E-Bike Safety

Tuesday, 30th June 2026 at 7:33am

Police are seeing increasing numbers of young people illegally riding high-powered edirt bikes (motorcycles), posing serious safety risks.

Before purchasing, parents and caregivers should understand the legal requirements and understand that many models being sold today CANNOT be used in public places such as roads and footpaths.

Please click HERE to view the New Zealand Police E-Bikes (Bicycles) vs E-Dirt bike (motorcycle) important safety advice, outlining the key points for parents, caregivers, and students.

What is NOT a legal E-bike?

• Any e-bikes that exceed a motor power output of 300W.
• Any e-bikes that can move without pedaling (limited throttle only start for stability prior to pedaling is permitted).
• Electric and petrol dirt bikes and “choppers” without pedals (which are a moped or motorcycle) and pedal assisted mopeds. If speed capability ≤ 50km/h it’s a moped, if speed capability > 50 km/h it’s a motorcycle.

Dirt bikes and electric-powered bikes over 300W must comply with New Zealand Road Rules. Where vehicles are used dangerously, illegally or in an antisocial manner, riders may face charges for unlawful or dangerous driving. Vehicles that are not road-legal or are being used unlawfully can be seized or impounded.

Police will continue to engage with young riders and take an education-first approach. However, where anti-social riding behaviour is identified, enforcement action will be taken.