Dirt bike riders causing chaos in Aussie suburbs

Unregistered dirt bike riders are revving through suburban streets at all hours, using busy highways for stunt shows, and knocking families off footpaths.

Police say they've ramped up efforts, but frustrated locals say it's not enough to deter the dirt bike bandits.

"It just shows you their mentality, they're just doing it to show off," NSW Police Inspector Michael McKechnie said.

In the Illawarra, south of Sydney, dirt bike riders are using a footpath as a shortcut between suburbs.

But police need to catch the riders in the act to arrest them. And chasing illegal riders isn't always the safest option, McKechnie said.

"If they choose not to stop or ride through parks and footpaths, police need to lay up the risk to the riders, community and themselves when trying to apprehend them," he said.

"There are some electric dirt bikes that don't have pedals which can get up to 60, 80, even 100 kilometres an hour.

"If you come off, it's the same as riding a petrol powered bike."

Illawarra police ramped up efforts last year, with the introduction of their own police-issued bikes.

In a statement, Wollongong City Council said it takes road and pedestrian safety seriously and shares the concerns and frustrations of our community about illegal driver behaviour.

"Members of our community have raised concerns with us regarding illegal dirt bike use on public land, such as roads, laneways, creeks and parks," the statement read.

"Illegal dirt bike use is a matter for NSW Police and carries significant penalties and fines.

"Through our Local Transport Forum, Council works closely with NSW Police and Transport for NSW to address ongoing community concerns and report hot-spot locations for illegal and unsafe driver behaviour.

"Council works toward keeping roads, shared paths, and lanes safe and accessible for everyone, including people walking, cycling, or using wheelchairs or mobility scooters. While we understand concerns about illegal use of motorcycles and dirt bikes, physical barriers like chicanes, bollards or rails are generally not recommended as they can create additional safety hazards and block safe access for people who are using the path or road legally.

"Anyone who witnesses illegal and unsafe driver behaviour, whether it be motorbikes or any other vehicle, should immediately report it to NSW Police on 131 444 or via Crime Stoppers (1800 333 000) with as much detail as possible."