‘Erratic’ e-dirt bike riders trigger warning from North Vancouver RCMP

An electric dirt bike is seen in this photo provided by the North Vancouver RCMP.

Mounties in North Vancouver say they’ve seen a “noticeable” increase in the number of electric dirt bikes being operated on city streets over the past few months.

The detachment issued a warning Thursday, reminding residents that these bikes – like their gas-powered counterparts – are only permitted off-road, and should not be ridden on city streets or sidewalks or in designated bike lanes.

“The North Vancouver RCMP has seen a sharp rise in reports of dangerous and erratic behaviours from riders of these bikes,” a statement from police said, adding that the Sur-Ron and Talaria brand bikes are among the most commonly spotted.

“In most cases, it’s unsuspecting parents who purchase these bikes for their kids, believing they are legal for road use – but in fact, they are illegal.”

E-bikes have a maximum speed of 32 km/h and a maximum power of 500 watts, the RCMP said, while e-dirt bikes can go up to 110 km/h and have power up to 22,000 watts. Another important distinction is that e-bikes must have pedals, which are usually not present on e-dirt bikes, according to police.

Fines for operating an e-dirt bike illegally can include a $598 penalty for driving without insurance and a $368 ding for driving without due care and attention. Drivers can also rack up demerit points. Criminal charges including dangerous operation of a motor vehicle are also possible, police warned.

“We are taking this opportunity to educate parents on the use of E-dirt bikes so that fines and injuries can be avoided,” the statement from the RCMP said.

“The North Vancouver RCMP will continue targeting unsafe motorists and cyclists through increased traffic enforcement and initiatives aimed at reducing risks and keeping the community safe.”