Anti-social behaviour (ASB) and off road motorbikes 

Off-road motorbiking is a popular hobby, yet it can lead to dangerous, noisy, and disruptive behaviour, prompting numerous police complaints. Such conduct may lead to legal action against the riders, and sometimes their parents, who may be held responsible for their children's actions. 

Riding motorbikes in public spaces like parks, playgrounds, and sidewalks is prohibited by law.

The West Mercia Police frequently deal with reports of off-road motorbikes being used in an anti-social manner. Additionally, ambulance services are often dispatched to assist children and young adults who have incurred severe injuries from illegally operating these bikes without proper safety gear or helmets.

Legally, off-road motorbikes may only be operated on private property with explicit permission from the landowner. Local council-owned land does not qualify as private property.

Police operations aim to mitigate risks to individuals and communities by seizing and destroying illegally operated off-road motorcycles.

What does the law say? 

Legally, off-road motorbikes are considered motor vehicles and must adhere to certain construction standards to be legally operated on public highways. However, most off-road motorbikes fail to meet these standards. For further details, refer to the Department for Transport's website: https://www.gov.uk/browse/driving/highway-code-road-safety 

Moreover, to use off-road motorbikes on public highways, they must also fulfil the following requirements:

 DVLA registration (log book) 

 Road tax 

 A valid MOT 

 Fitted with lights 

 Fitted with registration plates 

 Type approval 

The rider must also: 

 Be aged 17 or over (or 16 if the vehicle meets the definition of a moped) 

 Hold a valid driving licence 

 Have valid motor insurance 

 Wear suitable safety equipment (e.g. a motorbike helmet) 

If the above conditions are not met, it is illegal to ride an off road motorbike on the road. 

As an owner or rider of such a vehicle, it is your responsibility to be aware of the law. Non-compliance constitutes a criminal offence and could lead to prosecution under the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the Police Reform Act 2002.

How can local communities help?

Is the use of off-road motorbikes a disturbance in your area? If you possess details regarding the operation of these vehicles, including their locations and operators, please inform your local police by dialling 101.For anonymous reporting, reach out to the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

Useful information for the police might encompass:

 The name and address of the owner of the off road motorbike 

 Where the bike is stored 

 When and where the bike is being used (e.g. days, times and routes) 

 Any other useful information such as a description of those who use the bike and its make/model/colour 

The ASB, Crime and Policing Act 2014 

The police, council, housing providers, and other agencies possess six flexible powers under this Act to enhance protection for victims and communities. These powers include:

 civil injunctions 

 criminal behaviour orders (CRIMBO) 

 community protection notices 

 public space protection orders 

 closure powers and dispersal orders