E-motorbike rules
Remember this: e-motorbikes which can’t be registered are known as non-compliant e-motorbikes or illegal devices. This is because they can’t be ridden anywhere except on private property.
Even if it looks like a bicycle with pedals, if it’s got a motor capable of more than 250W of continuous power, you may be on the way to receiving a fine of more than $1,640* [link to penalties section at bottom of page].
Types of E-motorbikes
E-motorbikes are high-speed motorised 2 and 3 wheelers. Theses are separate to e-bikes, which are low speed pedal assisted devices.
Road legal
E-motorbikes that comply with Australian Design Rules (ADRs) are registered for road use.
Road legal bikes have headlights, brake lights, indicators, mirrors, and a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
|
✅ |
Comply with standards |
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✅ |
Must be registered |
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|
✅ |
CTP Insurance – Class 12 (1 seat) or 13 (2 seats) |
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✅ |
Motorcycle licence |
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✅ |
General road use – Mopeds can’t use motorways |
Want to learn more about riding a motorbike in Queensland? Click here
Off Road
Some e-motorbikes are sold for off road -or “private property” use only. Just because they are for sale doesn’t mean they are safe.
Parents beware
Children have been killed riding non-compliant e-motorbikes. Parents can be fined for letting their child ride in public.
Non-compliant e-motorbike
Some models can be conditionally registered for very limited road use to access off road motocross tracks.
Otherwise, these bikes cannot be ridden on roads or paths anywhere in Queensland.
For information about legal e-bicycles visit Electric Bikes.
Licensing Requirements
Standard motorbike licensing requirements apply for e-motorbikes.
| Licence class | Min age | You can ride |
| C | 17 | Moped (max 50km/h) |
| RE | 18 | Learner approved motorbike |
| R | 20 | Any motorbike |
More information about motorbike licensing here.
Penalties
E-motorbike riders must follow all general road rules just like motorbike riders.
Speeding
Up to $1,919* and 8 demerit points
Not wearing a motorbike helmet
$500* and 3 demerit points
No motorbike licence
$556*
Illegal lane filtering
$500* and 3 demerit points
Unregistered vehicle
$267*
Uninsured vehicle
Up to $667*
*Fines can increase from 1 July each year. Check www.qld.gov.au/transport/safety/fines/cycling for current amounts.
Didn’t know demerit points apply? Check out https://www.qld.gov.au/transport/safety/fines/demerit/points for more information.
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
E-scooters and other Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs) are different to e-motorbikes and e-bikes. For more information about PMDs, head to: https://streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/initiatives/pmd-rules/
For more information about e-bikes, head to: https://streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/electric-bikes/