Falmouth and Helston police seize three Surron-style bikes

If you own a Surron, or you’re thinking about buying one, there’s a good chance it can’t legally go anywhere near a public road.

Officers from Falmouth and Helston Police have seized three illegal Surron-style electric bikes, and they’re using the seizures as a reminder of the rules many riders don’t realise apply to them.

Why the bikes were taken

Surron and similar high-powered electric bikes are growing in popularity. But many riders don’t know they can’t simply be ridden on roads, pavements, cycle paths or in public spaces without meeting strict legal requirements.

According to the police, many of the Surron bikes being used on public roads fall short of those requirements. That means they’re being ridden illegally, and may be uninsured, untaxed and unregistered motor vehicles.

What makes a Surron-style bike road legal

To be ridden legally on a public road, a Surron-style bike must:

• Be registered with the DVLA
• Display a valid number plate
• Be taxed (where required)
• Have valid motor insurance
• Hold an MOT if applicable
• Be ridden by someone with the correct driving licence entitlement
• Be fitted with the required road-legal equipment, including lights and indicators where necessary
• Be ridden while wearing an approved motorcycle helmet

Without all of that in place, the only legal place to ride one is off-road, on private land, with the landowner’s permission.

What riders could face

Officers in Falmouth and Helston say they will keep targeting the illegal use of Surron bikes, off-road motorcycles and other nuisance vehicles.

Riders found breaking the law may have their vehicle seized. They could also face prosecution, penalty points, fines or disqualification from driving.

How to report illegal riding

If you see Surron bikes or other nuisance vehicles being used illegally, police are asking you to report it through the Devon & Cornwall Police website:

• Report antisocial behaviour
• Report a crime or intelligence

Police say the information they receive helps them identify offenders and decide where patrols are sent.

📷Three Surron-style bikes seized by officers. Credit: Falmouth and Helston Police