Why bother, no one else follows the rules. With crime rampant in America you need a getaway bike. A get away from it all bike!
But those of us who follow the law and try to retain a certain amount of decorum and respect for others prefer to ride their dirt bikes in legal areas. Which lends the question "Where can I ride my dirt bike?"
Sure, the National level track a few hours from your house works or even the local MX park but A) what if you don't want to ride hours just to ride for a few, B) You want to try a new track, or C) what if you don't rip tracks. Instead, you prefer the sublime nature of nature. Hit the trails! But where?
Here to help, of course, if you want to know where to ride dirt bikes near me, I mean you. Not me, you! So how do you find the best place in your area to ride legally? We've got the deets, so read on and find out how we do it.
First things first, each state varies so wherever you reside check your local laws. Wheeling down the freeway will get you chased by cops. So keep it real and ride where dirt bikes ride. Unless of course you have a street legal dirt bike, then ride, ride, ride wherever you may roam. Know before you go so check out the following when planning a day on the trails or track:
1. Department of Natural Resources (DNR): Most states have a website with details about off-road vehicle (ORV) use.
2. Local Off-Road Clubs: These clubs often have up-to-date information on local regulations and can provide guidance on where to ride legally. Give them a call! These clubs cater to dirt bikes and ATVs and often, despite what some say, help keep our trails green and usable by ICE machines.
3. RiderPlanet USA: You may have heard of this one. A great tool that offers a comprehensive list of ATV and dirt bike trails and Motocross tracks sorted by state. Click on your state on the map and get directed to a list of all the trails and MX parks in the state.
4. Backcountry Discovery Routes: This non-profit continues to map out off-road trails state-by-state and might have a detailed map for your area.
5. State and National Park Websites: Some parks have specific areas designated for off-road riding. These sites will provide maps, rules, and the required permits or fees.
Places to Ride Dirt Bikes
Now you may ask, where should I ride? You might find, depending on your state, a plethora of trails and Motocross tracks to visit. Daunting for some, others simply pick one and go. So sure, why not, but if you want to spend less time trying things out and more time enjoying, connect with a local riding community similar in nature to the local off-road clubs mentioned before.
If you still use Facebook, you can find plenty of local riding communities there to give you perspective on this or that trail plus advice on what to do and what not to do. Spark arrestor anyone? Speaking of which, most public lands that allow dirt bikes require a spark arrestor or face a BIG fine.
Where did you buy your dirt bike? Give them a call or head back in person. Those who sell dirt bikes know dirt bikes and likely know where to ride dirt bikes. Plus, those shops might have bulletin boards with information on local events and meet-ups.
Apps and GPS Devices
If social media and/or government lockdowns turned you into a recluse, let technology be your best friend at least when searching for new riding areas.
1. onX Offroad: Designed for off-roaders, OnX shows trails and land ownership details, helping you avoid trespassing on private property and trigger happy landowners.
2. GPS devices: Devices designed for off-road use helps you track your routes and discover new ones shared by other users.
Local Dirt Bike Riding Events and Competitions
Many areas host racing events and competitions, which provide a structured and legal environment for riding. Most Motocross tracks even National level gems open to the public and sanctioned cross country or hare scrambles get you riding longer offering more bang for your entry fee buck.
When riding track or trails remember to wear the appropriate riding gear (helmet, goggles, gloves, boots at a minimum) and bring all the necessary supplies like a tire repair kit, water, a map or GPS device when trail riding, and a first aid kit.
When trail riding, stay on marked trails and don't leave trash behind. Many special interest groups would love to get you banned and the rest of us banned forever so don't give them any ammo to shoot down your love of riding in the great outdoors.
