Truro police seize illegal Surron-style electric bike

You usually hear one before you see it. A high-pitched whine, then an off-road style bike rips past at a speed no pavement or side street was built for. In Truro, that noise has now cost one rider their bike.

What happened in Tregurra

📷Credit: Truro, Perranporth and Tregony Police

Officers from the Truro Neighbourhood Team, supported by the Truro Special Constabulary, located and seized a Surron style electric bike in the Tregurra area of Truro on the evening of last Thursday (3 September). The action follows a string of reports and concerns to police about the illegal electric bike and the way it was being ridden in and around Truro, including activations of speed enforcement cameras.

Why the bike was taken

The rider was issued with a Section 59 warning notice. The bike itself was seized because it was being used without insurance, and the rider did not hold the appropriate licence to ride it.

What the rules actually say

It catches people out more often than you would think. Privately owned e-scooters and Surron style electric bikes cannot legally be used on public roads, pavements or other public spaces, no matter how they are dressed up or how often you see one going past. Vehicles being used unlawfully may be seized by police, and riders can be reported for offences that carry penalty points, fines and other enforcement action.

What to do if you see one

If you have information about the illegal use of e-scooters or electric bikes in your area, it can be reported via 101 or through the Devon & Cornwall Police website. There’s also a handy guide covering the rules around e-scooters and electric bikes in more detail.

📷Credit: Truro, Perranporth and Tregony Police