Police seize three illegal Surron-style bikes in Falmouth

Officers from the Falmouth and Helston Neighbourhood Team said they had recently seized the three bikes and warned riders that Surrons and similar electric bikes are not automatically legal to use on roads or in public places.

Police said the bikes have become increasingly popular, but riders may be unaware of the legal requirements surrounding them.

For a Surron-style bike to be ridden legally on a public road, police say it must be registered with the DVLA, display a valid number plate and have appropriate insurance.

The rider must also have the correct driving licence entitlement and wear an approved motorcycle helmet.

The bike must meet road-legal equipment requirements and, where applicable, be taxed and have an MOT.

Police said many Surron bikes do not meet these requirements and are therefore treated as illegal motor vehicles when ridden on public roads or in public places.

Bikes that do not meet the requirements can only be used legally on private land with the permission of the landowner.

The neighbourhood team said: “The illegal use of these bikes can cause significant concern within our communities and poses a risk to pedestrians, other road users and the riders themselves.”

Officers said they would continue to take “robust action” against the illegal use of Surron bikes, off-road motorcycles and other nuisance vehicles.

Riders committing offences could have their vehicle seized and potentially face prosecution, fines, penalty points or driving disqualification.

Police are asking people who witness the illegal use of Surron bikes or other nuisance vehicles to report it through the Devon and Cornwall Police website.