NSW crushes 23 illegal e-bikes in public display of new seizure powers

Under newly-adopted seizure powers, NSW Police and Transport for NSW seized 23 e-bikes and hauled them to a Blacktown wrecking yard where they were crushed into scrap metal. Officials presented the destruction as a stark visual deterrent after videos showed teenagers riding illegal bikes on public infrastructure. Transport Minister John Graham warned that illegal bikes could end up as shrapnel, while Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison stressed the danger to riders and pedestrians.

One of the destroyed bikes could exceed 90 km/h and had been in the possession of a 14-year-old. The law, introduced by the Minns government in March, mirrors powers used in Western Australia and follows a similar Queensland crushing ceremony. Bicycle Industries Australia’s Peter Bourke said enforcement is needed but education on safe e-bike use should be a priority.