Police arewarning riders about the consequences of unlawfully riding electric dirt bikes on roads, footpaths and cycle lanes, after a spike in crashes involving the increasingly popular vehicles.

One recent incident involved a rider performing wheelstands along Ngatai Rd in Ōtūmoetai – an incident witnessed by Senior Sergeant Wayne Hunter, head of Western Bay of Plenty road policing, while he was out with his family.

He said those caught riding illegally were exposing themselves and others to significant risk, with police taking action in regard to a steady stream of incidents involving dangerous riding.

“We’ve seen people riding dangerously and crashes involving pedestrians and vehicles.

“Other recent incidents included a rider crashing while coming out of a cycle lane and breaking their arm, and two others received injuries colliding with cars, and numerous riders have received infringements.”

Legal requirements and penalties

Western Bay of Plenty road policing manager Senior Sergeant Wayne Hunter. Photo / Alex Cairns

Hunter said electric dirt bikes were gaining in popularity, particularly among teenagers. In most instances, the bikes were not legally allowed on the roads unless the rider and the bike complied with the law.

He said many riders were unaware the bikes could exceed 80km/h, meaning they must be registered and meet the same requirements as any other motor vehicle.

Riders must hold a valid driver’s licence, the bike must have a current warrant of fitness, and helmets are compulsory.

Hunter said ignorance of the law was “not an excuse” and wouldn’t save people from receiving fines, or having their bikes confiscated.

Police were now dealing with four to five cases involving electric dirt bikes every week, he said, and injuries were mounting.

“It’s only a matter of time before someone is critically injured or killed.”

Hunter said officers routinely stop riders to check compliance, and the financial penalties for breaches add up quickly:

• $400 for not having a driver’s licence
• $150 each for no registration and no warrant of fitness
• $50 for not wearing a helmet
• Additional penalties may apply if the bike is not roadworthy
• Dangerous riding could result in the bike being impounded for 28 days and a cost of $950 to retrieve it.

Police enforcement approach

Hunter said police often take an “educational approach” with younger riders, but repeat offenders would face tougher consequences.

He also encouraged the public to report dangerous behaviour.

“Often, people don’t report this type of riding, but we urge them to do so.”

His message is clear: “If you have one of these bikes, you need to know where you can and can’t ride it. The same responsibilities apply as for any motorist.”

Legal requirements for rider and bike

A valid driver’s licence is required if:

• The electric motor on the bike exceeds 300 watts
• The bike is capable of speeds over 50km/h
• The bike does not have pedals.

Warrant of fitness and registration rules:

• If the bike can exceed 50km/h, it must be registered as a motorcycle
• If it cannot exceed 50km/h, it may be registered as a moped
• In both cases, the vehicle must be entry certified and meet roadworthy standards
• A warrant of fitness is required unless exempted (such as some mopeds).