Electric dirt bikes are creating serious concerns for police, with the vehicles featuring in a growing number of crashes and cases of illegal riding.
In most instances, the bikes, which could exceed 80km/h, were required to be registered.
That came as a shock to many of the riders police spoke to, said Western Bay of Plenty area road policing manager, Senior Sergeant Wayne Hunter.
“We’ve seen people riding dangerously and crashes involving pedestrians and vehicles, and people need to realise that just because these dirt bikes are electric, it doesn’t mean they are allowed on the road.
“Ignorance won’t protect you from fines or having your dirt bike confiscated, and police are routinely stopping riders on electric dirt bikes to make sure both the bike and the rider are compliant with the law.”
It came as the vehicles gained popularity.
“We’re now dealing with roughly four cases involving electric dirt bikes a week, and people have been hurt.”
Currently, one e-bike has been impounded for dangerous riding, and the cost to retrieve the e-bike after the 28-day impound was $900.
“Two others have received injuries after colliding with cars, and numerous riders have received infringements.
“If you have one of these bikes, you need to know where you can and can’t ride it, the same responsibilities as any motorist.”
You need a valid driver’s licence if:
- The electric motor exceeds 300 watts (not kilowatts)
- The bike is capable of speeds over 50km/h
- The bike does not have pedals (i.e., it cannot be classified as a power-assisted cycle).
The bike needs a Warrant of Fitness and registration if:
- If it 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 (e.g., some mopeds).
Electric dirt bikes are not bicycles if:
- They lack pedals
- They have motors exceeding 300 watts
- They are capable of autonomous propulsion without rider input.