Riding in Colorado: What You Need to Know
Motorcycle drivers must obey all the same traffic laws as othermotor vehicles on the roadways. Because those laws vary from state tostate, make sure you're aware of Colorado laws so you can ride safelyand legally. The minimum safety standards for motorcycles in Coloradoinclude the following:
Protective Gear
Helmets: Although helmets are proven to save lives, ridersage 18 and over are not required to wear helmets in Colorado. However,if the motorcycle operator or passengers are under age 18, they must wear DOT-approvedhelmets.
In 2006, 65% of fatally injured motorcycle riders were not wearing ahelmet in states without all-rider helmet laws, compared with only 13%in states with all-rider helmet laws. (NHTSA, 2007)
EyeProtection: In Colorado, some form of eye protection is legallyrequired for all riders-drivers and passengers. The best eye protectioncomes from a visor on a helmet. Goggles or eyeglasses with lenses madefrom safety glass or plastic are also acceptable. Awindshield is notconsidered adequate eye protection.
Passengers
Footrests: Bikes must be equipped with footrests forpassengers; passengers must utilize them.
Riding position: Passengers must ride on the seat behind thedriver or to the side (i.e. side car), not in front of driver.
Traffic Laws
Passing or Overtaking: Passing or overtaking a vehicle in thesame lane is Illegal in Colorado; no lane sharing or splitting withcars. However, motorcycles can share a lane or "co-ride" with one othermotorcycle.
Clinging: As a rider, you cannot attach your motorcycle toanother vehicle, i.e. grab onto another motorcycle or vehicle (i.e.towing).
For basic skills tips and Colorado motorcycle licensing information,click on this link to take you to the Colorado Department ofRevenue Motor Vehicle Division's motorcycle handbook.
