Riding a dirt bike is a lot of fun, but unfortunately you can’t just ride your bike anywhere you want. There are rules, laws, and regulations that need to be followed whenever you ride and these differ from state to state. For most states, it is illegal to ride your dirt bike on the road. Let’s learn more about where you can ride and why!
Where Can You Ride a Dirt Bike Legally?
The easiest way to ride your dirt bike is in your own backyard. No one can tell you whether you can ride your bike or not but remember that noise violations and pollution laws exist. If your property is close to other homes you might not be able to ride your bike even if it’s private property. Every county and city/town has different regulations so be sure to understand them before you start biking your property.
The next best place to ride is your local state trails or a public dirt bike park. Before you go check the rules and requirements as some trails or parks only allow certain kinds of vehicles to be ridden or driven there. If dirt bikes are allowed, common things required for riding off-road dirt bikes are: DNR/registration sticker, a USFS approved spark arrestor, exhaust sound level limit, appropriate riding gear (helmet, boots, goggles, gloves) and a possible membership fee.
Local public motocross tracks (or private tracks with permission) are another great place to ride. If you are still learning how to ride a dirt bike, be sure to avoid tracks or big obstacles. New riders can be a much higher danger risk to others (and themselves), especially on a motocross track.
Can You Ride a Dirt Bike on the Road?
It’s illegal to ride a dirt bike on public roads, city sidewalks or neighborhoods. Dirt bikes are not street legal in stock form because they are made for “off-road use only” and don’t have the equipment needed to legally ride on the road like headlights, taillights, turn signals, insurance, or registration. Riding a dirt bike, motocross or pit bike on the street can result in consequences. You’ll likely get a citation (ticket), your bike may be towed/impounded, and a small fine is likely.
Some dirt bikes can be legally ridden on the road if they are registered and plated. For most states that are going to allow you to make the conversion from off-road only to dual-purpose you’ll need the following: a headlight with low and high beam (as well as an indication of when the high beam is on), a taillight that is actuated by the front brake lever and the rear brake pedal, DOT-approved turn signals front and rear, a rearview mirror (or two), and a horn.
A motorcycle license is not needed to ride a dirt bike off-road, however a dual sport dirt bike that is titled and legal for the road can be ridden on the street by an adult with a driver’s license. You will also need a motorcycle license (endorsement) to ride a dual sport. This is similar to getting a standard driver’s license, but on a street legal motorcycle.
We all want to get the most fun out of our dirt bikes, but you should only ride in areas that are legal and safe. If you’re interested in making your dirt bike street legal or have questions give us a call at 435-783-4718 or get in touch.
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