The number of serious injuries related to e-bike usage at St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney has doubled from the previous year as their popularity surges.
E-bike injuries are on the rise at St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney, with the facility reporting that the number of patients treated for e-bike related injuries doubled in 2025 compared to 2024. Data released indicates a staggering increase of 350% from just 45 cases in 2023 to 200 cases in the past year, highlighting the growing concern over the safety of e-bikes as they gain popularity among the public. Dr. Tony Grabs, the hospital's trauma director, emphasizes the severity of these injuries, some of which require surgical intervention.
The circumstances surrounding these injuries often include inexperienced users, as illustrated by a case of a woman who rode a rental e-bike for the first time after a night of drinking, resulting in serious injuries upon presentation at the hospital. Dr. Grabs warns that the power and speed of e-bikes can be underestimated, leading to potentially life-threatening accidents. Of the patients treated, it was noted that approximately half required operations due to the extent of their injuries, which could include broken ribs, punctured lungs, and ruptured bowels.
As e-bikes continue to proliferate on Australian streets, this spike in injuries raises critical questions regarding rider safety, training, and the need for potential regulatory measures to mitigate risks. The figures from St Vincent's serve as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with e-bikes and the urgent need for public awareness and safety initiatives to prevent further accidents and ensure safer usage among all riders, especially those who are inexperienced or under the influence.
