What types of bicycles are covered by the product safety standard for pedal bicycles?

A bicycle is defined in the Product Safety Standards (Pedal Bicycle) Regulations as a two-wheel pedal vehicle propelled by human effort only and not by an engine.

Most types of new bicycles must comply with the product safety standard for pedal bicycles, provided they have a wheelbase of 640mm or greater. A bicycle’s wheelbase is measured by the horizontal distance between the centre of the front and back axles. Most children’s pedal bicycles have a wheelbase of this size. Partially assembled and sub-assembled bicycles must also comply.

The following types of bicycles are excluded:

  • bicycles with a wheelbase shorter than 640mm
  • second-hand bicycles
  • custom-made bicycles which are designed or made to order for an individual
  • recumbent bicycles, being bicycles where the rider is place in a laid-back reclining position
  • some bicycles designed and intended to be used for competitions – these bikes must have a single crank-to-wheel ratio and no free-wheeling feature between the pedal and rear wheel.

What are the rules?

Bicycles must meet design and performance requirements to ensure they are safe and roadworthy. There are tests which have to be carried out to determine that a bicycle meets those requirements. In addition, every bicycle must have warning labels and come with an owner's manual.

The manual will include simple and clear instructions for assembly, use, maintenance and repair.

Labelling and warning requirements

All labels must be in writing, in English and clearly readable.

Manufacturer or supplier information

Bicycles must be permanently marked with the name and address of the manufacturer, importer or other supplier, with the identification number of the bicycle stamped or engraved on the bicycle frame.

Component or partially assembled bicycles

Bicycles that are supplied in component form or partially assembled must carry this label:

WARNING: In the interests of safety it is recommended that you have this bicycle assembled by a skilled bicycle mechanic.

Stunt and off-road look-alike bicycles

Bicycles that look like they could be used for off-road riding or for stunts, but are not suitable for those uses (for example, it looks like a BMX but isn't one), must carry this label:

WARNING: This bicycle is not designed for off-road use or for stunting.

Who do the rules apply to?

Any person who supplies, offers to supply or advertises the supply of new bicycles or pre-assembled bicycles must comply with the product safety standard.

Supplying can be through displaying bicycles for sale in a shop, selling bicycles at a market or advertising bicycles for sale on an online auction site.

Offering new bicycles for lease or as give-aways is also considered an "offer to supply".

I have a bicycle I want to pass on to a friend. Do I have to comply with the product safety standard?

No, not if you are supplying a second-hand bicycle. However, if you plan to give away or sell a second-hand bicycle, we recommend that you should have it checked by a qualified bicycle mechanic first.

Read more about pedal bicycles PDF (497 KB)

Make a complaint

If you think a pedal bicycle does not comply with the standard, you can make a complaint to us.