FITCHBURG — Fitchburg and Leominster police are cracking down on the increasing illegal use of e-bikes, dirt bikes and motorcycles, which has been deemed a danger to the community in some instances.
“Our priority is keeping our community and roadways safe,” said the Fitchburg Police Department officials in a recent press release. “We expect all motorists to follow the laws of the road and operate their vehicles responsibly.”
But especially with the increase in e-bikes and bikes that are a cross between a dirt bike and a street bike, policing the roads has become ever more difficult, particularly when riders do antics on the road that present a danger to others, police said.
“We are committed to protecting those who follow the rules, maintain valid licenses, and carry the required insurance coverage,” Fitchburg police said. “As part of that commitment, our enforcement efforts continue to address the illegal operation of mopeds, dirt bikes, and motorcycles, particularly when they are operated in groups or in a manner that creates dangerous conditions for others.
“We will continue to enforce violations and take appropriate enforcement action using all lawful tools available to us,” said Fitchburg Police.
“Our message is straightforward: Follow the rules, operate legally, and help us keep the roads safe for everyone,” police said.
Police noted that in recent enforcement action, “Various criminal charges were filed to include unlicensed operation, negligent operation and illegally attaching plates.”
They said, “Our enforcement efforts will continue, because the safety of our community remains our top priority.”
Fitchburg Mayor Sam Squailia drew attention to the work of both the Fitchburg and Leominster police to rein in rowdy bikers.
She pointed to “continued enforcement on illegal and dangerous motorcycle, dirt bike and ATV activity in our Twin Cities … 8 illegal or dangerous operators now taken off our streets. AMAZING work being done by the Fitchburg Police Department, together with the Leominster Police Department, to address the illegal operation of motorcycles, dirt bikes, mopeds and ATVs on our streets.
“This has been an ongoing concern from residents,” Squailia said. “Groups of riders operating illegally, sometimes without licenses, insurance or properly registered vehicles, weaving through traffic and creating dangerous situations for drivers, pedestrians and neighborhoods.
“Our departments have been working together behind the scenes as well as out on the roads … gathering information, identifying repeat offenders, sharing intelligence and coordinating enforcement efforts across both cities,” Squailia said.
“Over the past several days, Fitchburg Police have continued heavy enforcement actions involving multiple vehicles, with criminal charges being pursued where appropriate, including unlicensed operation, negligent operation and illegally attaching plates. Several motorcycles, scooters and dirt bikes have also been removed from our streets.
“Legal and responsible motorcycles or recreational vehicles riders are NOT being targeted. This effort is targeting the dangerous and illegal operation on public roadways that puts everyone, including the riders themselves, at risk,” Squailia said. “The Fitchburg and Leominster Police Departments are also asking residents to help by reporting activity when you see it. Useful information includes: Exact location, time observed, direction of travel, bike color or description, rider clothing or helmet description, locations where the bikes are regularly stored or seen, photos or video, only when they can be obtained safely.
“Please do not chase, follow, confront or attempt to stop riders yourself,” Squailia said. “Call 911 for an emergency or an immediate public safety threat.”
Tips can also be submitted: Text 847411 with the message: LPDMATIP and text the information FPD/LPD need to know.
Leominster police published a flyer on Facebook detailing some of the issues involved, entitled, “Electric Bikes & Dirt Bikes: Know the Laws. Ride Safe. Avoid Fines.”
It says e-bikes are electric bicycles with motors to help you go faster, noting that the state of Massachusetts recognizes two classes: Class 1: Pedal-assist only, motor works only when pedaling, maximum speed of 20 mph; and Class 2: throttle-assist, has a throttle to engage the motor, maximum speed of 20 mph.
Police said e-bikes must follow the same laws as traditional bicycles. They can ride on roadways, bike lanes and bike paths. Helmets are required for riders under age 16. No driver’s license or registration is required. E-bikes are not permitted on sidewalks.
Electric dirt bikes are highlighted as a bigger problem.
If a vehicle has no pedals or can travel faster than 20 mph, it is not an e-bike, police said.
It may be classified as a moped, motorcycle or electric dirt bike and they must be registered, and it’s a $500 citation if not. A driver’s license is required to operate one. All riders must have a Department of Transportation-approved helmet, and it’s a $250 citation if not. A safety course is required for riders under age 18, and it’s a $500 citation if not completed.
Children under age 12 are now allowed to operate one of these higher-powered electric dirt bikes.
Police said that like gas dirt bikes, electric dirt bikes are not allowed on public streets, sidewalks and bike paths (unless specifically authorized by law) and are for off-road use only.
“Our goal is your safety,” said the Leominster Police flyer. “Ride responsibly, respect our community.”
For more information, call the Leominster Police Department at 978-534-7560.
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