • Tyre Pressure: Check and maintain proper tyre pressure to ensure optimal performance and safety. Is your battery range less than normal? Check your tyre pressures!
  • Brakes: Regularly inspect and adjust brakes to ensure they function properly.
  • Cleaning: Keep the bike clean, especially the motor and battery, to ensure longevity.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

  • Battery Problems: If the battery is not holding a charge, it may need to be replaced.
  • Motor Issues: If the motor is not providing assistance, check connections and consult the manual or a professional.
  • Electrical Failures: For any electrical issues, it’s best to seek professional help to avoid further damage.
  • Visit the shop where you purchased the bike for help.

Storage

  • Indoor Storage: Store your e-bike indoors to protect it from the elements and prevent theft.
  • Battery Storage: If not using the bike for an extended period, store the battery separately and keep it charged to around 50% to maintain health.
Pump tyres

Where to Buy and Test Ride

Retailers and Online Stores:

  • Local Bike Shops: Offer personalised advice and test rides.
  • Speciality E-Bike Stores: Provide a range of e-bikes and often have knowledgeable staff.
  • Online Marketplaces: These might be cheap, but remember an electric bike is a complex appliance, and it is good to have a physical store to take it to if you have any issues or need it maintained. Don’t buy overpowered e-bikes; the rider is responsible, not the store that sold it.

Test Riding

  • Always test ride to assess comfort, handling, and fit. We would much rather you made several trips to our store and test-ridden everything than rush into buying the wrong bike.
  • Ask about warranty and after-sales support before purchasing.

Safe Bike Riding Tips:

Please take the same precautions as when riding a regular bike…

  • Always wear a helmet. If carrying children, they must also wear a helmet.

  • If the bike is fitted with an optional toddler seat, the toddler must wear the seat belt in the seat.

  • A bike is a vehicle. Know the road rules that apply to all road users as well as those specifically for bike riders.

Our Electric Bikes

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Still have questions?

We are always happy to answer any questions, we are an inclusive, welcoming bike store that wants to see more people riding. You can also send us a text message or drop in to the store at any time to discuss and test ride any of our bikes.