Published: 30.8.22

Updated: 27.8.24

Are you wondering if your dirt bike or pit bike is street legal in the UK?

You're not the only one.

We know that a lot of you out there love riding your dirt bike or pit bike on the weekends, but what are the laws and regulations surrounding them? 

Don't worry, we’ve got you covered.

So if you want to ride your dirt bike or pit bike to the destination instead of loading it in a truck or towing it, this is the article for you!

Are Dirt Bikes or Pit Bikes Street Legal?

Unfortunately, dirt bikes or pit bikes are not road legal which means you can not ride them on public roads, public places such as parks, forests, footpaths, forests, and beaches.

The only place you are legally allowed to ride a dirt bike or pit bike is on private property with the landowners’ permission.

So if you want to take your bike out for a spin, you’ll need to find a friend with some private land or join an off-road motorcycle club that has access to trails and tracks.

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Why Can't Dirt Bikes or Pit Bikes Be Riden On The Public Roads?

Any motorised vehicle that is licensed and authorised to be used on public roads must meet certain safety requirements.

Dirt bikes and pit bikes do not have indicator lights, headlights, number plates, or mirrors which makes them unsafe and illegal to ride on the roads.

Additionally, dirt bikes and pit bikes are not designed to be ridden on tarmac as they have off-road tyres that can damage the road surface.

What Happens if you Get Caught Riding a Dirtbike or Pit Bike on the Road in the UK?

If you get caught riding your dirt bike or pit bike in the UK, you will likely be prosecuted in the Magistrates’ Court.

Your motorbike may also be seized by the police and you could lose your driving license.

It is illegal to ride a pit bike, dirt bike, or quad bike on public roads or in public places such as parks, beaches, and forests in the United Kingdom.

What is the Difference Between a Road Legal Bike and a Dirt Bike or Pit Bike?

A road legal bike is a motorcycle that has been designed and built to be ridden on public roads.

They have indicator lights, headlights, number plates, and mirrors as well as being fitted with tarmac-friendly tyres.

Dirt bikes and pit bikes, on the other hand, are designed for off-road use only.

They do not have any of the features that make a motorcycle road legal and their tyres are not suitable for tarmac.

The suspension and brakes are also not the same since an off-road bike will need stronger brakes and more durable suspension to deal with the rougher terrain.

Also, an off-road bike won't need to meet the same noise level restrictions and emissions as a road-legal motorcycle.

Related: Why Are Dirt Bikes So Expensive?

Motocross

The sport of motocross doesn't require riders to have number plates, headlights, horn, or an MOT certificate.

This is because motocross tracks are built on private land and are not open to the public. They are specifically designed for off-road riding.

If you want to ride a motocross bike on the road, you will need to adhere to the same rules as any other motorbike. This includes having number plates, lights, horn, and an MOT certificate.

However, you must still comply with noise restrictions set by the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

Two-strokes

There are few motorbikes that still use two-stroke engines and as a result, they are not subject to the same rules and regulations but have the ability to be used both on-road and off-road. However, since emissions regulations have come into place, many two-strokes have been phased out and are no longer legal for road use.

This means that if you want to ride a two-stroke bike on the road, you will need to make sure it is compliant with emissions regulations.

You will also need to have number plates, lights, horn, and an MOT certificate.

How Can I Make My Dirt Bike or Pit Bike Road Legal?

In order to make your dirt bike or pit bike road legal, you will need to make a few modifications.

You will need to add number plates, lights, horn, and mirrors. You will also need to ensure that your bike is compliant with emissions regulations and have a valid MOT, NOVA declaration.

Once you have made these modifications, you will then need to take your bike to a garage to get an MOT certificate.

Once you have an MOT certificate, you will then be able to register your bike with the DVLA and get road insurance.

Please note: Even if you make these modifications, your bike will still not be as safe as a standard road motorcycle and you may struggle to find insurance cover.

Certificate Of Newness

Also, if you want to make your motorbike road legal get a conformity certicate of newness. You can do this by obtaining a document from the manufacturer or vehicle importer which states that the motorcycle conforms to all European-type approval requirements. Other relevant factors include the engine size and when it was manufactured.

Licencing

Did you know that you don't need a licence to ride a dirt bike or pit bike in the UK?

However, if you want to ride your dirt bike on the road, you will need to get a full motorcycle licence. You can apply for a motorcycle licence when you turn 17 years old.

In order to get your motorcycle licence, you will need to pass a theory test and a practical test. Once you have passed these tests, you will be issued with a provisional licence.

You will then need to complete a compulsory basic training (CBT) course before you can ride on the roads.

The CBT course will teach you the basic skills and knowledge that you need to ride a motorcycle safely.

Once you have completed your CBT course, you will be issued with a certificate that is valid for two years. You will then be able to ride on the roads with L plates.

After you have had your motorcycle licence for two years, you will be able to take an advanced riding test.

Once you have passed this test, you will no longer need to display L plates on your motorcycle.

Dirt bikes can have significant environmental impacts, but there are regulations and best practices that riders can follow to minimise their ecological footprint.

Here's an overview of the key issues and solutions:

Environmental Impact of Dirt Bikes - Soil Erosion and Vegetation Damage.

Off-road vehicles can have significant impacts on soil and vegetation:

• Dirt bikes can churn up soil, leading to ruts, damaged root systems, and accelerated erosion.
• Vegetation can be directly damaged by vehicles driving over plants, potentially harming rare or protected species.
• Soil disturbance can lead to increased sedimentation in waterways, affecting aquatic ecosystems.

Wildlife Disturbance

The presence of dirt bikes can disrupt local wildlife:

• Engine noise can frighten animals, disrupting their feeding and breeding activities.
• Habitat destruction can occur as a result of vegetation damage and soil erosion, potentially impacting threatened species.
• Fragmentation of habitats may occur when new trails are created, affecting animal movement patterns.

Noise Pollution

Noise from dirt bikes can have far-reaching effects:

• Dirt bikes can produce noise levels up to 99 decibels or higher, which can be harmful to human hearing and disruptive to wildlife.
• In the UK, the Noise Act 1996 and Environmental Protection Act 1990 set limits on acceptable noise levels, which off-road motorcycles often exceed.

Emissions and Fuel Consumption

The environmental impact of dirt bikes extends to air quality and climate change:

• Dirt bikes typically lack sophisticated emissions systems, producing higher emissions per engine size compared to cars.
• Under Euro 5 standards, which came into effect in 2020, motorcycles must produce no more than 0.1 g/km of hydrocarbons, with non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHC) representing less than 68% of that amount.
• The sport contributes to fossil fuel consumption, raising concerns about sustainability and carbon footprint.

Emerging Solutions

To address these environmental concerns, several initiatives are underway:

• Electric dirt bikes are gaining popularity as a more environmentally friendly alternative, producing zero tailpipe emissions and significantly less noise.
• Some manufacturers are developing more efficient engines and improved exhaust systems to meet stricter emission standards like Euro 5.
• Organisations like Tread Lightly! promote responsible off-highway vehicle use, encouraging riders to stay on designated trails and minimise their impact.

UK-Specific Regulations

In the UK, there are specific regulations aimed at mitigating the environmental impact of dirt bikes:

• The Road Traffic Act 1988 makes it illegal to drive a mechanically propelled vehicle without lawful authority on common land, moorland, or land not forming part of a road.
• Both quad bikes and motorbikes must conform to the Road Vehicles (Construction & Use) Regulations 1986 when used on public roads.
• The Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 provides powers to police, councils, and other local agencies to tackle anti-social behavior involving off-road bikes.

By understanding and addressing these environmental impacts, riders and manufacturers can work towards more sustainable practices in dirt biking.

This includes adopting cleaner technologies, following responsible riding guidelines, and supporting conservation efforts in riding areas.

Dual Sport or Dirt bikes/Pit Bike?

Dual Sport Bikes

A dual sport bike is designed to be ridden both on and off-road. These bikes come equipped with standard road-legal features such as number plates, lights, horn, and mirrors. This means they can be ridden on public roads without any modifications.

Advantages of Dual Sport Bikes:

1. Versatility: Dual sport bikes offer the flexibility to ride on both tarmac and dirt trails, making them suitable for a variety of terrains.
2. Convenience: With all the necessary road-legal features, you can ride directly from your home to an off-road location without needing to transport your bike.
3. Cost-Effective: For those who commute during the week and enjoy off-roading on weekends, a dual sport bike eliminates the need for two separate bikes.
4. Durability: Built to handle rough terrain, dual sport bikes are robust and durable, capable of enduring more wear and tear than typical street bikes.

Disadvantages of Dual Sport Bikes:

1. Higher Cost: Dual sport bikes are generally more expensive than regular dirt bikes or pit bikes due to their enhanced features and versatility.
2. Compromised Performance: While they are capable on both road and off-road, dual sport bikes may not perform as well as specialised dirt bikes on rough trails or as smoothly as street bikes on tarmac.
3. Weight: Dual sport bikes tend to be heavier than dirt bikes, which can be a disadvantage in off-road conditions where lighter bikes are easier to maneuver.
4. Complex Maintenance: The dual-purpose nature of these bikes means they require maintenance for both road and off-road components, which can be more complex and costly.

Dirt Bikes/Pit Bikes

Dirt bikes and pit bikes are designed specifically for off-road use. They lack the road-legal features required to be ridden on public roads, such as number plates, lights, and mirrors.

Advantages of Dirt Bikes/Pit Bikes:

1. Specialised Performance: Designed for off-road conditions, these bikes excel in rough terrain, providing superior handling and agility.
2. Lightweight: Dirt bikes are generally lighter than dual sport bikes, making them easier to maneuver on trails.
3. Cost-Effective: Typically, dirt bikes and pit bikes are less expensive than dual sport bikes.
4. Simplicity: With fewer components and features, these bikes are often simpler to maintain and repair.

Disadvantages of Dirt Bikes/Pit Bikes:

1. Limited Use: These bikes cannot be ridden on public roads without significant modifications, limiting their usability.
2. Transportation Required: You will need to transport your dirt bike or pit bike to off-road locations using a truck or trailer.
3. Lack of Comfort: Dirt bikes are designed for short, intense rides on rough terrain, which can be less comfortable for longer rides or daily commuting.
4. Fewer Features: The lack of road-legal features means dirt bikes do not have conveniences like headlights or mirrors, which can be a disadvantage in certain off-road conditions.

Legal Consequences of Riding an Illegal Dirt Bike

Riding an illegal dirt bike or pit bike on public roads in the UK can result in severe legal repercussions.

It's crucial for riders to understand the potential consequences of non-compliance with the law.

Fines and Penalties

The financial impact of illegal dirt bike riding can be significant:

• Riders caught using an off-road bike on public roads can face fines of up to £1,000.
• If the case goes to court, the maximum fine can increase to £5,000, depending on the severity of the offense.
• In addition to fines, riders may also incur penalty points on their driving license, which can affect insurance premiums and potentially lead to license suspension.

Vehicle Seizure

Law enforcement has the authority to take immediate action against illegal riders:

• Police have the power to seize vehicles being used anti-socially or illegally under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002.
• Once seized, the owner must pay a release fee and provide proof of ownership to reclaim the vehicle. If unclaimed, the bike may be destroyed.

Driving Bans

Repeat offenders or those committing serious offenses may face more severe consequences:

• Courts have the authority to impose driving bans for illegal off-road riding, especially for repeat offenders.
• The length of the ban can vary depending on the circumstances but may range from several months to several years.

Criminal Record

Illegal dirt bike riding can result in a criminal record:

• Convictions for offenses related to illegal off-road riding can appear on criminal record checks.
• This can have long-term implications for employment prospects, especially in roles requiring a clean driving record.

Insurance Implications

Riding an uninsured vehicle carries its own set of consequences:

• Riding without insurance can result in a fixed penalty of £300 and 6 penalty points.
• If the case goes to court, there's a possibility of an unlimited fine and disqualification from driving.

Anti-Social Behavior Orders (ASBOs)

Persistent offenders may face additional legal measures:

• Local authorities can issue Anti-Social Behavior Orders to individuals repeatedly engaging in illegal off-road riding.
• Breaching an ASBO is a criminal offense and can result in fines or imprisonment.

Environmental Offenses

In cases where significant environmental damage occurs:

• Riders causing substantial damage to protected areas or wildlife habitats may face prosecution under environmental protection laws.
• This can result in hefty fines and potential community service orders.

Understanding these legal consequences is crucial for anyone considering riding a dirt bike or pit bike in the UK.

The penalties are designed not only to punish offenders but also to deter illegal riding and protect public safety and the environment.

Always ensure your vehicle is road legal and you have the necessary permissions before riding on public roads or off-road areas.

In Summary

So there you have it, now you know why you can't just buy a dirt bike or pit bike and ride it on the roads. You will need to make some modifications and obtain an MOT certificate.

You will also need to have a full motorcycle licence in order to ride on the roads.

However, if you just want to ride off-road, then you don't need a licence or insurance. But, you will still need to follow the off-road code.

We hope that this article has been helpful and that you now have a better understanding of what is required in order to ride a dirt bike or pit bike on the roads in the UK.

FAQs

At what age can you ride a dirt bike or pit bike?

There is no strict legal age limit for riding dirt bikes or pit bikes off-road in the UK. Children as young as 3 years old can start riding small electric dirt bikes under supervision. However, to ride on public roads, you must be at least 17 years old and have a full motorcycle license.

Do I need insurance to ride a dirt bike or pit bike?

Insurance is not required for off-road use on private property. However, if you want to ride on public roads, you will need motorcycle insurance and the bike must be road legal.

Can I ride a dirt bike or pit bike on the pavement?

No, you cannot ride a dirt bike or pit bike on the pavement. These bikes can only be ridden on off-road tracks, private land with the owner's permission, or public roads if made road legal.

Can I ride a dirt bike or pit bike without a helmet?

No, you cannot ride a dirt bike or pit bike without a helmet. Wearing a helmet that complies with British safety standards is mandatory for both off-road and on-road riding.

How often should I perform maintenance on my dirt bike?

Regular maintenance checks should be performed before each ride, including inspecting tyres, brakes, and controls. More comprehensive maintenance should follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

What type of fuel should I use for my dirt bike?

Most dirt bikes run on unleaded gasoline. Check your bike's owner's manual for the recommended fuel type, as some performance bikes may require higher-octane fuel.

How can I make my dirt bike quieter?

To reduce noise, install a quiet exhaust system and ensure proper maintenance. Regular servicing can help reduce excessive noise.

Can I convert my dirt bike for road use?

Yes, you can convert a dirt bike for road use by installing necessary components like lights, mirrors, a horn, and a speedometer. The bike must also meet emissions standards, pass an MOT inspection, and be registered with the DVLA.

Are there any specific trails where I can ride my dirt bike legally?

Yes, there are designated off-road trails, motocross tracks, and enduro trails across the UK where you can ride legally. Green lanes may also be accessible for road-legal bikes. Always check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before riding.