High-powered electric bikes a continuing problem

I’m writing again to raise serious concerns about the ongoing misuse of high-powered electric bikes – commonly referred to as “fat boy bikes” – on pedestrian footpaths in The Entrance town centre and local shared pathways .

Despite clear signage prohibiting bike riding through the centre, these riders continue to ignore the rules.

They overtake pedestrians without warning, fail to wear helmets, and show blatant disregard for others.

Their behaviour is not only dangerous – it’s arrogant and increasingly aggressive.

I’ve already contacted Council about this issue.

The response?

Vague suggestions that “we may have a meeting” or “we might put rangers out there”.

That’s not good enough.

This is a public safety issue, not a topic for endless internal discussion.

If Council staff are employed to serve the community, then they should be out there doing the job, not sitting behind desks avoiding accountability.

I’ve spoken to several locals who now feel unsafe walking through the area.

They’re afraid, frustrated, and convinced they won’t be listened to.

But the number of concerned voices is growing, and Council’s inaction is being noticed.

I urge you to support the following measures: weekend patrols by Council rangers in the town centre; active enforcement of signage and penalties for non-compliance; more installation and monitoring of CCTV cameras in high-risk zones; advocacy for mandatory registration or number plates for high-powered e-bikes; and collaboration with NSW Police linking dangerous bike behaviour to driver licence eligibility.

Email, Sep 21
Jim Boyd, The Entrance