Christmas Message

Parents and guardians are being reminded of the laws around off-road bikes, quad bikes and e-bikes/scooters before adding them to their Christmas shopping lists this year. 

Officers are reminding anyone looking to buy a motorcycle, mini-moto or quad bike that they are classed as mechanically propelled vehicles which require road tax, insurance, a registration plate and a valid MOT if being ridden on a road or other public place.

Those riding them need to ensure they are complying with the law and have the appropriate driving licence and safety equipment. Parents / guardians allowing them to be ridden by children illegally could also be liable for prosecution.

Certain e-bikes (non EAPC), and e-scooters, also have restrictions when ridden on a road or other public place and must be registered, insured and taxed and the rider wearing protective equipment. 

Those bikes that are not road complaint can be ridden on private land, but only where there is no public access and with the landowner’s permission.

Recently, a new diversionary course was introduced in Cleveland which helps to educate riders, including children and their parents / guardians on the legalities and dangers around e-scooters, potentially prior to any criminal action being taken. Please note that there are no government approved e-scooter trials in the Cleveland area at this time.

Further details can be found in relation to this on Cleveland Police Facebook page.