E-wheeling
E-bikes and e-scooters are emerging as an efficient and low energy way to travel in Brisbane. The ‘E’ stands for electric, and there are various options available across the city. This page focuses on two of the most popular: electric bikes and electric scooters.
E-mobility is a key initiative of the Transport Plan for Brisbane – Implementation Plan 2018 aimed at encouraging greater use of e-bikes, e-scooters and emerging active transport options, and ensuring safe practices and behaviour when sharing bikeways and pathways.
Electric bikes (e-bikes)
Electric bikes have a small motor powered by a rechargeable battery, but also keep you pedalling so you get the best of both worlds: the benefits of exercise and a power boost when you need it. Recent research confirms the exercise benefits for people who switch from driving cars to riding e-bikes.
E-bikes are great for tackling hills, heat and humidity, which means you can keep riding throughout the year and wear ordinary clothes.
They cost more upfront than an average non-electric bike, but are very cheap to run, and much more economical over a year than running a car. Charging can cost as little as 30 cents for every 100km, and even less if your energy source includes solar panels.
See below for how to get yourself a discount on an e-bike.
Electric scooters (e-scooters)
Similar to an e-bike, an e-scooter has a small motor with a rechargeable battery, which provides the user with power to increase their speed compared with an ordinary scooter.
Currently in Brisbane, there are two companies offering both e-scooters and e-bikes are part of a share scheme. Visit the links below to find out more:
Where to use electric bikes and scooters in Queensland
| Local street* | Road (other) | Shared pathway | Bike-only pathway | On-road bike lane | Green street** | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bike | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Electric bike | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Electric scooter | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
* A local street has a speed limit of 50km/h or less, and no dividing line or median strip.
** A green street is designed to prioritise bike riding and other active transport, while also permitting motor vehicles to use the space.
Important rules
The Queensland Government’s road rules set out where and how e-mobility devices may be used. Ensure you understand all the requirements before setting out.
E-mobility devices can only be used on local streets with speed limits of 50km/hr or less and no line markings. You are not permitted to ride an e-scooter on main roads or streets in the Brisbane CBD.
When riding an e-mobility device on a path, you must:
- Keep left and give way to pedestrians.
- Travel at a speed that allows you to stop safely to avoid colliding with a pedestrian.
- Travel at a safe distance from a pedestrian so you can avoid a collision.
- Keep left of oncoming bicycles and other personal mobility devices.
- Only use the bicycle side of a shared path.
Buying an electric bike or scooter
As a member of Cycling Brisbane, you can take advantage of discounts to buy or maintain an e-bike. View the offers available to purchase an e-bike or scooter.
Try before you buy
Cycling Brisbane runs regular workshops where you can learn more about e-bikes, and try one as part of a guided ride. Book your free workshop (e-bike costs $10 to borrow).