Welcome to our Newsletter for Summer 2026. Included in this newsletter is:
- E-Bike rules update
- Update on our DT Recumbents trikes
- Workshop, including replacement Idlers
- Ice Trikes News
- Our first AZUB sale
E-Bike update
A new year has arrived complete with media focus on e-bikes (E-motorbikes really) including lots of huffing and puffing about “doing something”.
But quietly in the background a change in legislation occurred without fanfare, and it’s probably the most important change to happen.
Vehicle Standards (Classes of Vehicles that are not Road Vehicles)” and was dated 24th Dec 2025. The amendment specifically addresses the import requirements, not the legality of on road use.
The new wording is:
“power‑assisted pedal cycle means a vehicle that meets the definition of Cycles – Electrically power assisted cycles – EPAC Bicycles in the European Committee for Standardization EN 15194:2017, or other later version.” https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2021L00956/latest/text & Advisory notice that a thing is not a road vehicle
The amendment narrows the definition of a power assisted pedal cycle to be one that complies with the Euro standard EN15194. This means that a complying power assisted pedal cycle is not a road vehicle and therefore does not require a type certificate or special approval and can be easily imported.
The intent is to stop the importation of non-compliant electrically powered bikes and I expect it will stop the ready availability of these “e-bikes” as the media insists on calling them.
A side effect is that it is now illegal to import a factory equipped e-assist recumbent trike (or bike) as these cannot be certified to the EN15194 standard, as the standard mandates design features that recumbents simply can’t meet (eg. height adjustable seats, conventional handlebars, maximum of 2 wheels). So if you had your eye on an ICE trike with Shimano STEPS e-assist, it’s not going to be that simple anymore.
All is not lost though. We can supply and fit the CYC Motor’s Photon Gen2 mid drive, a polished and compact torque sensing mid drive that will fit on most recumbent trikes and bikes. The Photon offers a ride experience very similar to the mainline brands, but also has a large range of user settings to tailor the motors response and accepts any suitable voltage/amp battery. A 250 watt EN15194 compliant firmware is included at time of installation.
DT Recumbent Trike
Our first D’lite small trike is ready to roll out the door! Finished in “Stop Light Red”, this build features 16” front wheels, 20” rear wheel, folding frame, Sturmey Archer 5 speed wide ratio hub, and special 140mm cranks for its diminutive rider.
We think it is an eye catching little trike and hope the rider enjoys many comfortable rides!
Our next build is well under way, but you’ll have to wait a little while for the great unveiling!
Workshop update
Idlers
Late 2025 we introduced a selection of locally made chain idlers as replacements for factory fitted idlers. Standard sizing is either 70mm or 45mm diameter and 15mm wide with 8mm bearing bore. This corresponds closely to the idler sizing used on a range of trikes. Both sizes can be had as “power” or “return” idlers. Power idlers have 2 bearings. Return idlers have a single bearing. Custom sizing is available up to 70mm diameter and alternate bearing sizes.
Repairs, service and Modifications
Don’t forget our workshop is open for recumbent repairs, servicing and modifications.
Crank shortening, special mounts, seat mesh…
For those older and out-of-production cycles, there is an excellent chance we can make replacement parts to keep you on the road.
ICE Trikes News
ICE (Inspired Cycle Engineering) have released several new models, the Sprint X Pixel, and two Hand Cycles
Sprint X Pixel
The Pixel is based on the Sprint X model, and in ICE’s words is
“A compact 20″ all-around wheeled trike with natural handling that delivers an agile, sporty, and adventurous riding experience.”
The Pixel comes standard with 20” wheels, and 130mm cranks and is designed to suit riders from 137cm (4’6”) tall.
ICE Handcycles
The Hand Cycles are a very different trike. Based on the Adventure HD and Sprint X Tour trikes, they incorporate dramatic modifications to accommodate hand cyclists. The seat is completely revised, the standard pedals replaced with fixed (but adjustable) footrests, and the Shimano STEPS e-assist is now driven by the hand cranks. The hand cranks themselves incorporate the steering and adjustment for rider arm length and yet still folds flat to allow access and ICE’s signature “Compact Flat Twist” fold for transport. The hand cycles come with the Shimano STEPS e-assist, Nexus internal hub gears, and Shimano Di2 electric shifting.
Talk to us if you are interested in this product, as we believe there is scope to gain import approval under the new E-bike rules.
AZUB
We were very pleased to deliver our first Azub trike at the end of last year, an Azub TiFly X. A wonderful trike and we understand it is impressing people no end out on the rail trails! We are very happy to be able to offer the full range of Azub bikes and trikes, from their tiny “T Trisek” (for riders from 135cm/4’3) to the simply named “Fat” – check their website for full details. https://azub.eu/
Well, Summer’s a-wasting, but the best riding season is just around the corner – see you out on the trails!
