Teenager charged and illegal electric motorbike seized

Another one charged and off to court.

Yesterday, PC Sajjad Anwar and PCSO Ben Holmes from our neighbourhood team spotted a SurRon electric motorbike being ridden antisocially on Yarm Road.

The rider of the bike was riding at high speeds, weaving in and out of traffic and did not have a helmet on.

The pair gave chase on foot and managed to tackle the rider to the ground.

A 16-year-old boy was arrested and taken into police custody, where he was later charged with using a vehicle on a road or public place without insurance, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, and driving without due care and attention.

He was released on bail to appear at Newton Aycliffe Youth Court on Friday, July 18.

The bike has been seized and will now be destroyed.

Here’s a reminder on electric motorbikes and the law…

If your bike can be propelled at more than 15.5mph by the motor, has a continuous rated power output higher than 250 watts, and does not have pedals that can propel it, then it is classed as a motorbike or moped.

This means it must be registered and taxed.

You also need a valid driving licence to ride one, you must wear a motorcycle helmet that meets British safety standards, and you must insure your vehicle.

If you don’t, we will stop you and your bike will be seized.

If you’re a parent, please ensure you understand the law regarding these types of bikes before buying them for your children or allowing them to access one.

Not knowing the law is not a good enough excuse for potentially putting your own child and other road users at risk. 

Anyone with information regarding antisocial biking in their area should email [email protected] or contact us online at www.durham.police.uk