State by State
Motorcycle Laws
In This Article
The Call of the Road
Traveling cross-country on a motorcycle is an exciting adventure.
It’s also important to know certain key things before taking the plunge.
Here’s where we can help.
Riding a motorcycle is exhilarating. It’s no wonder that people want to take it one step further and tackle a long-distance trip. You’re never bored while on a motorcycle and it’s more economical than traveling in a car.
Choosing your bike is a very personal choice and is the first step you need to take. But once you’ve got that down, then what?
Some Tips Before Your Trip
So – You’ve bought a motorcycle, know how to ride it, and now you want to take it across state lines. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and legal.
Know your state laws. Each state has varying laws regarding different aspects of your ride. Helmet requirements, traffic laws, and sound restrictions to name a few. We’ll go over these shortly.
Plan your trip long in advance. Though you may want to simply ride where the wind takes you, it’s important to be prepared for different scenarios such as weather changes or mechanical issues. Take your time with this.
Check your insurance & registration. Make sure your insurance is up to date and you have the appropriate coverage. You don’t want to be stuck in a bind where something isn’t covered.
Prepare your bike. Get an oil change and check your tires for signs of wear. Invest in a luggage rack if your trip warrants it.
What to bring
- Clothes for different weather such as a weatherproof suit
- Proof of insurance, roadside assistance
- License or learners permit
- Safety gear: Helmet, goggles, boots, gloves.
- Emergency kit: Tire patch kit, high-viz emergency markers
Routes to consider
- Pacific Coast Highway: 656 miles along the coast of California
- Great River Road: 2,069 miles following the Mississippi river
- Atlantic Coast: 2,370 miles spanning from Maine to Key West, Florida
- Historic Route 66: 2,448 miles spanning from Chicago to L.A.
Consider wearing a helmet and eye protection even in states where it’s not required.
Helmet Laws by State
20 & younger
Arkansas
Florida §
Kentucky †
Michigan *†§
Pennsylvania †§
Rhode Island *†
South Carolina
Texas *§
Utah
17 & younger
Alaska *†
Arizona
Colorado
Hawaii
Idaho
Indiana
Kansas
Maine *†
Minnesota †
Montana
New Mexico
North Dakota *
Ohio *†
Oklahoma
South Dakota
Wisconsin †
Wyoming
Other Restrictions
Delaware – 18 and younger
Missouri †§ – 25 and younger
*= Passengers must wear a helmet
†=Learners permit riders or those in early years of riding must wear a helmet
§=May require additional insurance or special training
Lane Splitting Laws by State
What is Lane Splitting?
Lane splitting is the act of driving between rows of slow or stagnant traffic going in the same direction. Though this practice occurs regularly throughout Europe and Asia, it’s rarely permissible in the U.S. with only a few exceptions. For example, riders in California should not lane split faster than 10mph above the speed of surrounding traffic. Similarly, lane filtering means the rider can sneak between rows of stopped or slow-moving vehicles, usually done at a stop light, in order to take off quicker than if they were to have remained behind other vehicles.
Noise Laws by State
The hum and braaap of your bike may be a pleasing sound to you, and may even put you in a nice meditative state if that’s what you enjoy. Often, motorcycle mufflers are modified to change the desired sound output. When traveling, it’s important to know whether or not this is legal where you’re going.
So- now you know some ways to prepare for your next two-wheeled adventure. Please note that laws are subject to change, and you should always check government sources for updated regulations prior to any trip. Always remember: Have fun, and keep the rubber side down.
