A 15-year-old boy in Queensland has been charged after allegedly modifying a BMX bicycle into a homemade electric motorbike boasting a powerful 1000-watt motor. The incident occurred in Gympie on July 15 when police stopped him while riding this unconventional vehicle.
Authorities claim the boy altered the BMX by removing the pedals and adding electric motors that are controlled via a throttle. Each motor reportedly exceeds 1000 watts, which contravenes regulations for e-bikes, as these can only operate on roads if the primary power source is pedalling, and the motor’s wattage remains at 250 or less.
According to Wide Bay Burnett District Inspector Shane Draper, the modifications have transformed the bicycle into a motorbike, which lacks the essential components such as indicators, reflectors, lights, a bell, or brakes. Consequently, this classification necessitates that the vehicle be properly registered and insured, and mandates that the rider possess a valid driver’s licence.
The teenager is facing charges for several offences, including driving a vehicle without a licence, operating an unregistered vehicle, and riding an uninsured vehicle. He is scheduled to appear in Gympie Children’s Court on August 14.
In light of the incident, police are intensifying efforts to tackle the illegal use of e-bikes and motorbikes in the region. Inspector Draper has urged the local community to report any suspicious activities to law enforcement, emphasising the dangers posed by inexperienced riders operating powerful vehicles.
He highlighted that “a powerful bike in the hands of an unlicensed and inexperienced driver is extremely dangerous not only for the rider but also for other road users.” Beyond enforcement actions, the police are dedicated to educating the community about e-bike regulations to promote safe road practices.
Draper particularly calls on parents to familiarise themselves with e-bike laws and to engage their children in understanding and adhering to these crucial rules.