Arabic version: سكان سيدني يشعرون بالإحباط بسبب زيادة الدراجات الكهربائية غير القانونية

Residents of Sydney’s wealthy beach suburbs are expressing growing frustration over the increasing presence of illegal fatbikes, particularly among teenagers. These e-bikes, known for their thick tyres designed for off-road use, are often modified to exceed speed limits, leading to dangerous situations on roads and footpaths.

According to BBC News, many locals report seeing teenagers riding without helmets and weaving through traffic, prompting safety concerns. Some residents have witnessed alarming incidents, such as groups of teens performing stunts on public roads and even golf courses, which have gone viral on social media.

The rise in fatbike usage in Sydney is attributed to factors such as favorable weather, affluent families purchasing high-end models, and a lack of reliable public transport. The absence of strict regulations regarding age limits and riding on footpaths has exacerbated the problem, leaving pedestrians and motorists feeling unsafe.

Health authorities are also sounding the alarm, as hospitals have reported a significant increase in injuries related to e-bikes. Experts warn that the lack of protective gear among riders, coupled with the high speeds these modified bikes can reach, poses serious risks to both riders and pedestrians. With the state government recently relaxing import restrictions on e-bikes, concerns are mounting that the trend will continue to escalate without intervention.