E-Dirt bikes are not street legal - Know the law, avoid the fines

The sales and use of E-Dirt bikes have been increasing over the past few months. E-Dirt bikes, particularly the Sur-Ron and Talaria brand bikes, have been making a noticeable appearance on the streets of North Vancouver, and the North Vancouver RCMP has seen a sharp rise in reports of dangerous and erratic behaviours from riders of these bikes.

E-Dirt bikes are relatively new compared to traditional gas-powered dirt bikes. However, the rules for both remain the same. These dirt bikes are strictly for off-road use only and are not permitted to be operated on roads, sidewalks, bike lanes, or any public space.

In most cases, it’s unsuspecting parents who purchase these bikes for their kids, believing they are legal for road use—but in fact, they are illegal, said Corporal Mansoor Sahak, Media Relations Officer for the North Vancouver RCMP. We are taking this opportunity to educate parents on the use of E-Dirt bikes so that fines and injuries can be avoided.

What makes these E-Dirt bikes illegal for street use?

• E-bikes must be limited to 32 km/h – Some E-Dirt bikes can travel up to 110 km/h
• E-bikes must not exceed 500W of power – E-Dirt bikes can output up to 22,000W
• E-bikes must have usable pedals – Most E-Dirt bikes do not have pedals

If you are found riding an E-Dirt bike on a public road, you could be subject to Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) offences and fines:

• No insurance: $598
• No license: $276 and three demerit points
• Riding a motorcycle without a required helmet: $138 and two demerit points
• Driving without due care and attention: $368 and six demerit points
• Driving without consideration: $196 and six demerit points

You may also be subject to Criminal Code offences, including:

• Dangerous operation
• Flight from a peace officer
• Impaired operation of a motor vehicle
• Subject to civil forfeiture

These bikes are not covered under any insurance policy and can expose you to personal civil liability.
Infractions can also lead to increased insurance premiums for families when declaring high-risk drivers.

Offences under the Motor Vehicle Act can include high-risk driving and penalty point premiums. This may lead to higher insurance costs, additional fines, license suspensions, or even affect a youth’s ability to obtain a driver’s license in the future.

The North Vancouver RCMP will continue targeting unsafe motorists and cyclists through increased traffic enforcement and initiatives aimed at reducing risks and keeping the community safe. To learn more about visit E-Bike requirements.