Richmond motorcyclist loses bike and licence after Sea to Sky stunt

A 20-year-old Richmond motorcyclist has had his bike impounded and his learner’s licence taken away after police say he was speeding and stunt riding on Highway 99 near Furry Creek.

B.C. Highway Patrol said a laser reading recorded the blue Suzuki travelling 146 km/h in an 80 km/h zone on July 18. An officer riding behind the motorcycle was trying to record its temporary plate and find a safe location for a traffic stop when the rider performed a wheelie and accelerated away.

The officer activated lights and siren and later stopped the rider. Police said the motorcycle also lacked legally required mirrors. Sgt. Michael McLaughlin said the rider co-operated once he realized police were stopping him and was not trying to flee.

The rider, who held a Class 8 motorcycle learner licence and had recently completed an earlier driving prohibition, received tickets for excessive speed and driving without due care and attention. The fines totalled $851, and the motorcycle was impounded for seven days at his expense.

A high-risk driving report sent to B.C.’s Superintendent of Motor Vehicles resulted in a six-month driving prohibition. Police estimate the rider’s total costs, including impound charges and at least three years of high-risk insurance premiums, will exceed $2,800.