POLICE have seized a high-powered electric bike in Ringwood amid growing concerns over dangerous riding in busy public areas.

Officers from the local policing team say they have received multiple complaints about illegal electric bikes being ridden antisocially around the town centre and recreation ground.

In one report, riders were seen speeding through the Furlong shopping area, narrowly missing pedestrians.

Acting on the concerns, an unmarked police unit spotted one of the bikes being ridden through the town and later stopped the rider.

The bike was seized under Section 165 for having no insurance, and the rider has been prosecuted for traffic offences.

Police say the bike involved can reach speeds of up to 45mph – raising serious safety fears, particularly as those riding them are often not wearing helmets or protective gear.

Officers also highlighted that some of the bikes being used are not legally classified as electric pedal-assisted bicycles (EPACs), meaning they must be insured and used in line with road traffic laws.

In this case, the pedals were not connected to the bike’s drive system and were being used purely as footrests, making it illegal for use without proper registration and insurance.

A police spokesperson warned parents to be aware of what their children are riding.

They said: “If your child is riding around a bike such as this they are committing road traffic offences and putting themselves and others in danger.”

Officers say they will continue to take action against illegal electric bikes and are urging the public to report concerns, particularly where riders are putting pedestrians at risk.

The warning comes as complaints continue to rise locally, with police keen to prevent serious injury before it happens.