Mountain Biking North Otago

By Debbie Halkett | Posted: Tuesday March 24, 2026

Mountain Biking North Otago, with support from the Waitaki District Council and local Police, is issuing a reminder that Surrons and all high-powered electric motorcycles are PROHIBITED on our local MTB tracks and reserves (including Cape Wanbrow, the Reservoir, and Herbert Forest).

Why the ban?

  • Safety: They are too fast and heavy for shared-use trails.

  • Damage: High torque destroys the tracks our volunteers work hard to maintain.

  • Legal: These are classified as motor vehicles. Using them on council reserves can result in fines of up to $1,600 and vehicle seizure.

Pedal-assist e-bikes (under 300W) are still welcome!

Please respect the trails and the safety of other users. Keep the throttle-bikes to private land or designated MX tracks.