Police in the Kennebecasis Valley and Fredericton are sounding the alarm over a surge in electric dirt bikes. These vehicles put pedestrians and young riders at risk. They run almost silently and hit speeds over 70 kilometres per hour. You see them increasingly on public sidewalks and streets across New Brunswick.

According to a recent report from CBC News, preteens and teenagers are the primary riders.

The Danger on the Sidewalks

Sgt. Dylan Lisson of the Kennebecasis Regional Police Force notes that riders are typically between 11 and 14 years old. They operate these powerful machines in school zones, parking lots, and parks.

“We have somebody walking their dog down the sidewalk and an electric dirt bike is going past at 50 to 70 kilometres an hour,” Lisson told CBC News.

Pedestrians cannot hear the bikes approaching. This creates a serious hazard for everyone sharing the walking paths.

What the Law Says

Electric dirt bikes do not classify as bicycles under New Brunswick law. The Fredericton Police Force states these are motor vehicles intended primarily for off road use. They are unregisterable under the Motor Vehicle Act. This means you cannot legally operate them on roads or pedestrian areas.

Riders caught in prohibited areas face vehicle seizures and a fine of 172 dollars.

The City of Saint John is aware of the issue. City staff are installing speed cushions and additional signs in problem areas to manage the high speed traffic.

Trail Confusion and Calls for Change

The rules remain blurry off the pavement. QuadNB manages all terrain vehicle trails in the province. The group wants the provincial government to update legislation to clarify the rules.

Jacques Ouellette is the development coordinator for QuadNB. He says standard dirt bikes are not permitted on their trails. He believes this restriction extends to electric versions.

“If there is nothing in the law that says that they cannot be there, they will still be there anyhow,” Ouellette said.

The Department of Justice and Public Safety states that the Motor Vehicle Act does not apply to dirt bikes. A spokesperson confirmed that municipalities hold the power to regulate the use of electric dirt bikes within their own borders.

Education Over Enforcement

Police have the authority to issue tickets and impound vehicles. However, departments prefer to focus on public education.

Lisson points out that parents ultimately pay the impound fees. He wants parents and guardians to take the initiative and pull these bikes off the road themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are electric dirt bikes legal on sidewalks in New Brunswick?

No. Police classify them as motor vehicles intended for off road use. You cannot legally ride them on sidewalks, streets, or pedestrian paths.

How fast do electric dirt bikes go?

Many models reach speeds exceeding 70 kilometres per hour.

What happens if police catch you riding an electric dirt bike illegally?

Police seize the vehicle and issue a fine of 172 dollars.