South Australia uses the national pedal-assist rules and is reviewing them in 2026. A plain-English summary — general information, not legal advice.
The short version
- Power: up to 250 W continuous (or a 200 W power-assisted pedal cycle).
- Assistance reduces above 6 km/h and stops at 25 km/h, and stops when you stop pedalling.
- No licence, registration or CTP needed. No minimum age is set today.
- Helmet: an approved bicycle helmet is required.
- Footpaths: riders of all ages may ride on footpaths in SA.
- Public transport: e-bikes on Adelaide Metro trains only — not buses or trams.
What counts as a legal e-bike in SA
- Electrically power-assisted cycle: maximum continuous output 250 W, cutting out at 25 km/h.
- Power-assisted pedal cycle: motor output up to 200 W, can’t be propelled by the motor alone, under 50 kg with batteries, with a height-adjustable seat.
Bikes with petrol engines, or e-bikes with more power or that run without pedalling, can’t be ridden on SA roads or road-related areas. EN 15194 is not yet referenced in SA law — the 2026 review is consulting on adopting it.
Footpaths and shared paths
Cyclists of all ages may lawfully ride on footpaths in South Australia. Keep left on shared paths and give way to pedestrians. There is no footpath speed limit today; path speed limits are one of the topics in the 2026 review.
Adelaide Metro
- Trains only: e-bikes can go on trains, not buses or trams. Modified (converted) e-bikes are not permitted.
- Bikes go in an empty wheelchair space and must be moved for mobility-aid users.
- A peak concession fare per bike applies on weekdays before 9:00 am and 3:00–6:00 pm; otherwise bikes travel free.
- Folding bikes fully enclosed in a bag (up to 90 × 60 × 40 cm) are allowed on all services.
What might change: the 2026 review
From 26 June to 16 August 2026, the Department for Infrastructure and Transport consulted on a review of personal mobility devices and e-bikes. It asked about adopting EN 15194, a minimum age, whether riders should need a learner’s permit, path speed limits, police powers to seize and destroy non-compliant devices, and drug and alcohol testing. No changes had been announced as of October 2026.
Where to ride
The Riesling Trail in the Clare Valley, the Coast to Vines Rail Trail and the Barossa Trail are all popular on e-bikes. See all South Australian trails and SA e-bike shops.
Is my e-bike legal? Free 1-minute check →
Common questions
Can you ride an e-bike on the footpath in South Australia?
Yes. Cyclists of all ages may ride on footpaths in SA. Keep left and give way to pedestrians.
Do you need a licence for an e-bike in SA?
No licence, registration or CTP insurance is needed for a legal e-bike. A 2026 review asked whether to introduce a minimum age or learner’s permit; nothing has changed yet.
Can I take an e-bike on an Adelaide bus?
No. E-bikes can go on Adelaide Metro trains only, not buses or trams, unless it is a folding bike fully bagged.
Sources
- Riding a power-assisted bicycle — SA.GOV.AU (modified 16 Aug 2026)
- Review of Personal Mobility Devices (including e-scooters) and e-bikes — YourSAy
- Cycling — Law Handbook (Legal Services Commission of SA)
- Taking items on board — Adelaide Metro
This guide explains things in general terms. It is not legal advice. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.