The Sicamous RCMP are reminding residents and visitors that e-dirt bikes are not legal to operate on roadways or in public areas (read the media release).

Both e-dirt bikes and traditional gas-powered dirt bikes are strictly for off-road use and are not permitted on roads, sidewalks, bike paths or in any other public space.

It’s important to note that e-dirt bikes are not the same as e-bicycles, which are legal to operate on public roadways. Below are some key differences:

E-Dirt Bikes	E-Bicycles
Not legal for street use and can travel between 75 and 100 kilometres per hour.	Legal for street use and limited to 32 kilometres per hour.
Range in output from 8,000 to 22,000 watts.	Must not exceed 500 watts of power.
Not equipped with pedals.	Equipped with pedals.

Operating an e-dirt bike on a public roadway can result in Motor Vehicle Act fines, including a $598 penalty for operating a vehicle without insurance. E-dirt bikes are not covered under any ICBC policy for on-road use, and operating an uninsured vehicle can expose the rider to civil liability if another person is injured or property is damaged.

The RCMP asks parents considering the purchase of an e-dirt bike to familiarize themselves with the laws before committing to buy.