| The mini-moto craze has swept the region, sparking fears of serious accidents and an influx of complaints to police from worried residents about noise levels and public safety.
The vehicles, which have been branded potential death traps in the wrong hands, cost between £200 and £2000, depending on the model and specification.
Police say that while the number of complaints has eased over the winter, they warn that as the better weather comes in youngsters should be aware they risk being served an ASBO and having their mini-moto seized if they ride on public roads or land.
Inspector Gordon Taylor of the Road Policing unit said they have issued numerous warnings to those driving the vehicles illegally and can impose ASBOs and report those who continue to flout the law to the procurator fiscal and seize their mini-motos as evidence.
“We have dealt with a number of mini-motos over the last one or two years,” said Inspector Taylor, “and there have been occasions where we have taken possession of these vehicles for evidential or used ASBO warnings for people abusing them.
“We receive complaints periodically and I am sure as better weather comes in the complaints will increase.
“The level of complaints is around half a dozen reports a week regarding abuse of motorcycles, not particularly mini-motos.
“Mini-motos are not built for road use at all.
“They are not vehicles as such. They are not built for road use.
“They are off-road bikes. They can only be used on private land where the person has sought the permission of the landowner.
“Using these vehicles on public roads or land is illegal and can be charged with driving on places other than a road.
“The appeal of the mini motos has caused an increase in purchases of these vehicles. There has been a slight increase in motorcycle calls generally.
“The majority of motorcycle calls we get are related to larger motorbikes used in an anti-social manner around the housing estates.
“Anyone who knows anyone who is using motorbikes and mini- motos illegally on the road or places causing anti-social behaviour should report them to us. I would ask that they telephone us with a description and we will act on that.
“We have been in touch with suppliers to make sure they do inform people when they buy these vehicles that they aren’t for use on roads to make sure that message goes out with the purchase of the mini-motos.”
Anyone who suspects a motorcycle, mini-motor bike or similar vehicle is being used illegally should call Tayside Police on 01382 223200. |
