NSW bans converted e-bikes on trains to prevent fires
31.10.2025
Use of converted e-bikes has been banned in all trains in New South Wales following the enforcement of strict safety regulations due to a number of fires attributed to the converted bicycles.
This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.
Converted e-bikes face full ban on NSW rail network
According to the authorities, as of November 1, cyclists riding bicycles that have been modified in any way will face fines of up to $1,100 should they board the Sydney Trains, NSW TrainLink, and Metro services. This directive comes at a time when the use of self-assembled e-bicycles has been raising safety concerns. These bicycles involve the use of standard bicycles and self-assembled electric motors and batteries.
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According to the authorities, the measures come as a response to the recent fires at the Liverpool and Blacktown railway stations. In the incidents, bicycles that were made up of spare parts and flawed wires were involved. Such bicycles have not undergone safety tests from the manufactures since they consist of used spare parts. They therefore tend to have a higher risk of catching fire and exploding.
Josh Murray, the Secretary at Transport for NSW, revealed that the policy protects transport users and ensures that the whole railway network is safe. Murray argued that safety should keep improving as the world innovates and therefore the ban signals that untested modifications should not happen.
Rules for converted e-bikes concentrate on the safety of passengers
The ban is effective in all zones where fares must be paid for access. Nonetheless, the ban excludes concourses, elevators, as well as areas outside the barriers for storing bicycles. Cyclists can park their converted e-bikes outside the station but cannot access the paid zones.
The authorities are matching enforcement efforts with education. Transit police officers and the police force will conduct educational campaigns on the dangers of used converted batteries and how to dispose of them. This is because prevention saves lives. This informs the authorities’ stance that education must complement regulation.
In Australia, transport authorities across the country are enforcing strict safety guidelines related to e-mobility. According to the Fire and Rescue NSW agency, the number of fires involving lithium batteries has surged in the last two years due to the use of low-cost conversions.
New South Wales has the goal of encouraging sustainable transport and opposing dangerous Do-It-Yourself solutions. “Responsible innovation together with effective regulation” sums up the future strategy of the state in the area of clean urban mobility.
Source: www.dailymail.co.uk
News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:
What are converted e-bikes?
Converted e-bikes are standard bicycles modified with aftermarket electric motors and batteries. They are often built by amateurs and lack official safety certification.
Can I take converted e-bikes on NSW trains?
No. From November 1, NSW bans converted e-bikes from all trains, platforms, and fare-paid zones to prevent fire risks and protect passengers.
Why are converted e-bikes dangerous?
They often use reused or poorly wired batteries that can overheat, spark, or explode. For safe alternatives, use certified e-bikes that meet Australian safety standards.
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