Published: 8 Apr 24
Criminal activity involving off-road bikes is an issue across the UK. There have been incidents of off-road bikes being ridden illegally on roads, in parks, on pavements and in other public spaces, resulting in injuries to both riders and members of the public. There has also been damage to parks, fields, green spaces and private property.
Off-road bikes and the law
Off-road vehicles include moto-cross, trial and endurance bikes, mini motos, quad bikes and some other mechanically propelled bikes.
Off-road bikes are specially designed for off-road use only, and NOT for road use. They must comply with Construction and Use regulations 1986, and be built to a specific standard in order to be ridden on a public road.
If the bike is NOT built to this specific standard, you can only ride an off-road bike legally if it is on private land and you have the land owner’s permission, and ride with due care and attention.
Land owned by the local council is not classed as private land. Council land includes beaches, promenades, car parks, playgrounds and parks.
Riders not complying with the above face having bikes seized and could be banned from driving, fined, or sent to prison. Read More...