| At
this time of year, many people will be considering the purchase
of gifts for friends and loved ones. In recent times, mini-bikes
which are commonly known as ‘mini-motos’ or
‘pocket bikes’, have become more readily available
at increasingly affordable prices. There may be a temptation
to purchase one of these vehicles in the mistaken belief
that it is a toy. They are, at least, a mechanically propelled
vehicle but may be regarded, dependant upon specification,
as a moped or even a motorcycle. There is a wealth of law
and legislation which vehicles such as these may be subject
to, not to mention the very real issues of user safety and
the social impact of improper use.
Everyone,
particularly parents considering purchase for children,
should be aware of the issues.
Broadly
speaking, without wishing to delve into the intricacies
of the law too deeply, the following is a good starting
point should you be considering using a mini-bike on a
road or other public place:
- Machine
must meet European construction requirements. If it
does not, it will require significant modification to
be used on the roads.
- Must
be registered with the DVLA.
- Must
have Road Tax.
- If
the vehicle is over 3 years old, it will require an
MOT.
- Rider
must be over 17 years unless the vehicle meets the specifications
of a moped allowing a 16 year old to ride it.
- Must
have insurance.
- Must
have the appropriate driving licence.
In
addition, even if the above is in place, there are additional
obligations in respect of protective rider equipment and
standards of riding.
‘BikeSafe’
advice mirrors that of the Motorcycle Industry Association.
Mini-bikes
are only for use on fully private property with the express
permission of the owner. Pavements, car parks, tracks,
off-road rights of way, parks and playing fields are public
places. The illegal use of mini-bikes in such places can
have serious consequences for the rider and others. Seizure
and crushing of bikes, ASBO’s, fines, driving licence
revocation and the risk of serious injury are possible
consequences of unsupervised, illegal use. In short, ride
an unlicensed and uninsured mini-bike out of your garden
gate and you’re breaking the law. The misuse of
mini-bikes is creating a negative image of motorcycling
and having a detrimental effect on responsible, committed
riders. Parents and owners may themselves be liable for
offences if they permit anyone, including children, to
use mini-bikes illegally.
We
would encourage anyone considering the purchase of a mini-bike
to at least identify a suitable venue before buying a
machine and check to establish whether there is any Local
Authority initiative near them. Please be sensible and
have a safer festive season.
|
