The Solo Unit spent time patrolling in Brimbank last week. 84182 Picture: LAURA WAKELY
By LAURA WAKELY
OFF-ROAD police are warning riders to fix reckless behaviour or face tough penalties.
The Solo Unit, which is made up of police members on dirt bikes, is cracking down on off-road motorbike riders in the coming months.
The unit will receive 15 new bikes over the next few weeks, giving police a stronger presence patrolling hard-to-reach metropolitan areas such as laneways, reserves, bike paths, parks and forests.
Visiting Keilor last week, Senior Sergeant Dan Hilton said the increasing urban sprawl of the West was leading to an increase in complaints about dirt bikes.
He said off-road biking was illegal and has proven to result in pedestrian collisions.
But police are also concerned about the safety hazards for riders, with 20 per cent of serious motorcycle injuries a result of off-road biking.
“Nearly any place you can walk you can put a motorbike,” Snr Sgt Hilton said.
“Trail bike riding is a legitimate and fun form of recreation, however there are a small minority of people that spoil the sport for everyone else.”
He said the road rules apply to all types of motorcycles, including mini bikes.
Unlicensed and unregistered riders can face penalties of more than $700 for each offence.
Victoria Police works with Parks Victoria, local councils and the Department of Sustainability and Environment to enforce the legislation.
