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(Image Credit: RCMP)
By Vernon Matters Staff
Know the law

Vernon Mounties warn E-dirt bike riders to stay off public roads, spaces

Apr 10, 2026 | 2:38 PM

Nicer weather may prompt some off-road motorbike riders to travel on public streets and spaces, so Vernon North Okanagan RCMP are out with a reminder that E-dirt bikes, although they are battery powered, are for off-road use only.

They are not permitted on roads, sidewalks, bike lanes, or any other public space, and anyone in violation could be fined hundreds of dollars.

For example, anyone caught breaking the law could face fines of $598 for no insurance, as E-dirt bikes are not eligible for insurance.

In a media release, the RCMP said it is important to distinguish between E‑bikes and E‑dirt bikes.

E‑bikes are speed‑limited, have restricted motor output, and are equipped with functional pedals. E‑dirt bikes do not meet these requirements and therefore cannot be operated in the same way or in the same areas.

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“These vehicles are often mistaken for e-bikes, but they are not e-bikes under B.C. law,” Inspector Neil Kennedy, Operations Officer for the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP, stated.

“Electric dirt bikes like Sur-Ron and Talaria are designed for off road use only, and when they’re ridden on roads or sidewalks, they pose a serious risk to everyone.”

Vernon’s top Mountie also said they were seeing more cases of parents buying E-dirt bikes for children, who cannot legally ride them. He urged parents be sure they know what they were buying in order to keep their kids safe.

by Vernon Matters Staff
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