MINI MOTORBIKES
The use of Mini Motos, quadbikes and motorbikes off road is becoming a more frequent cause of complaint, and I find that people either loath them being used or are indifferent to the problem. If you live close to an area frequently used for such a purpose you probably fall into the group of those who loath their use. This is perhaps understandable if your summer evenings or weekends in the garden are constantly disturbed by the noise of these machines.
What I would ask parents to consider before putting their hands in their pockets is - where can my child legally use the bike. I am afraid the answer to that is - almost nowhere.
They cannot be used off road on waste ground, in the woods or on the recreation ground unless the landowner has given permission.
They cannot be used on footpaths or bridleways.
They can be used on byways and roads but only if they are "Road Legal". In other words the rider needs to hold a driving licence, insurance and the vehicle has to be registered.
Riders caught in breach of the regulations can have a number of sanctions imposed upon them, including having their bikes taken from them. It will then cost you financially to have them returned.
If your child is not old enough to hold a driving licence it would be better to consider a different present.
Antony Wiles PC8024 - Borough Green
