Bolehills BMX track in Sheffield has suffered vandalism from Sur-Ron motorised bikes. The damage —deep ruts on the jumps— occurred in February, 2025, just months before the track’s planned reopening after major renovations. It is the second time this year!
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The local BMX and MTB community is frustrated, with volunteers working tirelessly to restore the track. In a social media statement, they warned that if the destruction continues, it could mean “the end of Bolehills as you know it...If setbacks like this keep on happening we just don't have the manpower or the time to keep fixing it up. ”
In response, South Yorkshire’s Motorcycle and Rural Crime Team has pledged increased patrols. South Yorkshire Police has also urged anyone who sees motorcycles on the track to call 999 and warned offenders would be prosecuted and bikes seized.Offenders risk prosecution and having their bikes seized.
Despite the setbacks, the Bolehills crew remains committed, planning public dig days to keep the track on track for its May 3, 2025 reopening. With over 40 years of history, the community is determined to preserve this legendary BMX spot. If you want to support them you contribute to Bolehills here.
Hopefully this is isolated. I'm aware that there are growing problems are occurring across golf courses in the UK with Quad Bikes e.g. In January, Horndon Park Golf Club in Brentwood had major damage from quad bikes and they are not alone i.e. similar issues at Gotts Park Golf Club, Leeds, Belfairs Golf Club, Essex and Southampton Municipal Golf Course over the last couple of years.
As regards Sur-Ron bike damage I am not aware of other incidents in the UK but across the ponds last year the Squamish BMX club in British Columbia saw significant damage as did Hawke's Bay BMX in New Zealand from SuR-Ron bikes so one to keep an eye on. Clearly a challenge for recreational facilities especially those that rely on volunteer effort and limited funds. Putting up fences and CCTV isn't an easy option for volunteer run and funded facilities.
In the UK, Sur-Ron bikes are generally illegal to ride on BMX and MTB tracks unless the landowner explicitly allows motorised vehicles. They can be ridden off-road, but only on:
✅ Private land (with the landowner’s permission)
✅ Official off-road parks designated for motorbikes or e-motorcycles
✅ Byways Open to All Traffic (BOATs) and some Green Lanes (if the bike is road-registered, taxed, and insured)
If you see illegal use of Sur-Ron bikes in public spaces, report it to the police as they can issue fines, seize bikes, or prosecute under anti-social behaviour laws.
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