Large electric bikes, known as fat bikes, are causing a stir on Australia's Gold Coast beaches. Popular among teenagers, these speedy bikes have wide tyres and seats for two, designed for sand and off-road terrain. However, their presence on footpaths has led to numerous complaints to councils, with fears growing for the safety of both riders and pedestrians.
Harold Scruby, chief executive of the Pedestrian Council, highlighted a lack of regulation and illegal modifications that turn these bikes into motorbikes on footpaths. He warned that technology is outpacing infrastructure and enforcement. The mayor of Sydney's Northern Beaches, Sue Heins, described the speeding as an "accident waiting to happen," noting that it is "a matter of time" before a pedestrian is killed.
Incidents have already occurred, including a three-year-old who suffered a broken leg after being hit by a teenager on a fat bike in Sydney's south in April. The Northern Beaches council has received over 80 complaints about speeding, near misses, and injuries, which the mayor believes is "only the tip of the iceberg." The bikes' silent operation adds an element of surprise, frightening pedestrians.
In Cronulla, Sutherland Shire mayor Carmelo Pesce reported witnessing teenagers riding fat bikes the wrong way on one-way streets without helmets, carrying two people, and reaching speeds of 40 km/h. NSW police have issued 244 cautions since last May and have taken some riders home to speak with their parents.
Francisco Furman, owner of Manly Bikes, has refused to sell fat bikes to parents of children as young as eight and has turned away teenagers seeking illegal modifications. He believes education is key, suggesting schools check bikes for modifications and police give safety talks. Rules vary by state, but generally, e-bikes must be pedal-powered with motors limited to 200-250W and a maximum speed of 25 km/h.
