E-bike and electric trike rules in the NT

In the NT, an e-bike can be ridden in public places if it's one of these (NT Government: electric scooters and bikes):

• Electrically power-assisted cycle (EPAC): an e-bike that meets the European safety standard EN 15194, with up to 250W and help up to 25 km/h.
• Power-assisted bicycle: an e-bike with a maximum power output of 200W.

Anything else is a "non-complying motor vehicle". Riding one on roads or paths can mean fines for driving an unregistered or uninsured vehicle, demerit points, or losing your licence (NT Government: electric scooters and bikes).

The national definition. Australia's national vehicle standards define an electrically power-assisted cycle (EPAC): a motor of up to 250W continuous rated power whose help eases off above 6 km/h and stops at 25 km/h, and stops when you're not pedalling above 6 km/h (Australian Design Rule definitions). Most states use this definition for e-bikes, and some add their own requirements, so it's worth checking the local rules below.

How the NT compares with the national definition: the national EPAC definition sets limits (250W, 25 km/h). The NT Government's guidance describes a 250W EPAC as an e-bike that meets the European standard EN 15194. These rules are about riding in public places.

No licence or registration is needed for an e-bike that meets the NT rules. These e-bikes follow the rules for bicycles (NT Government: electric scooters and bikes).

Yes. On a footpath or bike path, keep to the left of oncoming riders and pedestrians, give way to people walking, and use your bell or horn to warn others (NT Government: bicycle safety).

An electric trike is wider than a bike, so slow down early near people, driveways and corners.

Sit on the seat facing forward, unless your bike is designed otherwise. If you're 16 or older, you can carry a child under 10 in a bike trailer if it's safe and the child wears a helmet (NT Government: bicycle safety).

For shopping and cargo, stay within the max total load on the product page.

Helmets: if you're 17 or under, wear an approved helmet whenever you ride in a public place or on a footpath. If you're over 17, you need one when riding on the road. The NT Government recommends always wearing one, and so do we (NT Government: bicycle safety).

On your bike: a working bell or horn, brakes, a white front reflector and a red rear reflector. At night, a white front light and a red rear light, each visible from 200 metres.

• No change to the e-bike rules has been announced.

We'll update this page if the rules change.

What this means for e-trike buyers in the NT: electric trikes follow the same e-bike rules in the NT. The 500W version is for private property and off-road use only.

The NT applies the Australian Road Rules to bicycles, and electric trikes follow the same e-bike rules described above (NT Government: electric scooters and bikes).

Ridewave electric trikes come in a 250W version and a 500W version.

• 250W: pedal assist set up to EN 15194 limits: help eases off above 6 km/h and stops at 25 km/h, with a start-up throttle up to 6 km/h.
• 500W: doesn't meet the e-bike rules in the NT, so it can't be ridden on roads, bike paths, shared paths or footpaths. It's for private property and off-road use only, where permitted.

Before using an e-bike or electric trike, check the applicable local laws relating to your intended use of the vehicle on roads and road related areas.

• Where will they ride? Roads, bike paths, shared paths or footpaths, following the rules above.
• Getting on and off: a low step-through frame makes it easier.
• Storage: will it fit in the garage, unit or car? Every Ridewave e-trike folds.
• What will they carry? Shopping, a passenger, or a pet.
• Try before you buy: book a test ride together.

• Pedal assist up to 25 km/h: the motor helps while you pedal.
• Half-twist start-up throttle: helps you get moving from a stop, up to 6 km/h only.
• Rear differential and hydraulic disc brakes on all three wheels.
• Folds for storage and transport.
• Delivery: Delivery to the NT is $500.

Each product page lists the motor for that model. See our electric trikes

The same rules apply to two-wheel e-bikes. Our Miniwave folding e-bike is certified to EN 15194.

The easiest way to decide is to try one. Book a test ride and we'll let you know the options near you, such as local stockists and brand advocates where available. Test rides are by appointment.

• NT Government: electric scooters and bikes, checked 16 October 2026
• NT Government: bicycle safety, checked 16 October 2026
• Australian Design Rule definitions (EPAC), checked 16 October 2026

Riding in another state or territory? See the rules in NSW, Victoria, QLD, SA, WA, Tasmania, the ACT, or e-bike rules across Australia.

• 16 October 2026: page published, checked against official government guidance and legislation.