The illegal use of off‑road bikes such as quad bikes, scramblers, mini‑motos and go‑peds continues to cause significant problems for local communities across North Manchester.
While these vehicles are often marketed as recreational, there is nowhere legal within Manchester for them to be ridden on public land.
When used illegally, they create serious safety risks and contribute to anti‑social behaviour (ASB).
The Impact on Residents and Neighbourhoods
Off‑road bikes are frequently ridden through parks, green spaces, pavements and waste ground, particularly during the spring and summer months.
This behaviour causes persistent noise disturbance, damages public land and footpaths, and disrupts wildlife habitats.
High‑speed riding in areas used by families and children poses a major risk to public safety, and in some cases riders behave in a way that feels intimidating, leaving residents feeling unsafe in their own neighbourhoods.
Illegal off‑road biking is also often linked with wider ASB, including vandalism and disorder.
Riders themselves are also at risk, as these bikes offer little protection and can cause serious injury or even death to both riders and pedestrians.
The Legal Position
It is illegal to ride off‑road bikes on any public land in Manchester, including parks, pavements, playing fields, waste ground and parkways. Riding is only permitted on private land with the express permission of the landowner.
To be ridden on the road, a bike must be fully road‑legal. This means the rider must be over 16 and the vehicle must be registered, taxed, insured, have a valid MOT, and the rider must hold a licence and wear an approved helmet.
Bikes that do not meet these requirements can be seized.
Police and councils have powers under the ASB, Crime and Policing Act 2014 to issue warnings, seize vehicles and take enforcement action. Parents and guardians may also be held responsible if children are found riding illegally, and tenancy enforcement action may be considered where relevant.
Is There Anywhere Legal to Ride?
There are no legal locations within Manchester to ride off‑road bikes. However, there are organised clubs and authorised sites across the North West that operate legally. The Amateur Motorcycle Association (AMCA) can provide information about approved events and practice grounds.
Why Reporting Matters
Reports from residents are crucial in helping the police and council target problem areas and take effective action.
Greater Manchester Police actively deal with illegal off‑road bikes through Operation Handbrake, which focuses on seizing bikes being used illegally and causing ASB.
How to Report Off‑Road Bikes
If you see off‑road bikes being used illegally, you can:
- Report it to the police by calling 101,
- Complete the Greater Manchester Police ASB online reporting form
- Call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
If there is immediate danger to people, you should always call 999.
When reporting, it helps to provide as much detail as possible. This includes where and when the incident happened, what type of bike was involved, what the rider was wearing, whether they were wearing a helmet, their approximate age, and any names or addresses if known.
Working Together to Keep Communities Safe
Illegal off‑road biking has a real impact on quality of life, safety and wellbeing. By reporting incidents and sharing information, residents play a vital role in helping reduce ASB and protect shared spaces for everyone.
If You Know a Bike is Stored in Council Property
If you are aware of an off-road bike being stored within a council property, we would like to hear from you.
Please report any such information to us by calling 03000 123 123 or via our web form. Your help is invaluable in ensuring our communities remain safe and secure for everyone.
