Mini-motos, quad bikes and off-road vehicles - a guide for retailers
(for all nations)
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Off-road vehicles, such as mini-motorbikes, quad bikes and electric scooters, have become increasingly popular in recent years as recreational vehicles for both adults and children. The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008 apply to most off-road vehicles. These Regulations exclude those intended for use in competitions, for on the road use, and for those covered under the Toy (Safety) Regulations 1995 (as below).
When assessing the safety of a product, a number of matters are taken into consideration including the packaging, labelling and instructions, the effect of the product on other products and the special needs of certain people, eg children.
Anyone in the supply chain, including retailers, can be held liable for the supply of unsafe products. British Standard BS 7407:1991 applies to vehicles for children, which are powered by combustion engines. For other vehicles intended for children without a combustion engine (eg scooter) there are safety requirements in the Toy (Safety) Regulations 1995 and the Standard BS EN 71.
Traders should carry out basic checks on vehicles before supply including checking the frame is not damaged, that nuts and bolts are secure, tyres are properly inflated, and steering is aligned. The vehicle sold must be of satisfactory quality, fit for the purpose, and as described. There are rules relating to the legal and illegal use of off-road vehicles which should be passed on to the consumer.
