In South Australia, electric bicycles with powerful motors that exceed legal limits are being widely modified, raising concerns about safety and enforcement. Riders like Jeff boast about the upgrades they perform, with some achieving speeds of up to 70 km/h, which is significantly higher than the legal limit. Using online kits, they are able to convert standard bicycles into high-powered e-bikes, effectively creating a vehicle that is comparable to a motorcycle, despite being categorized as pedal-assist bicycles.

Amid increasing reports of modified e-bikes on the roads, the South Australian government is reassessing its policies regarding the regulation of electric bicycles. Transport Minister Emily Bourke has highlighted the necessity to address what she termed "illegal and idiotic behaviour" by certain e-riders that puts them and other road users at risk. The government appears to be weighing its options on how best to tackle this growing issue that combines safety and legality concerns.

Supporters of e-bikes argue that when used within the regulations, they represent a sustainable form of transport and advocate for their continued use. However, the prevalence of high-powered modifications presents a challenge to this view and complicates the regulatory landscape. As these e-bikes gain popularity, the need for clearer regulations and enforcement mechanisms will likely become increasingly urgent to ensure road safety and compliance with existing laws.