Suspended Sentence for Motorcyclist Filmed Doing 111mph Wheelie

A motorcyclist operating a high-performance bike, captured on video performing a wheelie at 111 mph (179 km/h) while on the incorrect side of the road, has received a suspended prison term. North Yorkshire Police reported that Sam Woodward was carrying a passenger on his Yamaha YZF R-1 when he executed this stunt on the B1248 Beverley Road, close to Norton-on-Derwent, during May. Police stated that the 27-year-old individual, a resident of Driffield, subsequently did not comply with officers’ instructions to stop and later falsely claimed his motorcycle had been stolen. He admitted guilt to a charge of dangerous driving, and on Monday at Scarborough Magistrates’ Court, he was handed a 24-week custodial sentence, which was suspended for one year. Additionally, he received a one-year driving disqualification. North Yorkshire Police indicated that video evidence of Woodward’s operation of the vehicle depicted him “tearing towards” a safety camera van on the evening of May 31. He was observed traveling on the incorrect side of the road, with the front wheel elevated, while transporting a pillion passenger. The police force added that he then passed the camera at a speed of 111 mph moments later. Sergeant Michael Ray commented that law enforcement personnel would not “tolerate drivers who use public roads as their own personal racing track.” He further stated, “This standard of driving is very clearly unacceptable and Woodward put himself, his passenger and other road users at risk of serious injury or even death.” Additionally, Woodward received a directive to complete 200 hours of unpaid community service and to remit £239 for court costs and surcharges.