EBikes Australia: Why There's No Excuse Not to Commute on Two Wheels

I’ve been a cycle commuter for years, ever since I entered the workforce. In fact, I’ve gotten so used to pedalling my way to work that it’s actually a novelty to catch the train or bus. I must look like an excited kid on public transport, while everyone else wears the blank, glazed expression that says, "I sit here every single weekday, please end my suffering."

For years, I’ve been trying to get my wife to cycle to work. She does great on bike trails during the weekend, but her main complaint is the brutal hills in Sydney—a point I couldn’t really argue with. Until now.

Behold… the electric bike (ebike)! But is buying an electric bike in Australia actually worth it, or is it just a lazy gimmick?

An ebike is basically a standard bicycle with a small motor and battery that assists you as you pedal. In Australia, electric bike laws state the motor assistance cuts out at 25km/h (above that, it’s 100% leg power), and you can easily travel 50km or more on a single charge. That is more than enough range for the average daily commute.

And the market is booming. There are over 100 models of ebikes available in Australia now, meaning finding the best electric bike for commuting has never been easier. Check out this guide to electric bikes in Australia to see how they work.

What are the benefits of cycling to work on an ebike instead of driving or catching the bus?

• 1. Freedom from schedules: No more waiting around for late buses or watching the train pull out of the platform as you run down the stairs. You leave when you want.
• 2. Passive fitness: You build cardiovascular health and leg strength without having to carve out extra time for the gym. Plus, you have to pedal or you won't get home—how's that for built-in motivation?
• 3. Major cost savings: Ditching public transport or parking fees can save you at least $10 a day. Over a year, that's thousands of dollars back in your pocket.
• 4. Kids at heart: Leaning into corners and whizzing along on two wheels is fun. Don't tell me you've forgotten what it feels like to ride a bike?

Of course, I hear you: "But what about the danger of being run over by an enraged motorist?" My answer is simple: avoidance. You’ll be surprised how many cycle lanes, shared paths, and quiet backstreets exist once you look. Google Maps has a dedicated cycling route planner that highlights the quickest and safest cycle paths from A to B, helping you steer clear of heavy traffic.

So, what's your excuse? As my wife said after her first ebike ride: "I’m almost enjoying this."

For more inspiration, check out Mr. Money Mustache's take on whether electric bikes are the gateway drug to commuting.