Cranked Bike Studio in Neenah sells one motorized e-bike that is too fast and powerful to legally ride on city streets. PC: Fox 11 Online
APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Police are cracking down on the “unsafe and illegal operation” of motorized dirt bikes on Appleton streets.
In the past year, the Appleton Police Department has seen an increase in complaints involving groups of individuals riding motorized dirt bikes and similar off-road style bikes on city streets. APD says these bikes are not designed for roadways and oftentimes lack the required safety equipment, registration and insurance needed to operate legally within Appleton limits, which poses “a significant risk to public safety.”
According to police, many individuals who ride these bikes recklessly through neighborhoods, business districts and busy intersections will flee from officers when a traffic stop is attempted. Some bikes have even been involved in crashes that resulted in injuries.
Since Monday night, officers have stopped and impounded three bikes they say are connected to ongoing nuisance and fleeing incidents.
“Behaviors like this endangers not only the operators themselves, but also pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists,” the police department said in a news release. “These enforcement actions are part of the department’s continuing effort to address this growing issue and maintain safety for everyone using our roadways.”
Officers will “continue a zero-tolerance, targeted approach in areas where these incidents have been most common” with the goal of reducing dangerous behaviors and keeping Appleton’s streets safe.
APD offered these reminders to residents:
- Motorized dirt bikes, mini-bikes, electric motorcycles and off-road vehicles are not street legal unless properly registered and equipped.
- Fleeing from police is a felony offense and will be investigated fully when riders intentionally avoid contact with officers attempting to make a traffic stop.
- Reckless riding, excessive noise and unsafe maneuvers are considered public nuisances and may result in citations, vehicle impoundment and further legal action.
- Community reports matter. If you see these vehicles being operated dangerously, contact the Appleton Police Department’s non-emergency line at (920) 832-5500.
Comments