Pitt Meadows RCMP are issuing their own warning about e-dirt bikes and mini motorcycles following a similar warning put out by the Maple Ridge RCMP on Tuesday.
On April 25, police in Pitt Meadows stopped the driver of a motorized minibike in the area of Harris Road and Airport Way.
The youth, who was driving the vehicle, had already been warned twice that the vehicle was not permitted for use on public roads. And, as a result, the youth was issued multiple tickets including: failing to stop for police, for having no insurance, and no driver’s licence.
“We have received a number of reports of youth driving dirt bikes, e-dirt bikes and mini motorcycles on our roadways here in Pitt Meadows,” explained Staff Sgt. Michelle Luca, Pitt Meadows RCMP detachment commander.
“The use of these vehicles on the road is extremely dangerous and illegal, as they’re not built for streets. By taking your dirt bike for a drive on the road you’re putting yourself and others in danger,” said Luca, noting e-dirt bikes and mini motorcycles are not permitted for use on public roads, sidewalks, or other designated streetways unless they meet all legal requirements for on-road vehicles.
The vehicles, she explained, typically lack required safety features such as headlights, brake lights, turn signals, mirrors, proper tires, registration and insurance, which are mandatory for road use under provincial motor vehicle legislation.
They are to be used for recreation on trails, private property, or approved off-road areas.
On Tuesday, Maple Ridge RCMP said they stopped and fined three youth caught driving e-dirt bikes on Maple Ridge streets.
In addition to receiving heavy fines, police also talked with their parents about the rules surrounding these vehicles and about further penalties if the driving behaviour continued.
A ticket for not having insurance is $598, for no licence is $276, riding a motorcycle without a required helmet will result in a $138 ticket and the loss of two demerit points, driving without due care and attention is a $368 ticket and the loss of six demerit points, and driving without consideration will result in a $196 ticket and the loss of six demerit points.
“To parents and guardians in our community, please be cautious when purchasing this style of vehicle for your children,” added Luca. “These vehicles are not legally allowed to be driven on our roads, and our officers are taking a strong educational approach to this issue, however where necessary, enforcement will be conducted.”