Police are appealing for information following a serious e-bike crash in Lake Heights that left a man critically injured.

At approximately 2:30pm on Sunday, 12 January 2025, emergency services were called to Weringa Avenue, Lake Heights, where a man had fallen from an e-bike. Officers from Lake Illawarra Police District arrived to find a man, believed to be in his 30s, suffering from serious head injuries.

NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the man at the scene before he was airlifted to hospital in critical condition. The rider, who has not yet been formally identified, remains in hospital. A crime scene was established, and the Crash Investigation Unit is leading inquiries into the incident.

The man is described as being of Pacific Islander/Maori appearance, aged 25-35 years, about 175cm tall, of large build, unshaven, with short, neat hair. At the time of the crash, he was wearing a black Nike jacket and a red t-shirt.

Police have released an image of the e-bike involved in the crash and are urging anyone with information about the incident or the identity of the rider to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or via NSW Crime Stoppers. All information will be treated in strict confidence.

The rise in popularity of e-bikes has brought significant safety concerns. Modifications, illegal usage, and doubling up on bikes are contributing to accidents and hefty fines, underscoring the need for better education and enforcement.

In a recent case, a young rider received a $4,000 fine after being caught riding a modified e-bike that exceeded legal speed and power limits. The rider was also found without a helmet, further highlighting the risks of non-compliance.

To address these issues, police have launched initiatives such as Operation Spark, aimed at educating e-bike users and enforcing compliance. Officers attached to Traffic and Highway Patrol regularly conduct compliance checks, resulting in numerous warnings, infringement notices, and charges.

These efforts demonstrate the ongoing commitment to promoting safe e-bike practices and reducing accidents in the community. Doubling up - where two people ride on a bike designed for one - is a growing issue. This unsafe practice compromises bike stability, increases the risk of crashes, and breaks the law. Similarly, illegal modifications, such as boosting motor power beyond 250 watts or removing speed limiters, transform e-bikes into unregistered motor vehicles, leading to fines and safety hazards.

As e-bikes continue to grow in popularity, it’s crucial for riders to prioritise safety. Wearing helmets, following legal guidelines, and avoiding risky practices are essential to protect everyone on the road. Police, parents, and communities must work together to educate riders and enforce regulations, ensuring that e-bikes remain a safe and enjoyable mode of transport. Please visit NSW Police website for more information

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