Video: Does crushing motorcycles deter illegal riding?

Across the pond, operating off-road vehicles like dirt bikes and quads on public roads attracts police attention in a hurry. Street motorcycles and scooters operated in an "anti-social" manner also get confiscated, usually for theft or speeding, and when the rozzers’ stash of troublesome vehicles gets too big, some send the bikes to the crusher.

“The bikes themselves are not illegal to own, of course, but when they’re on the road, they need to be insured, taxed, [and] MOT’ed,” says Nick Adderly, Chief Constable of Northamptonshire Police and National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) lead for motorcycling. “It causes a real danger, especially to young people and families that are out there [in public open spaces].When these things go ripping past, it’s a real danger to them.” Adderly goes on to explain that he’s a lifelong rider and supporter of legal riding, but clearly he feels no remorse over the crushing. The remains of the confiscated vehicles will be displayed publicly as an example to other riders who ride illegally. I can picture it now… “Hey, there’s Oliver’s bike!” 

I’m not going to pretend that I think crushing bikes is the best move, unless the Northamptonshire police have some evidence that their displays of mangled metal will deter nuisance riders. What would you do with a few dozen confiscated dirt bikes, street bikes, ATVs, and scooters to make the world of motorcycling a better place? Part ‘em out to raise money? Start an all-constables MX series? Or something else?