Documents and Links
Here are some useful links to help you get your head around the Australian regulations affecting motorised bikes.
16 April 2010: Update on the proposal for a new definition for power-assisted pedal cycles in Australia
From: RTA's Safer Vehicles Branch
The RTA's Safer Vehicles Branch has submitted papers during the second week of March 2010 to both the federal Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government (DITRDLG) and the National Transport Commission proposing amendments to the Australian Design Rules and Australian Road Rules respectively.
The main changes proposed are: to increase the power output to 250 watts; emphasise that this is the maximum continuous rated power; that the power is measured at the wheel; and that the power output cuts off at a speed no greater than 25 km/h or sooner if the cyclist stops pedalling. It also allows slow-speed assist, ie the motor may operate without the rider pedalling up to a speed of 6km/h. Overall, this aligns the specifications with power assisted pedal cycles supplied in Europe, and the paper recommends using the European Standard EN 15194 as a 'deemed to comply' technical document.
The matter is tabled for discussion at a meeting of the Australian Road Rules Maintenance Groupin April, and we understand that it is being reviewed by DITRDLG.
18 April 2010: Update
Some of you may be aware of a project currently in the hands of the NSW Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA). This has been going on since early 2008. The latest publicly available information is the November communique of the Australian Bicycle Council.
Australian Bicycle Council Communique November 2009
There is not much there, only:
POWER ASSISTED BICYCLES
The review, being lead by NSW RTA, is continuing.
