WIMMERA police have warned people riding motorised bicycles without licences could be breaking the law.
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Horsham Police Traffic Advisor Senior Sergeant Guin Cleminson said the majority of petrol powered bicycles were classed as motorcycles.
"A petrol motorised bicycle is not classed as a bicycle if the motor is the primary, or main source, of power or the motor's power output exceeds 200 watts," she said.
"The rider would be required to hold a motorcycle licence and have the vehicle registered before it could be used on roads.
"Motorcycles can not be ridden on a footpath or bicycle paths.
"Motorcycle riders must wear an approved motorcycle helmet and the motorcycle must comply with the standards of registration."
Sen Sgt Cleminson said most motors exceeded 200 watts.
"If the motor is an auxiliary motor and cuts out once the rider stops peddling it is most likely a bicycle, however, if the motor is the primary source of power, then it is a motor vehicle and classified as a motorcycle with no exemption or protection in law," she said.
Sen Sgt Cleminson said police would focus on motorised bicycles because of their safety risks.
She said police had received complaints from pedestrians and road users about motorised bicycles.
"Children as young as 12 are riding motorcycles at speeds of up to 70kmh on our footpaths, bike paths and roads without appropriate clothing, helmets, braking systems and licences," she said.
"This is a danger to themselves and the public."
Sen Sgt Cleminson said the bikes were dangerous and failed to comply with safety standards.
"In October, a 14 year old boy was killed while riding a motorised bicycle in New South Wales," she said.
"I want parents to realise the dangers around these bikes before someone is seriously injured or killed here."
Sen Sgt Cleminson said anyone who was riding the motorcycles without a valid licence would be committing the offence of driving while disqualified.
"Any person riding one of these motorcycles is liable for numerous fines including unregistered motorcycle, unlicensed driving, failure to wear a helmet, riding on a footpath, drink driving offences and careless driving," she said.
