Riders who used modified bikes are in for a rude awakening as local police say they are coming after them.
An operation conducted by Safer Neighbourhood Teams from different Derbyshire Villages and other authorities saw various bikes targeted. Shirebrook Safer Neighbourhood Team joined hands with Mansfield Community Protection Officers this past week.
During the operation, officers stopped and inspected bikes in popular areas. Police say the operation followed repeated complaints about people on bikes.
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According to the force, the bikes caused noise pollution, and riders engaged in illegal anti-social behaviour. In other instances, the riders also broke traffic laws.
Police swiftly acted, deploying officers to what they deemed “hot spots”. Both plain-clothes police and uniformed officers were deployed.
There, they found all manner and sorts of modified bikes. A rider using a modified bike to transport illegal substances was also stopped.
A spokesperson for Shirebrook Police SNT, who led the operation said: “The operation, based out of Mansfield Wildlife Rescue Centre, has seen motorcycles stopped and seized from Surron motorbikes to adapted motorbikes as well as a quantity of drugs being conveyed on one of these vehicles also being seized.
“Shirebrook Neighbourhood Team are committed to tackling the issue of anti-social off-road bikes in line with our local policing priority of vehicle-related ASB and this operation will be ongoing.”
What does UK law say about modified bikes?
UK law strictly regulates modified bikes, particularly regarding safety and roadworthiness. All modifications must meet safety standards set by the Department for Transport.
Any modifications affecting emissions, brakes, or lights must comply with MOT requirements. Non-compliant bikes can fail inspection, making them illegal to operate on public roads.
Modifications impacting speed or noise levels are also restricted under UK noise pollution laws. Excessive noise or emissions from modified bikes can lead to fines or impounding.
Riders must also ensure their modifications do not violate insurance terms. Unapproved modifications may void insurance, leaving riders liable for damages and penalties.
