Teens charged after video showed mass Brisbane tunnel e-bike hooning

Two boys have been charged after videos emerged of a group of teens allegedly riding noncompliant e-bikes through Brisbane, with one cyclist crashing in the Clem Jones Tunnel.

A video taken by one of the group members showed about 20 teenagers riding e-bikes and e-scooters through the CBD and inner suburbs.

They allegedly weaved through traffic, narrowly dodged pedestrians, drove on the wrong side of the road, and performed burnouts during the dangerous stunt on January 23.

A 16-year-old boy crashed in the tunnel at Kangaroo Point and was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

The alleged videographer and the injured boy have now been charged.

Police searched a home on Scott Road in Herston on January 29, where they seized a non-compliant e-bike and phone.

To be used in public, e-bikes must be predominantly pedal-powered, with a small electric motor providing assistance only, up to 250 watts, and the motor must cut out at 25km/h.

A 15-year-old boy from Herston was charged under “post and boast” laws with publishing material about particular offending behaviour, along with unlicensed driving, driving an unregistered vehicle and driving an uninsured vehicle.

Another home on Wexford Street in Kenmore Hills was searched on February 1, and a second e-bike was seized.

A 16-year-old boy was charged with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, unlicensed driving, driving an unregistered vehicle and driving an uninsured vehicle.

Inspector Matt Blunn said the incident was deeply concerning.

“Ignorance is not an excuse when it comes to road safety.

“Police take all reports of these offences seriously will continue to enforce, engage and educate riders and guardians on e-mobility device safety.

“If you don’t follow the law, expect police to come knocking at your door.”

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