RCMP crack down on illegal e-dirt bikes in Maple Ridge amid safety concerns

Mounties in Maple Ridge are ramping up enforcement efforts targeting illegal e-dirt bikes after receiving numerous complaints about young people riding them dangerously in the city. (Maple Ridge RCMP)

Mounties in Maple Ridge are ramping up enforcement efforts targeting illegal e-dirt bikes after receiving numerous complaints about young people riding them dangerously in the city.

In a news release Tuesday, Maple Ridge RCMP said it has conducted several traffic stops over the past few months to crack down on e-dirt bikes being operated illegally by youth on public roads.

RCMP said officers with their Road Safety Target Team have been monitoring young e-dirt bike riders since April.

Their latest enforcement effort was held on May 5 and focused on a local high school where there had been a number of complaints regarding a group of e-dirt bikers riding “erratically.”

“Discussions were had with school administrators ahead of time who were supportive of the enforcement,” Mounties said in the release.

During the operation, two young riders were given violation tickets for not having insurance ($598) or a driver’s licence ($276).

“The youth and their parents were also educated on the rules surrounding e-dirt bike usage and warned about further enforcement penalties that could result if this type of driving behaviour continued,” RCMP said.

One week prior, on April 29, officers stopped another young person who had a friend with them on an e-dirt bike while travelling approximately 60 kilometres an hour on 232 Street.

“The vehicle was confirmed to be an off-road electric motorcycle not approved for use on public streets,” Mounties said. “Violation tickets for no insurance were issued as well as stern warnings about various motor vehicle offences.”

Mounties shared that riders can also face fines for not wearing a helmet ($138), driving without due care ($368) and driving without consideration ($196).

“Road safety is a top priority for our detachment and we want to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable summer including our youth,” RCMP said. “Please make sure you follow the appropriate rules and regulations surrounding micromobility vehicle use and familiarize yourself with the requirements of e-dirt bikes before purchasing them for you or your family.”