Today Gov. Christine Gregoire signed into law Senate Bill 5800, a measure introduced by Sen. Curtis King, R-Yakima, to authorize the use of modified off-road motorcycles on public roads.
“My bill will allow outdoor recreationalists to use their motorcycles to get from one place to another, such as from a campsite to town and back, or from trail to trail,” King said. “I’m pleased that this measure will allow off-road motorcycle users more flexibility to enjoy their pastime without worrying about breaking the law in the process.”
State law currently does not allow off-road motorcycles to be converted for street use. King’s bill will establish safety and licensing standards, and allow a person to operate an off-road motorcycle on a public road or highway if the person complies with these requirements:
- file a motorcycle use declaration with the state Department of Licensing;
- obtain a current off-road vehicle registration or temporary use permit;
- obtain a valid driver’s license and motorcycle endorsement; and
- install certain vehicle components if they are not already installed.
“The economies of our counties depend on ease of transportation,” King said. “This is a fair and equitable approach to allowing the use of these modified vehicles and solves an issue that has a big impact on our citizens.”