Injury hazard type

Bone fracture or break
Brain injury
Bruising
Concussion
Crushing
Entrapment

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About bicycles

Pedal bicycles are 2-wheeled vehicles manually powered by the cyclist pushing on pedals.

Bicycles are a popular mode of transport and a way to stay active. You can buy bicycles fully or partially assembled.

A family riding bicycles in a park

Risks and injuries from the product

Cyclists can suffer:

  • broken bones, head injuries or death if the bicycle's braking system, steering or pedal cranks fail
  • serious injury or death if the bicycle’s head stem cracks or fails, causing the rider to lose steering control
  • lacerations and limb entrapment if the bicycle is not fitted with a chain guard
  • serious injury or death if the bike does not have reflectors and is not visible in traffic at night.

Pedestrians may suffer serious injury if a bicycle lacks a warning device, such as a bell. Cyclists can use the warning device on bike paths or roads to alert others to their presence and to avoid collisions.

Things to look for when buying the product

Accidents have happened to both pedestrians and cyclists. For this reason, there’s a mandatory standard that suppliers and retailers must comply with.

Only buy and use bicycles that comply with the bicycles mandatory standard.

All bikes

  • The bike has all the mandatory safety features such as protective guards, reflectors, brakes and a warning device.
  • The bike has at least 2 braking systems.
  • It has an identification number that’s legible and permanently marked.

Partially-assembled bikes

  • Partially assembled bicycles are sometimes called ‘bike in a box’. Make sure it comes with clear assembly instructions.

Children's bikes

  • If it’s a children's bike, make sure one of the 2 braking systems is a back pedal brake.

Second-hand pedal bicycles

If you decide to use, buy or borrow a second-hand bike, make sure:

  • the product hasn't been recalled
  • it meets the current mandatory standard
  • all parts are in good working order and it's in a good condition
  • it includes the instructions for safe assembly and use.

For tips and information to help, see Buy second-hand products that are safe.

How to use the product safely

Take partially assembled bikes to a bicycle mechanic. The mechanic can assemble the bicycle in line with the manufacturer's instructions and make sure it’s in safe working order.

Contact your local traffic authority for information on using bikes safely.

Next steps if a product is unsafe

When buying a product, consumers have the right to expect the product is of acceptable quality.

Acceptable quality includes that the product is safe, durable and free from defects.

If you bought a product that doesn’t comply with the mandatory standard or is unsafe, you can report it to us.

Report an unsafe product

If a person is seriously injured or needs urgent medical help, call emergency services on Triple Zero (000).

Related recalls

Search all product recalls

See also

Bicycles mandatory standard