Electric bikes are booming in popularity across Australia, and it’s not hard to see why. They’re clean, cost-effective, fun to ride and, in many cases, faster than sitting in traffic. But if you’re thinking about buying one, you’ve probably got a few questions. How far can they go? Are they fast enough? What are the rules in NSW? And what’s it actually like to own one?
Here’s a breakdown of the most common questions about owning an e-bike, answered with real-world experience, local context, and the facts you need to know before buying.
1. How far can you go on a single charge?
Most quality e-bikes offer between 50–100km of range, depending on terrain, rider weight, battery size, and how much assistance you’re using. On my Seeker, I usually charge once a week and never worry about running out, even with daily rides around Bondi and the eastern suburbs. On my max distance test at Centennial Park I managed 80km on a single charge at the maximum pedal assist. Many brands calculate their distance on lower assist levels to increase distance numbers for marketing. Yes, True North e-bikes can go further, but realistically most users will be riding with maximum pedal assist!
2. How long does it take to charge an e-bike battery?
Most e-bike chargers take around 4-6 hours to fully charge. For most riders charging once a week will be enough unless they’re doing long commutes. To charge the battery you just unlock the battery, slide it out, and plug it in. The charger automatically switches off when the battery’s full to prevent overcharging. It’s simple, safe, and easy to do overnight.
3. Is 25km/h pedal assist fast enough?
For city riding? Absolutely. At 25km/h you’ll cruise past traffic, keep pace with cyclists, and feel totally in control. If you go much faster, you’re starting to enter motorbike territory, which brings added risk and legal headaches.
In NSW, once your e-bike goes above the 25km/h limit with motor assistance, it may be classified as an unregistered motorbike which means no insurance, no license to ride it, and potential legal consequences if you’re in an accident. It’s simply not worth it. The 25km/h limit is there for a reason: it’s safe, efficient, and fits the e-bike lifestyle.
4. How do e-bikes handle in the rain or at night?
Let’s face it, riding in the rain isn’t nearly as fun as riding on a warm sunny day, but good design makes all the difference when it comes to performance in less than ideal conditions. True North uses motorbike-style 4-inch wide tyres that handle well on wet roads, and the LED headlight and taillight are bright enough to make you feel seen and safe, even after dark.
In my experience, you feel far more visible and safe than you would on a regular push bike.
5. What kind of maintenance do e-bikes need?
E-bikes are relatively low-maintenance, especially hub-drive brands like the True North. Just keep the tyres pumped, the chain oiled, and the brakes in good nick. Give the battery and charger a check now and then, and you’re good to go.
There are fewer moving parts than a car or scooter, and you don’t need to worry about fuel, rego, or oil changes.
6. How do you keep an e-bike secure?
It’s an unfortunate truth that bike theft is the number one crime in NSW, so it’s really important to buy a high quality bike lock. In our experience, the gold standard in bike locks is determined by how long it takes a battery powered angle grinder to cut through the lock. Our preference is HipLock, and you can see why in this angle grinder test by Cycling Weekly:
7. Can you carry a passenger or gear?
Absolutely, as long as the bike is built for it. The Seeker, for example, comes with a dual saddle and foldable passenger foot rests. I regularly ride with my girlfriend on the back. She loves it. We use it for market trips, coffee runs, or just cruising around locally.
All True North e-bikes come with a solid rear rack for storage. You can easily attach accessories such as a surf rack, basket, or golf bag rack.
8. How much does it cost to run an e-bike?
Practically nothing. After six months of riding I haven’t spent a dollar on my Seeker. There has been no noticeable change to my electricity bill. We estimate that charging the battery costs less than $1 per charge, and maintenance costs such as oiling the chain and replacing brake pads are minimal. Compared to the rising cost of fuel, rego, tolls and parking, an e-bike is one of the cheapest ways to get around town.
9. Do you need a licence or registration to ride an e-bike in NSW?
No, as long as your bike complies with local rules. In NSW, a legal electrically power-assisted cycle (EPAC) can have up to 500W of continuous motor output. The power output must be:
- progressively reduced as the bicycle’s speed increases beyond 6km/h
- cut off when:
- your bicycle reaches a speed of 25km/h
- you stop pedalling and the speed exceeds 6km/h.
If it exceeds that, or can be powered without pedalling, it may be considered a motor vehicle and require registration. You can learn at Transport NSW.
10. Will I really use it that much?
In my experience? Way more than you expect.
I thought I’d use it just to avoid traffic. Instead, it’s become my go-to for everything from local errands, beach trips, weekend outings, and any time I just want to get some fresh air without stressing about parking or petrol.
And here’s something else I’ve noticed: people are skeptical… until they try it. Most people are thinking about Lime bikes or the clunky hire bikes you see scattered around cities. But once they test ride a well-built e-bike with real power and comfort, their entire attitude changes, usually in under a minute.
Final Thoughts
Owning an e-bike has changed how I live. It’s given me time back, saved me money, and made the everyday stuff more enjoyable. You don’t need to be super fit, or super green, just someone who wants an easier, smarter way to get around.
So if you’re weighing up whether to get one, my advice is simple: take a test ride. Once you do, you’ll understand why so many Aussies are making the switch.
