Converted e-bikes are to be banned from NSW trains as of November as concern grows over lithium-ion battery fires.
As of November 1, these e-bikes will not be allowed on Sydney Trains, NSW Trainlink and Metro services; penalties will range from $400 to $1110 (similar to those for carrying petrol-powered devices).
The NSW Government says that the ban targets converted e-bikes, which it defines as regular pedal bikes that have been fitted with batteries and motors.
These are at higher risk of electrical fires due to DIY installations, poor wiring and use of second-hand batteries and poor parts, the government says.
Other e-bikes, shared e-bikes and mobility devices will not be affected but Transport for NSW says it is monitoring all electric bike and scooter incidents closely.
The ban will not apply to travel on concourses, lifts, escalators or bike storage facilities outside gates nor will riders using gates be affected.
The ban follows talks with rail and fire authorities, unions, e-bike users, delivery services, shared scheme operators and passengers.
NSW Transport Minister John Graham says they are taking “the highest risk e-bikes out of train carriages”.
“The overwhelming message from the consultation was that banning all e-bikes from trains would go too far,” he says.
“Taking out the highest risk e-bikes is a sensible and balanced step but we will watch this space very closely and take further action if necessary,” he says.
“E-bikes are becoming more popular and playing an increasing role in our transport network. Our aim is to allow people to enjoy their advantages whilst keeping everyone safe.
“It’s a timely reminder ahead of Christmas – if you’re thinking of getting an e-bike, take a look at the Fair Trading website and look for a quality bike, to make sure you’re investing in safety.”
Transport for NSW Secretary Josh Murray says unrestricted use of electric mobility devices poses new risks to safe rail operations.
“This isn’t a matter of jumping at shadows,” he says.
“Our safety experts have been monitoring this emerging situation very closely, and we’re taking a sensible approach in consultation with our rail and transport operators.
“Put simply, the idea of blocked aisles, confined spaces and battery fires from risky devices don’t mix.”
Transport for NSW is to train staff, conduct hotspot blitzes and increase public messaging as well.
The NSW and Victorian transport ministers have also asked Canberra for their support in strengthening a national approach to e-device safety.
E-BIKES FIRES
Transport for NSW has been monitoring the risk of lithium-ion fires after recent e-bike fires: at Liverpool Station in August, Blacktown Station in April (which involved a converted e-bike) and on a Melbourne suburban train in March.
So far in 2025, Fire and Rescue NSW have reported 77 e-micromobility battery fires.
On September 10, Fire and Rescue NSW contained a major fire in an e-bike shop opposite Central Station at Chippendale, Sydney.
Just after 7am, FRNSW were alerted to flames and smoke; 12 trucks and around 40 firefighters worked for about 40 minutes to control the blaze and prevent it from spreading to six levels of residential units above.
All occupants were safely evacuated with no injuries reported.
The FRNSW says the premises had to be monitored to ensure there is no reignition as lithium-ion batteries can reignite.
TRANSPORT FOR NSW: Click here to visit their website.
