How Fast Do Electric Bikes Go in Austrlalia?

Electric bikes are booming across Australia. You’ve probably seen them zipping past you on bike paths, cruising effortlessly up hills, or lined up outside your local café. But one question keeps popping up for new and curious riders alike: how fast do electric bikes actually go?

The answer depends on a few things—your bike’s motor, local laws, the terrain, and even how much effort you put in. Whether you’re commuting, riding trails, or just after a bit of extra push on hills, understanding how e-bike speed works can help you ride smarter and safer.

Let’s start with the basics. In Australia, for a bike to be considered an “electric bicycle” under the law, it has to meet a few key criteria.

Most importantly, it must be:

• with maximum continuous power output of 250 watts (500w in NSW)

• Limited to 25 km/h with pedal-assist (meaning the motor only helps while you’re pedalling)

This setup is called a Pedelec system, and it’s what most road-legal e-bikes use across the country. Once you hit 25 km/h, the motor assistance cuts out—but you can still pedal faster on your own steam.

So, how fast can an e-bike go legally in Australia?

Under national road rules, motor assistance is only allowed up to 25 kilometres per hour. Once you reach that speed, the motor automatically stops helping, and it’s up to your legs to keep things moving.

You can still go faster—on a downhill or with a tailwind, for example—but you won’t have motor support once you pass the 25 km/h mark. It’s worth noting:

• There’s no penalty for going faster using your own pedalling

• The limit only applies to motor-assisted speed, not total speed

Some states may have slight variations around shared path use or throttle regulations, but the assisted speed limit of 25 km/h is a national standard.

One of the most common questions new riders ask is, “Can my e-bike go faster than 25 km/h?” The answer is yes—but not with help from the motor.

Most e-bikes, especially quality models, are geared to allow higher speeds with pedal effort alone. If you’ve got good fitness and a decent surface, cruising at 30 or even 35 km/h is possible—just don’t expect the motor to help once you pass that 25 km/h cap.

Many riders naturally exceed the limit on flat roads or downhill stretches, but the motor won’t kick back in until your speed drops below the assisted threshold.

Several factors come into play when we talk about how fast your electric bike can go. Some are mechanical, others are environmental:

• Motor type and power: The legal limit for maximum continuous power output is 250 watts, but some are adjusted to provide smoother acceleration or increased torque.

• Battery condition: A healthy, fully charged battery will deliver consistent performance. An old or drained battery can reduce speed and power output.

• Rider weight and effort: Heavier riders may experience slightly slower acceleration. If you're putting in more pedalling effort, you’ll go faster.

• Terrain and surface: Hills, gravel, sand, or strong headwinds will all slow you down.

• Tyres and pressure: Smooth, properly inflated tyres reduce rolling resistance and help you maintain higher speeds.

It’s all about balance. Knowing how these elements work together helps you get the most out of your ride.

Here’s where things get interesting. If you’re riding your e-bike on private property, such as a farm, large acreage, or off-road trails, the 25 km/h limit doesn’t apply.

That means:

• You can use higher-powered e-bikes (750W or even 1000W motors)

• There are no legal restrictions on top speed—only your comfort and control

• Off-road enthusiasts often use these bikes for trail riding, beach cruising, or rural work

Keep in mind, though, that just because you’re not on public roads doesn’t mean safety flies out the window. Wear a helmet, keep your brakes sharp, and remember that higher speeds mean more stopping distance and less reaction time.

Also, if your bike is modified for off-road speed, don’t use it on public roads—it’s illegal, and you could face fines or void your insurance.

Speed feels great—but it comes at a cost. When you ride fast, your motor and battery work harder, and that means you’ll drain your charge quicker.

Here’s how it works:

• Riding at 15–20 km/h on pedal assist is very efficient

• Pushing constantly near the 25 km/h limit drains the battery faster

• Strong acceleration or riding into wind increases energy use

The faster you go, the more power the motor pulls. For longer rides, it’s often smarter to cruise at a moderate speed and extend your range rather than flooring it the whole way.

Want to go further? Try easing into assist modes, using eco settings on flat terrain, and pedalling more on downhills. It’s all about finding that balance between speed and efficiency.

Not necessarily. While speed is fun (and helpful on longer commutes), more speed also brings more risk.

Here’s what to consider:

• Stopping distance increases the faster you go

• Braking hard at speed can feel unstable, especially in traffic

• Control is reduced when cornering or riding on uneven paths

Some riders modify their e-bikes to bypass the 25 km/h limit. Be aware—this is illegal on public roads in Australia and can void your warranty or insurance. It also puts you and others at risk, especially if your e-bike isn’t built to handle those speeds safely.

If you need more speed, consider off-road use on private property—or invest in fitness and learn how to pedal faster once the motor taps out.

Let’s clear up a few common misunderstandings:

“E-bikes are just scooters.”
Wrong. E-bikes are pedal-powered with motor assist. You still have to pedal to make them go.

“You don’t need to pedal at all.”
Most legal e-bikes in Australia require active pedalling. While some e-bikes come with built-in throttles, these are generally intended for use on private property or off-road adventures.

“The faster the better.”
It depends. Yes, speed helps on commutes. But too much speed on a lightweight frame can make the bike harder to control. Speed should match the riding environment.

If you're pushing higher speeds—legally or off-road—keep these tips in mind:

• Wear a certified helmet, no matter where you're riding

• Upgrade to hydraulic disc brakes for better stopping at speed

• Stay visible with bright clothing and lights

• Keep your tyres inflated and your brakes maintained

• Slow down in traffic, intersections, and downhill curves

A good rider knows when to push and when to pull back. Fast riding is fun—but safety always comes first.

So, how fast do electric bikes go? Legally, motor assistance in Australia stops at 25 km/h. But with your own pedalling, a bit of downhill luck, and a quality build, you can go faster—especially on private property or off-road trails.

From legal limits and terrain to motor size and fitness, there are plenty of factors at play. The key is to ride smart, ride safe, and know your bike’s limits. Whether you're cruising to work or exploring the backroads, enjoy the ride at the speed that suits your journey best.