Public demand for stricter e-bike regulations has been mounting in response to a surge in fatalities and risky behavior, particularly involving children.
Currently, e-bike regulations differ across regions, as there is no unified national framework outlining guidelines, including minimum age requirements for children to legally ride them.
In many states and territories, there is no specific age restriction for riding privately-owned e-bikes, provided they comply with road safety standards such as power and speed limits.
Generally, e-bike riders are subject to the same rules as cyclists, which include mandatory helmet use and adherence to footpath regulations.
Riders are expected to yield to pedestrians, including those using personal mobility devices.
It is also advised that younger children be supervised and kept away from busier roads to ensure their safety.
Only Western Australia, at this point, imposes an age-limit on ebike riders.
Users in that state must be at least 16 to ride an e-bike with its motor on.
Outside of privately-owned e-bikes, however, age limits become more widespread.
Shared fleets of rented e-bikes, found in cities around the country, often have age limits on their use imposed by the owning company.
It’s always best to check the conditions of hiring before using one.
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