What we're doing - mini-motos
Page content
Safe Newcastle has ran a number of campaign to target the illegal use of mini-motos. The Be Safe Be Legal campaign was initially launched in August 2006 and aimed to educate parents about the dangers of mini-motos and the legal issue surrounding ownership.
Although marketed as toys, the miniature motorbikes can reach speeds of up to 60mph. Many parents do not realise that mini-motos are classed as motorbikes under the law and are treated exactly the same as full size-motorbikes - requiring safety equipment and documentation including driving licences and insurance. Mini-motos cannot be ridden on public or common land owned by the council or where permission of the landowner has not been given. There are no public areas in Newcastle where mini-motos can be ridden legally.
A radio campaign, posters on buses, leaflets and signage in hotpost areas were used to raise public awareness. Working with the police, the force helicopter and extra police officers were drafted in to tackle any hotpspot areas.
Follow up campaigns have been run including a Christmas campaign urging parents not to buy mini-motos for their children and two Safe and Legal events where young people were given the chance to ride their mini-motos legally and under the expert guidance of ACU. Click on the new items below for more information.
News items
Young people give Safe and Legal event the thumbs up! 23 july 08
Newcastle's first ever Safe and Legal event 1 June 2007
Don't buy a mini-moto this Christmas 10 December 2006
Mini-motos : Be Safe Be Legal 2 August 2006
Mini-motos causing anti-social behaviour 21 January 2006
