Wellingborough neighbourhood officers have seized five Sur-Ron electric off-road bikes in Wellingborough in the 24 hours up to February 3, 2026, following a surge in local complaints about dangerous riding.
Officers targeted residential hotspots including the Hemmingwell estate and Western Way after residents and police reported riders operating in an anti-social manner — riding on pavements and in some cases being observed at high speeds. Local briefings and community reports have cited speeds often in the 40–60 mph range; some Sur-Ron models are capable of up to 70 mph.
Northamptonshire Police officers, including PC Ben Morris and PC Russell Barnes, said the operation was a direct response to concerns raised by residents on the town’s estates. The e-bikes seized are often used on public roads without the requisite insurance, registration and licences, creating noise and safety risks for families, pedestrians and commuters.
Local residents posting on the Northamptonshire Talking community alert system have highlighted the problem and been informed about strengthened enforcement powers. Under recent changes linked to the 2025 Crime and Policing Bill and associated secondary legislation, police may seize vehicles being used in an anti-social manner without first issuing a warning, and the reclaim period for certain seized vehicles has been reduced in guidance/consultation documents to 48 hours to allow faster disposal — including crushing — if an owner cannot prove the vehicle is road‑legal. Contact Northamptonshire Police press office for confirmation on whether the 48‑hour fast‑track disposal will be applied to these specific seizures.
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