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Motorized Scooters/Mini Bikes

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Posted by: PATS246

Anyone know where motorized scooters and/or minibikes fall under the law. I know that we have a by-law in regards to any type of bike or scooter on a sidewalk. I'm talking about those new stand up scooters that have a motor on the back. I have also seen an increase in "suped up" mini bikes. Anyone know where those fall under. Do they fall under motorized bicyles or what.
I saw a kid riding what I would describe as a mini bike, driving down the road the other day, the kid didnt appear old enough to have a license, was wearing a helmet and had not plate or registration stickers on it. I was off duty so I didn't bother with anything. Anyone have any similar incidents/problems. If so I would like to have some input as to what they could be charged under.
Thanks


Posted by: Foxracingmtnridr

I live in Newton and all the kids in my neighborhood have those and they bomb up and down the streets all day and night long. But it's really bad on Fri. and Sat. nights. and when they were on Vacation. Could they get cited for disturbing the peace after 10pm? cause those things are loud and i mean if i started my chainsaw after 10 i'd get cited for disturbing the peace probably.

If there are any Newton guys on here come hang around D&A Pizza in the Lake more often and get these little mushes to calm it down

Pretty please :P


Posted by: Curious EMT

I feel so cool, I can answer a question!!!
MGL Ch 90 defines a Motorized bicycle as " ""Motorized bicycle'', a pedal bicycle which has a helper motor, or a non-pedal bicycle which has a motor, with a cylinder capacity not exceeding fifty cubic centimeters, an automatic transmission, and which is capable of a maximum speed of no more than thirty miles per hour."
and MGL Ch 90 Sect 1D specifies "Any person who is engaged in the business of buying or selling bicycles or motorized bicycles shall, upon the sale of such motorized bicycle, affix a sticker or plate which shall bear a distinctive number, as prescribed by the registrar, to said bicycle upon a fee to be determined annually by the commissioner of administration under the provision of section three B of chapter seven. Said fee shall be forwarded to the registry of motor vehicles by such person. Said sticker shall be renewed biannually in the manner prescribed by the registrar."
Mopeds, motorized scooters, and so called "pocket bikes" (mineature sport race bike) qualifys, from what I understand...
Also sect 1B of MGL Ch 90 specifies the regulations of operations. Lisences ./ permits are necessary. Unregisterd vehicle, operating withut lisence, operating vehicle not meeting regulations, and operating without a helmit sound like just a few.. Sorry, i dont know particular wording...


Posted by: COLE

Those little kids are out of control. We get 10 calls some nights on them in the Jasset and Faxon St area. I am under the impression that the engine size is to small to fall under the MGL. We try to get the residents to call their aldermen, but so far there are no ordinances in Newton to take care of the problem.


Posted by: RPD931

My understanding is that they, after reading MV laws, (operator) must be at least 16 and have at least a driver's permit to operate such bikes on a public way. They cannot operate on a permit at night. However, on private property they can do what they want. No riders are permitted under the permit. Another "scare" tactic would be to let these kids know that the registry could prohibit them from obtaining their permit/license until they are 18, and if operating with a permit after dark or other violations, their permit could be suspended and/or revoked. I'm sure if you send the kid walking home with over a $100 in fines he might learn his lesson. Follow up at home with the parents. Remember, the best place to talk to a kid and help him is in the living room with his folks, not behind bars with his/her attorney.

can anyone else back me or add more on this??


Posted by: ejk55

Leave the kids alone. Those "mini" bikes are cool.


Posted by: bbelichick

Quote:
Originally Posted by ejk55
Leave the kids alone. Those "mini" bikes are cool.
How so? The fact that they're very dangerous or the fact that they're extremely loud and annoying? Which of those is "cool"?


Posted by: SPINMASS

the mini bikes themselves are not the problem it's the improper and irresponsible use of kids. Most of these kids aren't 18 where are the parents. I'm not putting all the blame to the parents but they have some responsibility and will be the first to yell about the cops not doing there jobs when there kid gets hit on a scooter or minibike being stupid. If used properly a scooter or minibike should be no more of a problem than a bike or motorcycle.


Posted by: RPD931

Anyone have input on the legal aspect??


Posted by: RPD931

As far as the minibikes, I think they would fall under this if the max. speed is under 30 mph. From the RMV site:
To comply with state law, a rider and any passenger must wear a DOT standard helmet. Operating a Moped Under Massachusetts law, mopeds fall into the category of “motorized bicycles” (with or without pedals) and are therefore regulated by driver’s license rules. You must have a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit to operate a moped. Mopeds must have automatic transmissions and cylinder capacities of no more than 50 cubic centimeters. In addition, mopeds must meet all federal safety standards and have maximum speeds of no more than 30 mph. The following limitations apply:
• You may not drive at a speed greater than
25 mph.
• You may not ride on state highways or
limited-access roads with signs prohibiting
bicycles.
• You must use the proper hand signals before
stopping or turning.
• While you may use bicycle lanes along roadways,
you may not ride on off-street recreational
paths.
• You and any passenger must wear DOT
standard helmets.
• You may not carry a passenger if you are
operating on a permit.
----------------------------------------------------

Operating after dark on a permit is arrestable, just as if they don't have a permit or license. As far as the scooters, not a clue... I would assume they fall under "motorized bike" as it has 2 wheels and a motor and operates under 30 mph.. but we all know what happens when we assume... I would like to know the answer myself. Anyone here have experiences with these scooters????


Posted by: Deuce

We're getting a huge influx of the "pocket bikes" in Worcester. They're kinda neat, but the nitwits riding them are screwing up traffic.. Legals in the process of writing up an ordinance, hopefully banning them, but until then we're using the motorized bike (moped) laws. If it's under 50cc, which they usually are (49cc), and has a seat they are mopeds. 16 with a LP, 16.5 with a DL, reg sticker, helmet, no passengers, rules of the road, etc... If they're dinks 90-10 and a tow, if not tow it and let mom pay for that and storage.. That will get old quick....


Posted by: Foxracingmtnridr

Quote:
Originally Posted by COLE
Those little kids are out of control. We get 10 calls some nights on them in the Jasset and Faxon St area. I am under the impression that the engine size is to small to fall under the MGL. We try to get the residents to call their aldermen, but so far there are no ordinances in Newton to take care of the problem.
well they like to leave them infront of the pizza joint maybe i can just snatch their spark plugs j/k

Scott


Posted by: RPD931

Quote:
well they like to leave them infront of the pizza joint maybe i can just snatch their spark plugs
Reminds me of this... http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/sfo/27499971.html


Posted by: LeadDog17

Quote:
Originally Posted by RPD931
Quote:
well they like to leave them infront of the pizza joint maybe i can just snatch their spark plugs
Reminds me of this... http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/sfo/27499971.html

I was thinking the same thing, rpd!

sapd, is there something you'd like to confess to all of us? We can get you help! :P


Posted by: texdep

Would suggest anyone interested contact the Shrewsbury Police Dept. Shrewsbury Town Meeting Just approved a Police Department Sponsored By-Law banning the operation of the motorized skateboards/mini scooters within the town. I'm sure the would be happy to provide details so that other towns could do the same.


Posted by: jackal

texdep wrote:
Quote:
Would suggest anyone interested contact the Shrewsbury Police Dept. Shrewsbury Town Meeting Just approved a Police Department Sponsored By-Law banning the operation of the motorized skateboards/mini scooters within the town. I'm sure the would be happy to provide details so that other towns could do the same.
It's great that they are stepping up to the plate. I'm sure more towns will follow suit. These scooters are getting out of control. This past fall, we had a kid going down a major street run a red light and T-bone a car going across the intersection. The kid was thrown over the trunk. Luckily he was wearing a helmet and received no serious injuries, although left a considerable dent in the car, not to mention his parent's frightening experience when they got the call that their son was on his way to the hospital. Unfortunately, it seems to always take someone getting seriously injured in order for a law to come out.


Posted by: badogg88

Quote:
RPD931 wrote:
Quote:
well they like to leave them infront of the pizza joint maybe i can just snatch their spark plugs


Reminds me of this... http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/sfo/27499971.html
Hahaha I was thinking the same thing!


Posted by: fscpd907

Towns: No vrroom for scooters
By Casey Ross
Sunday, June 13, 2004

Communities statewide are cracking down on motorized scooters that have become a noisy nuissance to neighbors and a safety threat to young drivers who use them to whip through traffic at high speeds.

``It's like the mini-Hell's Angels have visited our neighborhoods,'' said William Manzi, City Council president in Methuen, the latest community to consider banning scooters. ``I've personally seen some pretty bad driving and weaving in and out of live traffic.''

Despite the safety threat they pose, Massachusetts does not have a law regulating motorized scooters, which can be driven by children of all ages. The state's Registry of Motor Vehicles proposed a bill to restrict their use in 2002, but the legislation has languished in committee.

Meanwhile, manufacturers are churning out increasingly sophisticated scooters that are made to look like Harley Davidson choppers and other popular motorcycles. Many are sold online for $300 to $800 each.

Police said some of the newer models pose a particular danger because they rise only 2 feet off the ground and are difficult to see in traffic.

``They can go 30 miles per hour and kids are driving them down sidewalks,'' said Peabody police Sgt. Bill Cook, whose community banned motorized scooters last year. ``If someone doesn't see them, you can end up with a fatality.''

Because scooters are not regulated, there are no reliable statistics on the number of accidents. But police say they have seen plenty of injuries involving scooter collisions.

Among the communities to institute bans or other restrictions are Lawrence, Haverhill, Peabody, Beverly, Salem and Arlington. Methuen city councilors are expected to vote on a ban within the next few weeks.

Dan Donahue, a Methuen parent, is among a few voices speaking against the proposed ban. He said two of his sons ride scooters and are careful not to cause problems in their neighborhood.

``If kids are misbehaving on bikes, what are you going to do? Ban those, too?'' Donahue said. ``They're my sons and I'm responsible for their safety. The government has too much control.''

He said he agrees with banning some of the newer scooters because of how difficult they are to see in traffic, but his sons drive more common models that consist of a skateboard, handlebars and 1.5 horsepower engine.

``Give kids a break,'' Donahue said. ``Let them play.''


Posted by: sibsjr



I want to put this out there and see what the consensus is. The other night I was on patrolling on rte 9. This nitwit was riding his "vespa" style scooter in the first lane. It was raining and dark and this guy was driving like a moron. Against my better judgment I stopped him toi tell him to get off the busy roadway so I don't end up writing an accident report about him getting run over. After a short confrontation and convinving him he did not want to fight me. I find out this is a guy I arrested three months ago. He is revoked and did 60 days for operating after revoked for multiple OUI's. The scooter was also not registered. I had him pay for a tow and sent him on his way. Under 90-1 the charges are civil. This guy is revoke and an idiot to boot. I am not sure if I can charge him with operating after revocation on a scooter. This seems stupid and I would not normally think twice about it, but the next day I saw the idiot driving down the street again. The scooter is still unregistered.

This guy obviously does not get it and needs another 60 day "vacation".

Any thoughts?


Posted by: RPD931

Idiot in the Rain + Dark = Wood shampoo... j/k...well, sorta..

Nail operation unreg. and after susp... just keep nailing him until the Courts or RMV can't stand him either


Posted by: PATS246

Half the people driving them are revoked or suspended, and they think that is there "free" ride.


Posted by: RPD931

In my town, the scooters aren't really a problem, the ATV's are. Like any problem, it's a pest. The best way to rid of a pest is to keep after it... nail 'em all.


Posted by: dh18

REV/RRV = no operation of ANY motorized vehicle.... mopeds, scooters, and even ATVs included, correct?


Posted by: PATS246

http://www.mass.gov/legis/bills/house/ht01544.htm

AN ACT RELATIVE TO THE REGULATIONS OF MOTORIZED SCOOTERS.


Posted by: 40th MPOC#309

Thank you Pats-master. Pretty simple stuff.


Posted by: j809

Quote:
REV/RRV = no operation of ANY motorized vehicle.... mopeds, scooters, and even ATVs included, correct?
Had a case like this at MCCPD. Guy on moped riding on sidewalk had a REV/RRV license. Charged him with 90/23 but dismissed. All violations are $25 except OUI on Moped can be arrestable. Scooters would fall under 90/23. Now is that new legislation change a done deal or just a petition?


Posted by: futureofficer04

Anyone know if there is a ban/regulation in the taunton area re these mini bikes???


Posted by: Elusk4

O.K. I must say I am sick of answering calls for "the kids on scooters". But people call to complain when they are on the street and in the parks. I agree get them off the streets but let the kids have some fun. Let them ride in the parks, besides those things are cool and I want one. We were all kids once, and all used to get chased on our dirt bikes when we tried to sneak it on the street and go for a blast before the neighbors called the police.
Hey sapd218 you must live on Cook st.


Posted by: stm4710

Outright bans are not the way to go.

On the noise complaint thing......

If im rideing a pocket bike in my yard and its a reasonable hour(I dont have a bike myself )----F the nieghbors.
Im to the point now that im tierd of the double standerds in my neighborhood. They have their friends park illegally all over the street saturday and sunday for thier partys, blast thier music,leave intoxicated and ride on thier lawn tractors, I dont bother calling the PD cause im not that tit for tatty and I know the PD here have other things to do.

....................but god help me if I start up my Registerd/Insured/Inspected quiet Honda CX 500 or need to mow my lawn in the afternnoon or use my tractor to do yard work.........the reaction I get is the same is if I walked over and slapped a baby and they sometimes place a call to the PD after they tell me to turn of X machine and I tell them to no. .


Posted by: reno911_2004

Mini Bikes r so much fun!!


Posted by: Mech.

Hey Reno911_2004 don't forget your HELMET!!!


Posted by: melissa112580

i wish they ban those mini bikes........they are terrible........no one is wearing a helmet....they buzz in and out of traffic.....a majority of the people operating them have lost there license........


Posted by: RPD931

Once they operate them on a public way they are Motor Vehicles and are subject to the rules of the road! Must have permit/license and follow all traffic laws and must be registered..


Posted by: TripleSeven

I'm getting tired of kids flying up and down my street (with no helmet) on these noisy bikes! One of these days i'm gonna lay down a spike strip....


Posted by: kwflatbed

Thanks PATS246 this saved me a lot of looking at MGL.


Posted by: RPD931

Anyone have the link to the new legislation?


Posted by: kwflatbed

http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/90-1.htm
http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/90-1b.htm
http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/90-1c.htm
http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/90-1d.htm


Posted by: Curious EMT

Quote:
Originally Posted by EMcNeice";p=&quot View Post
One of these days i'm gonna lay down a spike strip....
Sector 4, backup sector 3. 12 Maple street. We have an altercation in the roadway. Apparetnly the Neighborhood Action Team set out a stopstick to stop the children from riding their scooters on the road.




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