Thank you for being so patient, especially those of you with normal bikes who are not affected by the e-bike insurance problem, but have had to miss out.
Our main concern is public liability. We cycle mostly on shared paths – in amongst pedestrians, children, dogs, fitness groups and other cyclists. If one of our e-bike riders were to be in an accident involving a member of the public whilst not insured, the club would be very exposed to being sued by the member of public or their family. We would also appear to be negligent in organising group rides in full knowledge that our e-bike riders, and therefore the club, are not covered by any insurance.
During the last two weeks we have sought information from Bushwalking NSW to whom we are affiliated, Bushwalking Australia who organises insurance for us and clubs around the country, Bicycle NSW, clubs like ours and other cycling groups. At this stage, we do not know when the issue of insurance for e-bikes will be resolved, it could be a few weeks or a few months.
The committee has decided that, in the interim we will resume bike rides. However, e-bike riders wishing to participate must have individual insurance with Bicycle NSW. This does not apply to cyclists using normal bikes. A number of members already have Bicycle NSW insurance so are covered. They ride frequently, not only with the Ramblers but on their own, with friends or with other groups.
It’s understandable that some of you may not wish to pay for your own insurance, in which case, you will need to wait until the insurance issue is resolved and we have a more satisfactory longer term arrangement in place. Unfortunately we have no choice in stipulating this, we cannot take the risk.
If you visit the Bicycle NSW website, you will see the membership options. Concession Membership is $110 per year, there are other options eg Family Membership. Membership covers you Australia wide and comes with benefits such as discounts at bike shops and information about new cycle paths, rail trails and cycling events. Ramblers cyclists get a 10% discount – contact illawarraramblers@gmail.com for details. Having purchased your insurance, could you please let us know by forwarding your membership confirmation email to illawarraramblers@gmail.com. We are anxious to avoid any pressure being placed on our leaders and will make a list available on the website which can be checked prior to any cycling activity.
Thank you again for your patience and understanding.
Whatever you decide to do, keep cycling.