It has been an on-again, off-again type of winter here in New York State. The heavy snow we saw off Lake Erie and Lake Ontario has largely melted, and rain showers have taken the place of lake-effect snowstorms. As snow piles shrink and puddles grow, snowmobile season has taken a bit of a pause.

But for those who love motorized outdoor recreation, what options are still available in New York State? And if you have kids, what are their options when it comes to winter motorsports?

A Five-Year-Old’s Dirt Bike Dream

This past Christmas, our youngest son, who is five years old, asked Santa Claus for a dirt bike. That definitely caught us by surprise. While Santa didn’t quite fulfill that request, he did bring a brand-new bike to ride when the weather improves and roads are clear.

Gus was thrilled to find the bike under the tree and is already looking forward to riding around the neighborhood. Still, like many kids his age, he dreams of something with a little more power—cruising trails, hitting small jumps, and riding dirt bike courses.

What Does New York State Law Say About Kids and Motorized Vehicles?

That got me wondering what New York State law says about kids riding dirt bikes or motorcycles. We do have a small four-wheeler that the kids use in our backyard. It’s nothing powerful, but it’s a lot of fun and a great way to introduce them to motorsports.

As someone who enjoys riding four-wheelers and snowmobiles, sharing that excitement with my kids is just as fun as riding myself.

Snowmobile Laws for Kids in New York State

New York State has very specific laws when it comes to snowmobiling for children. I’ve written in the past about how close an adult must be to a child while they are operating a snowmobile, and I was surprised by just how detailed the regulations are.

There are also snowmobile safety courses designed specifically for kids, which must be completed before they are allowed to ride on trails by themselves. These rules are in place to keep young riders safe, especially on public trail systems.

Dirt Bikes, ATVs, and Age Restrictions

When it comes to dirt bikes and motorcycles, New York State law generally categorizes dirt bikes under ATV or off-road vehicle regulations through the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.

“An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is any self-propelled vehicle with two or more wheels that is manufactured for sale to be used primarily off-highway or in off-road competitions, and that is no wider than 70 inches and weighs no more than 1,000 pounds”.

Under state law, an ATV is defined as a vehicle with two or more wheels designed for off-road use. A driver’s license is not required to operate an ATV or dirt bike, but there are important restrictions for riders under the age of 16.

Parents should be aware that allowing children to operate these vehicles improperly can lead to legal issues.

Letting Other Kids Ride Your ATV or Dirt Bike

If you own dirt bikes, four-wheelers, or snowmobiles for your children, it’s also important to understand the law regarding letting other kids ride them. New York State law states that you may not knowingly permit anyone under the age of 16 to operate an ATV in violation of state or local regulations.

“A parent or guardian may not knowingly permit or authorize a child under age 16 to operate an ATV in violation of state or local laws. An ATV owner, or another person in possession of an ATV, may not knowingly permit or authorize any person under age 16 to operate an ATV in violation of any state or local law”.

In other words, if a child is too young or not legally permitted to ride, the responsibility falls on the adult who allows it.

Trail Etiquette as Winter Conditions Change

As snow continues to melt, many riders are itching to get back on their four-wheelers or side-by-sides. Keep in mind that snowmobile clubs across New York State work tirelessly to maintain trail systems.

Read More: This Snowmobile Part is Banned in New York State

Riding on muddy or sloppy trails can cause significant damage. Unless you are riding on your own property, be sure to follow posted trail rules
and verify which trails allow ATV traffic and which are strictly for snowmobiles.

Hoping for a True New York Winter

We’re all hoping the weather shifts back to a more traditional winter pattern. Snowmobile season is short in New York State, only a couple of months, and every ride counts.

Make sure your snowmobile is properly registered and insured, and keep an eye on conditions. With the Great Lakes still wide open, there’s a strong chance more lake-effect snow could be on the way, potentially bringing life back to the snowmobile trail system.

Here���s hoping for cold temperatures, fresh snow, and a great rest of the season.

Snow Removal Etiquette To Remember In New York State

Gallery Credit: Brett Alan