WA Cycling Laws 2026: What Riders Need to Know

A stylish woman in a leather jacket and carrying a metallic backpack navigates the city streets on her bicycle.

WA Cycling Laws 2026: What Riders Need to Know

Cycling, electric bikes, and electric scooters are becoming increasingly popular across Perth and Western Australia.

Whether you ride for commuting, fitness, or exploring the city, it’s important to understand the WA cycling laws that apply to all riders.

These rules are designed to keep everyone safe - including riders, pedestrians, and drivers.

Here’s what every rider should know before hitting the road or bike path in 2026.

Helmets Are Mandatory in Western Australia

Under Western Australian cycling laws, helmets are compulsory for all riders.

This includes:

• Standard bicycles

• Electric bikes (e-bikes)

• Electric scooters

Your helmet must:

• Meet Australian safety standards

• Be securely fastened

• Fit properly

Failure to wear a helmet can result in a fine.

Beyond the law, helmets are one of the simplest ways to reduce injury risk when riding.

Bike Paths vs Roads: Where You Can Ride

Perth has an expanding network of bike paths and shared paths.

In WA, cyclists are generally allowed to ride on:

• Roads

• Bicycle lanes

• Shared paths

• Dedicated cycling paths

Cyclists can also ride two abreast (side by side) provided they stay within 1.5 metres of each other.

When riding on shared paths, cyclists must give way to pedestrians.

The 1 Metre / 1.5 Metre Passing Rule

Drivers in Western Australia must leave a minimum distance when overtaking cyclists:

• 1 metre when driving under 60 km/h

• 1.5 metres when driving over 60 km/h

This law helps protect cyclists when sharing roads with cars.

Drivers are allowed to briefly cross centre lines (when safe) to give cyclists enough space.

E-Bike Laws in Western Australia

Electric bikes are legal in WA, but they must follow specific rules.

An e-bike must:

• Have a motor power of 250 watts or less

• Only provide assistance while pedalling

• Stop assisting at 25 km/h

These bikes are often referred to as pedelecs.

If a bike exceeds these limits, it may be classified as a motor vehicle and require registration.

Electric Scooter Rules in WA

Electric scooters (often called eRideables) have their own rules in Western Australia.

Current regulations generally include:

Maximum speed limits:

• 10 km/h on footpaths

• 25 km/h on bike paths and roads (where permitted)

Scooters must also:

• Use lights at night

• Give way to pedestrians

• Wear a helmet

• Not carry passengers

These rules are designed to ensure scooters remain safe for shared environments.

Lights and Visibility Requirements

Cyclists riding at night in WA must use:

• A white front light

• A red rear light

• A red reflector

Lights must be visible from at least 200 metres.

Good visibility dramatically improves safety.

Mobile Phone Use While Riding

Using a mobile phone while riding can be dangerous.

Cyclists in WA are not permitted to use a phone while riding unless it is:

• Securely mounted to the bike

• Used hands-free (for navigation, for example)

Holding a phone while riding may result in a fine.

Alcohol and Riding

Cyclists can be charged for riding while intoxicated.

While there isn’t a strict BAC limit like drivers have, police can fine riders if they believe a cyclist is incapable of controlling the bike safely.

The simple rule: if you wouldn’t drive, don’t ride.

Respect Shared Paths

Perth’s cycling infrastructure often includes shared paths used by:

• Cyclists

• Pedestrians

• Runners

• Families

When using shared paths:

• Slow down near pedestrians

• Use a bell when passing

• Give plenty of space

Courtesy goes a long way.

Why Understanding Cycling Laws Matters

Following WA cycling laws isn’t just about avoiding fines.

It helps create a safer environment for everyone using the road network.

As cycling, e-bikes, and electric scooters become more common in Perth, understanding the rules helps keep traffic flowing and prevents accidents.

In Summary..

Cycling in Perth is one of the best ways to get around the city.

But knowing the WA cycling laws ensures you ride:

• Safely

• Legally

• Confidently

Whether you’re commuting to work, exploring Perth’s bike paths, or riding an electric scooter around the city, understanding the rules helps make the experience better for everyone.

Ride smart - and enjoy the journey.