HASTINGS, VIC — A 69-year-old man is fighting for life after being struck by an illegally modified electric bike in Hastings on Monday evening.
Emergency services were called to Frankston-Flinders Road about 6.40pm on 12 May, following reports of a collision involving a pedestrian and an electric bicycle. The pedestrian, a Hastings local, suffered life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to hospital.
The rider of the electric bike, a 24-year-old Hastings man, sustained serious injuries and was also taken to hospital.
According to Victoria Police, the e-bike had been illegally modified. Under Victorian law, electric bikes are restricted to a power output of 250 watts and a maximum speed of 25km/h when operating under motor assistance. Bikes modified to exceed these limits may be classed as motor vehicles, requiring registration and a valid motorcycle licence.
The Major Collision Investigation Unit is leading the investigation into the incident. Detectives are appealing for anyone who witnessed the collision, or who may have dashcam or CCTV footage from the area around the time of the incident, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
The incident comes amid growing concern over the safety risks posed by illegally modified e-bikes, which have been linked to a number of serious accidents nationwide.
Police say investigations are ongoing and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
The image in the article, is that just an ordinary e-bike from stock not the actual bike involved in the incident? My thoughts are with the gentleman in hospital that is in critical condition. Also, to the bike rider who was hurt, as I am sure he didn’t intend to hurt anyone.
I have seen myriad home-made electric bikes with various speeds racing around. Perhaps the Hastings Police could get some extra funding from the Commissioner to run a special program with extra staff, to stop and test all the modified e-bikes for their top speed and safety? A blitz program if you like that would be able to be proactive and preventative action.
Hi Tracey,
Yes, this is just a stock image of an e-bike. Most actually have the capability to go over 25km. However, they are restricted at factory to comply with our legislation. That said, if you use google or youtube, it will take you 5 minutes to find a tutorial on how to remove the speed restriction on most e-bikes.