ON June 22, Coquitlam RCMP received a complaint of youths racing e-bikes on the roadway. Frontline officers located multiple youths in a parking lot near Coast Meridian Road and David Avenue in Coquitlam.
Officers determined four of the youths were operating e-dirt bikes, which are illegal to ride on city roadways, in parks, on sidewalks, in bike lanes, on school grounds or other public spaces.
The four e-dirt bikes were seized, and multiple violation tickets were issued.
“Complaints involving e-dirt bikes have increased significantly in our community,” says Sgt. Adriana O’Malley, Coquitlam RCMP Media Relations Officer. “Parents and guardians need to know that these vehicles are not legal to operate on public roads, sidewalks, parks, bike lanes, or school grounds. Riders who choose to do so can face substantial fines and vehicle impoundment.”
Dirt bikes, whether gas-powered or electric, can only be operated on Crown land, prescribed private land, or on designated off-road trails. Riding on streets, sidewalks, bike lanes or other public spaces is illegal and can result in fines. Potential violations include:
- No insurance, $598
- No (valid / wrong class) driver’s licence, $276
- No helmet, $138
- Stunting / Careless driving, $368
- 7-day vehicle impoundment
Coquitlam RCMP say they remain committed to educating the public about the legal restrictions governing e-dirt bikes and enforcing those laws when necessary. Riders operating e-dirt bikes on city roadways, sidewalks, bike lanes, parks, school grounds, or other public spaces may be subject to fines and vehicle impoundment. Through ongoing public education and targeted enforcement, Coquitlam RCMP will continue to address community concerns and promote the safe and lawful use of off-road vehicles.
