Police have warned motorcycle and bicycle riders not to do “wheelies” in traffic after a raft of complaints.

A police spokesman said officers had received a number of reports about wheelies on the island’s roads — sometimes while riding against the flow of traffic.

The spokesman said: “While those involved may see this activity as harmless, it is anything but.

“Performing these stunts in public spaces poses a threat not only other individuals using these areas, but also to the riders themselves due the increased risk of a collision resulting in serious injury or worse.

“Doing wheelies in traffic or in a public place constitutes dangerous driving.”

The spokesman noted that the offence of dangerous driving carries an automatic period of disqualification.

Chief Inspector Robert Cardwell, of the BPS Tactical Support Division, said: “The Bermuda Police Service is aware of groups of individuals, mainly young males, performing wheelies on pedal cycles whilst riding against the flow of traffic, particularly on main roads.

“We urge parents and guardians to speak with their children about the dangers of this activity and advise them against it.

“As for motorists, if you are operating a vehicle and find yourself faced with an individual or group of individuals doing wheelies on a motorcycle or pedal bike, approaching you on your side of the road, please come to a safe and complete stop and allow them to go by.”

Members of the public are asked to report incidents of dangerous driving by calling police on 211 or 295-0011.