POLICE have issued guidelines on the legal use of mini motorbikes, following a number of calls from concernced Kidderminster residents.

The bikes cannot be ridden legally on public roads or highways without a relevant licence and insurance.

"These new mini motorbikes are tremendous fun," said PC Bob Fearnall, of Kidderminster police.

"But we want to ensure that people are riding them legally and safely and without causing nuisance to others.

"Many people don't realise that, although most of these bikes only have 30cc engines, they're still classed as motor vehicles and as such, have the same legal requirements as regular mopeds and motorbikes.

"This means that anyone riding a mini motobike on the road would need insurance and must have a provisional driving licence and L plates or a full licence. They would also need to wear a helmet.

Encourage

"The bikes cannot be used on local authority land, including parks, footpaths and grass verges and we would encourage retailers selling these mini motorbikes to ensure that people buying them are aware of these restrictions and legal requirements."

The restrictions do not apply if using the bikes on private land, providing the permission of the landowner had been obtained first.

"Anyone not using their mini motorbike legally would be committing an offence under the Road Traffic Act and should be aware that the police have the power to seize a bike if it's causing alarm, distress or annoyance.

"Hopefully, this will make it clear where the bikes can and can't be used and will encourage young people to use them safely and considerately," he said.