My Thoughts on Electric Dirt Bikes for Kids and Teens

Personally, I find it exciting to see children and teenagers riding various electric dirt bikes. Despite the common belief among my colleagues and peers that young people are no longer interested in motorcycles and prefer activities like TikTok dances or video games, I strongly disagree.

In my community, a large number of kids are riding electric dirt bikes such as Sur-Ron, Talaria, and soon, Zero's EV dirt bikes. They are a common sight around town. For instance, during my daughter's lacrosse practice last night, I observed at least 10 EV dirt bikes zooming past the field.

However, there is an issue with these youth-oriented motorcycles - local laws have not kept pace with the technology. This has led to challenges for law enforcement and communities in regulating these powerful machines, as seen in a town near my home in Draper, Utah.

According to a report from our local KSL outlet, the Draper community is starting to enforce regulations on EV dirt bikes following a series of incidents involving them and residents. The local police have issued a statement on Facebook reminding residents and parents that these bikes are meant for off-road use only.

The post states, "Electric motorcycles are considered off-road vehicles by state law. According to Utah State Code and Draper City Ordinance, they are not permitted on public roads, sidewalks, trails, or parks. They can only be used off-road with the property owner's permission. Draper City has been dealing with issues of these motorcycles causing damage to parks, trails, and park strips. Additionally, the Draper Police Department has been addressing safety concerns related to speeding and reckless driving. The police are enforcing the law and impounding vehicles when necessary."

It is crucial to adhere to local laws and regulations. These EV dirt bikes are a fantastic way to introduce children and teens to motorcycles and provide them with a sense of freedom. They serve as ideal beginner bikes. However, it is essential for townships and cities to consider making these bikes legal for street use.

If appropriate laws are put in place, it can prevent the current lawlessness surrounding these bikes. The restrictions mentioned by the Draper Police mean that riding these bikes near residential areas is prohibited unless there are ample public lands available. This poses a challenge for individuals in suburban areas where open spaces are limited.

Ultimately, I believe that making it difficult or illegal to engage in outdoor activities like riding motorcycles can hinder the youth from exploring the world beyond screens. It is important for both riders and authorities to work together to ensure the safe and legal operation of these bikes.

Let's encourage more kids to enjoy the outdoors and engage in physical activities. By creating appropriate regulations, we can prevent situations like the one faced by Draper and promote responsible riding practices.