US social media influencer Sur Ronster was handed a hefty fine and slapped with two traffic infringement notices after organizing a swarm of e-bike riders on Sydney's Harbour Bridge. The group, estimated to be around 40 people strong, took to the bridge during peak-hour traffic, where cycling is strictly prohibited.
Witnesses described the scene as "incredibly irresponsible, stupid, and downright dangerous." NSW police Assistant Commissioner David Driver expressed concern for public safety, stating that the stunt had potential to result in serious injuries or fatalities. Despite the risks, authorities chose not to pursue the riders immediately due to safety concerns, but instead tracked them down at a nearby location where they eventually dispersed.
Ronster, who boasts over 3.4 million followers on social media platforms, was issued with two fines for negligent driving – each carrying a penalty of $562 and three demerit points. The incident has reignited calls for stricter regulations around e-bike usage on public roads.
When questioned by the Sydney Morning Herald, Ronster acknowledged that his actions may have given "bike life" an undeserved bad reputation. He claimed that he had planned to take a more cautious approach, but ultimately made a decision that involved riding on the bridge in contravention of local laws. The influencer expressed regret for any harm caused and vowed to be more mindful of road rules in the future.
The incident comes as concerns over e-bikes growing on public roads across Australia continue to escalate. Federal Health Minister Mark Butler has condemned the proliferation of illicit e-bikes, labeling them a "total menace" that poses serious risks to road users. With an alarming surge in e-bike-related injuries – including four fatalities – the government is under pressure to take swift action and establish more effective regulations around their use.
A stark reminder of the need for responsible behavior on our roads, Sur Ronster's e-bike stunt serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing thrill-seeking over safety.
Witnesses described the scene as "incredibly irresponsible, stupid, and downright dangerous." NSW police Assistant Commissioner David Driver expressed concern for public safety, stating that the stunt had potential to result in serious injuries or fatalities. Despite the risks, authorities chose not to pursue the riders immediately due to safety concerns, but instead tracked them down at a nearby location where they eventually dispersed.
Ronster, who boasts over 3.4 million followers on social media platforms, was issued with two fines for negligent driving – each carrying a penalty of $562 and three demerit points. The incident has reignited calls for stricter regulations around e-bike usage on public roads.
When questioned by the Sydney Morning Herald, Ronster acknowledged that his actions may have given "bike life" an undeserved bad reputation. He claimed that he had planned to take a more cautious approach, but ultimately made a decision that involved riding on the bridge in contravention of local laws. The influencer expressed regret for any harm caused and vowed to be more mindful of road rules in the future.
The incident comes as concerns over e-bikes growing on public roads across Australia continue to escalate. Federal Health Minister Mark Butler has condemned the proliferation of illicit e-bikes, labeling them a "total menace" that poses serious risks to road users. With an alarming surge in e-bike-related injuries – including four fatalities – the government is under pressure to take swift action and establish more effective regulations around their use.
A stark reminder of the need for responsible behavior on our roads, Sur Ronster's e-bike stunt serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing thrill-seeking over safety.