A significant number of shared e-bikes in Surry Hills are missing helmets, leaving riders exposed to hefty fines and safety risks. Spot checks reveal that only 15 per cent of available bikes have helmets attached, forcing many users to ride without protection or risk a $344 penalty.
Widespread Helmet Absence Raises Safety Concerns
An investigation at the Bourke Street and Devonshire Street intersection in Surry Hills revealed a major shortage of helmets on shared e-bikes. Over three days, only 17 out of 110 bikes inspected had helmets available. The three leading providers—Lime, Hello Bike, and Ario—were all found to have limited helmet availability. Lime was identified as the least equipped.
Private bike riders demonstrated far higher helmet compliance, with 95 per cent of observed cyclists using properly secured headgear. In contrast, many shared e-bike users rode without helmets or brought their own due to the lack of available options.
Photo Credit: Pexels
Fines and Safety Risks for Riders
The issue extends beyond safety concerns. Helmet violations in NSW come with steep financial penalties. Over the past eight months, police have issued close to $800,000 in fines for helmet-related infractions. The standard penalty for riding without a properly secured helmet is $344, creating a financial burden for those caught without one.
Regular users of shared e-bikes have pointed to availability and quality issues, noting that when helmets are provided, they are often in poor condition. Reports indicate that many helmets found on shared bikes are loose, missing padding, or visibly damaged, raising further concerns about their safety.
Pressure Mounts on E-Bike Providers
Cycling advocates and business leaders call for e-bike operators to take greater responsibility for ensuring helmets are available and properly maintained. Industry representatives argue that providers should be held accountable when bikes are repeatedly left without helmets, particularly for extended periods.
There are also calls for improved security measures to prevent helmets from being stolen or discarded. Some industry figures have suggested that technology could be implemented to better secure helmets to bikes, ensuring they remain available for riders.
Photo Credit: Pexels
E-Bike Providers Respond to Concerns
Rideshare companies are actively working to replace missing helmets and improve safety standards. Lime, which serves many Sydney riders, has stated that its operations team continuously monitors and replaces helmets but acknowledges room for improvement.
Push for Statewide Regulations
Beyond individual company policies, there is increasing pressure on NSW city officials to implement standardised regulations for e-bikes and e-scooters. Currently, different authorities enforce varying rules, creating inconsistencies across regions. A unified statewide approach could help address ongoing safety and operational challenges.
Helmet shortages persist in Surry Hills and other areas. Concerns over rider safety and financial penalties remain pressing. Calls for stronger regulation continue growing as e-bike providers and policymakers face mounting pressure to improve safety measures.
Published 18-Mar-2025
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