Important Info About Electric Dirt Bikes & Legal Use in West Kelowna

With the rising popularity of e-bikes and electric dirt bikes among local youth, the West Kelowna RCMP is urging parents to understand the legal and safety implications before making a purchase — especially as many of these vehicles may not be road legal.

The message, shared on behalf of Cpl. Tyrone Wilton, Municipal Traffic Lead for the West Kelowna RCMP Detachment, highlights a growing concern in the community: young riders operating high-powered electric dirt bikes on public roads, sidewalks, and trails — often without the knowledge that they’re breaking the law.

“We’re seeing more youth riding vehicles that technically qualify as motor vehicles under the law,” said Cpl. Wilton. “Many of these bikes are capable of reaching highway speeds but are being used without licenses, insurance, or even helmets. That’s a serious risk — not just legally, but to the safety of the rider and the community.”

What Makes an E-Bike Legal in B.C.?

To be considered a legal e-bike under the Motor Vehicle Act, a vehicle must meet all the following criteria:

• ✅ Maximum motor power of 500 watts

• ✅ Top speed of 32 km/h with motor assistance

• ✅ Working pedals that allow for manual pedalling

• ✅ A helmet must be worn at all times

• ✅ No license or insurance required

If the e-bike exceeds these limits — particularly speed or motor wattage — it’s no longer considered a bicycle. It’s classified as a motor vehicle and must comply with all the same rules and regulations as a car or motorcycle.

The Rise of Electric Dirt Bikes: A Serious Concern

Electric dirt bikes are often marketed as bikes, but many operate like motorcycles — with top speeds of 70–90 km/h. These vehicles are frequently purchased online or second-hand, sometimes without clear legal information.

“Parents may not realize what they’re buying,” said Wilton. “A sleek, modern-looking electric dirt bike may appear safe or street legal, but if it doesn’t meet the e-bike criteria, it’s illegal on public roads and sidewalks.”

Legal Risks and Consequences

If a youth is found operating an illegal e-dirt bike in public areas, the consequences can be severe, including:

• 🚫 Fines for no license or insurance

• 🚫 Vehicle seizure

• 🚫 Criminal charges for fleeing police or dangerous driving

• 🚫 Civil liability in the event of a collision or injury

Common charges include unlicensed or uninsured operation, riding on sidewalks, not wearing a helmet, obstructing police, and dangerous driving — all of which carry real legal and financial consequences for both youth and their parents.

What the RCMP Is Doing

In response, West Kelowna RCMP is taking proactive steps:

• 📢 Issuing public reminders and media releases

• 📄 Handing out information letters to youth caught with illegal e-dirt bikes

• 🚔 Targeted enforcement in hot spots such as Shannon Lake

What Parents Should Know

To keep kids safe and stay on the right side of the law, the RCMP advises parents to:

• ✅ Check motor power and speed before buying

• ✅ Talk to your children about the risks and legal issues

• ❌ Do not allow use of illegal e-dirt bikes on public roads, sidewalks, or trails

• 🛍️ Buy from reputable local shops that understand B.C.’s laws

“If your child is involved in an accident while riding an illegal vehicle, you could be held legally and financially responsible,” warns Wilton.

Stay Informed

For more information, contact your local RCMP detachment or a trusted e-bike retailer.

Let’s work together to keep West Kelowna safe and ensure our youth ride responsibly. Please share this message with other families in your community.