According to 1999 figures there were 512,386 licensed motorcycle operators in New York State.  There were 190,745 motorcycles registered.  New York ranks sixth in the nation in the number of licensed motorcyclists.

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation's "Motorcycle RiderCourse®: Riding and Street Skills" (MRC:RSS) teaches basic riding skills, which are then applied to street riding situations using defensive riding strategies. To locate the nearest MRC:RSS training site, view  the Motorcycle Association of New York State, Inc. web site or call them at 1-888-4NY-RIDE (1-888-469-7433) or (212) 579-5543.

Yes. Section 381 of the Vehicle and Traffic Law requires any person operating or riding a motorcycle to wear a helmet. The helmet must be a type approved by the commissioner consistent with the requirements specified by section 571.218 of the federal motor vehicle safety standards.

There are three classes of limited use motorcycles (mopeds) based on maximum performance speeds. Class A mopeds have a top speed ranging from over 30 to 40 mph. Class B ranges from over 20 to 30 mph. Class C mopeds have a top speed of 20 mph or less. Helmet and eye protection are required when operating a Class A and B motorcycle. It is recommended that helmet and eye protection be worn when operating a Class C motorcycle.

There is no age restriction for passengers on motorcycles in New York State.  According to Section 1251 of NYS Vehicle and Traffic Law, for anyone to ride as a passenger the motorcycle must be designed to carry more than one person, in which event a passenger may ride upon the permanent and regular seat.  "A person shall ride upon a motorcycle while sitting astride the seat, facing forward, with one leg on each side of the motorcycle, unless said person is seated in a sidecar affixed to said motorcycle."  Additionally, "No operator shall carry any person, nor shall any person ride, in a position that will interfere with the operation or control of the motorcycle or the view of the operator."  The passenger must also wear a DOT-approved motorcycle helmet.

This information is available at the New York State Department of Motor Vehicle Internet Office Forms Page.  The form MV-529B, Equipment Required for Motorcycles (Including Limited Use Motorcycles), is available in pdf format.  Print version, Adobe Acrobat® Reader is required.

ATV operator training is available through the ATV Safety Institute. Anyone looking for ATV training should call 1-800-887-ATVs (1-800-887-2887).