Menu
15/12/2006
Government issues Christmas mini moto warning
The government is urging parent considering buying a mini motorbike for their child for Christmas to stop and think before they buy.
The Department for Transport and Auto Cycle Union have both called on parents to consider the consequences of what might appear to be exciting presents, but which can be a bigger danger than expected.
Road Safety Minister Dr Stephen Ladyman said: "These bikes may be thought of as 'toys', but they are not. They are full-fledged motor vehicles; some are capable of travelling at speeds of up to 40mph. While some versions are well made, others, which may seem good value for money, are poor quality and require a high level of maintenance to be kept in a safe condition.
"The vast majority of these machines cannot and must not be used on the roads or in public areas. While they can be a great deal of fun if used sensibly, irresponsible use can and has had fatal consequences. And don't forget if you break the law, they will be seized by the police and crushed."
Miniature motocycles, miniature quad bikes and scooters sometimes known as "mini-motos" or "go-peds", which are powered by an electric motor or an engine are, in law, light-weight powered motor vehicles.
They are mostly illegal for road use and can be extremely powerful for their size and capable of travelling at speeds in excess of 40mph.
The machines have to be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency and be road-taxed and insured.
Riders have to be 16 or over and hold a valid driving license.
Dr Ladyman said that it was important that parents remembered that the bikes were for use of private property and with the permission of the landowner. The bikes are not allowed to be used on housing estates, footpaths, parks and playing fields and anyone caught doing so risks having their machine confiscated and receiving a fine.
The government said that if parents wanted to purchase a mini-moto for their child, they should look for a properly-supervised off-road area where they can be trained safely and ensure that the bike is transported to that area in a trailer, van or car boot. They should also ensure that children wear appropriate clothing and a helmet.
(KMcA)
The Department for Transport and Auto Cycle Union have both called on parents to consider the consequences of what might appear to be exciting presents, but which can be a bigger danger than expected.
Road Safety Minister Dr Stephen Ladyman said: "These bikes may be thought of as 'toys', but they are not. They are full-fledged motor vehicles; some are capable of travelling at speeds of up to 40mph. While some versions are well made, others, which may seem good value for money, are poor quality and require a high level of maintenance to be kept in a safe condition.
"The vast majority of these machines cannot and must not be used on the roads or in public areas. While they can be a great deal of fun if used sensibly, irresponsible use can and has had fatal consequences. And don't forget if you break the law, they will be seized by the police and crushed."
Miniature motocycles, miniature quad bikes and scooters sometimes known as "mini-motos" or "go-peds", which are powered by an electric motor or an engine are, in law, light-weight powered motor vehicles.
They are mostly illegal for road use and can be extremely powerful for their size and capable of travelling at speeds in excess of 40mph.
The machines have to be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency and be road-taxed and insured.
Riders have to be 16 or over and hold a valid driving license.
Dr Ladyman said that it was important that parents remembered that the bikes were for use of private property and with the permission of the landowner. The bikes are not allowed to be used on housing estates, footpaths, parks and playing fields and anyone caught doing so risks having their machine confiscated and receiving a fine.
The government said that if parents wanted to purchase a mini-moto for their child, they should look for a properly-supervised off-road area where they can be trained safely and ensure that the bike is transported to that area in a trailer, van or car boot. They should also ensure that children wear appropriate clothing and a helmet.
(KMcA)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
04 October 2013
Scotland Holds Conference On Internet Safety
The Scottish government is inviting senior representatives of child protection organisations to a summit on internet safety.
Scotland Holds Conference On Internet Safety
The Scottish government is inviting senior representatives of child protection organisations to a summit on internet safety.
09 January 2006
Cameron unveils plans to keep tuition fees
Conservative leader David Cameron has said that his party would support the retention of tuition fees. Previously, the Tories had pledged to scrap tuition fees. However, during a visit to a school in Basildon, Essex, Mr Cameron told a group of sixth-formers: "I'm afraid I think we are going to have to keep student fees.
Cameron unveils plans to keep tuition fees
Conservative leader David Cameron has said that his party would support the retention of tuition fees. Previously, the Tories had pledged to scrap tuition fees. However, during a visit to a school in Basildon, Essex, Mr Cameron told a group of sixth-formers: "I'm afraid I think we are going to have to keep student fees.
03 August 2004
Motorcycling proposals call for licensing shake up for faster bikes
A shake up of licensing for powerful motorcycles and enhanced road safety initiatives are two of the key proposals contained in a report on the future of motorcycling. The report - 'Advisory Group on Motorcycling: Final Report to Government' - will inform the government's strategy for motorcycling to be published in the near future.
Motorcycling proposals call for licensing shake up for faster bikes
A shake up of licensing for powerful motorcycles and enhanced road safety initiatives are two of the key proposals contained in a report on the future of motorcycling. The report - 'Advisory Group on Motorcycling: Final Report to Government' - will inform the government's strategy for motorcycling to be published in the near future.
03 March 2015
CCTV Footage Released Over Alan Cartwright's Murder
Police have released CCTV footage showing the moment 15-year-old Alan Cartwright was murdered in Islington. The moving footage shows Alan and three friends riding their bikes, north along Caledonian Road, near the junction of Copenhagen Street, on Friday, 27 February.
CCTV Footage Released Over Alan Cartwright's Murder
Police have released CCTV footage showing the moment 15-year-old Alan Cartwright was murdered in Islington. The moving footage shows Alan and three friends riding their bikes, north along Caledonian Road, near the junction of Copenhagen Street, on Friday, 27 February.
08 October 2014
Police Search For Six Men On Motocross Bikes Following Robberies
Thames Valley Police are searching for six men in connection with a number of street robberies in Slough. It is understood that last Thursday in Herschel Park, an 18-year-old male was approached by six men, riding on two motocross bikes. One of the men produced a knife and demanded the teenager's phone.
Police Search For Six Men On Motocross Bikes Following Robberies
Thames Valley Police are searching for six men in connection with a number of street robberies in Slough. It is understood that last Thursday in Herschel Park, an 18-year-old male was approached by six men, riding on two motocross bikes. One of the men produced a knife and demanded the teenager's phone.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
