It is no secret that off-road motorcycles and ATVs are a target of many legislators and overly enthusiastic environmentalists. Some of the attacks are completely unwarranted and shortsighted. However, we off-road enthusiast can be our own worst enemies at times. A bit of courtesy, common sense, and social responsibility will go a long to protecting our rights to recreational off-road access. Here are some quick reminders on how to “tread lightly”:
Bike Setup:
The way we modify and maintain our bikes can have a major impact on the environment in which we ride. First and foremost, we must run a Forest Service approved spark arrestor. There is no excuse for risking a potential wildfire with an open exhaust. While we are on the subject of exhausts - muffle it. I love the sound of a motorcycle as much as any gear-head. However, that camper, hiker, or hunter may not share our enthusiasm.
Another vital part of off-road setup and maintenance is making sure our fluids stay where they belong. Gas, oil, and coolant are big environmental concerns. A leaking dirt-bike is a bad thing in the woods.
Finally, a poorly tuned bike is a polluter. Get that carburetor or computer fuel map dialed in. A smokey, sooty exhaust is staining more than your rear fender.
Respect for the Land:
If we want trails to stay open, we need to stay on them. Irresponsible cutting of new trails is a sure way to attract negative attention from forest or park officials. This is especially true in fragile environments such as wetlands, deserts and mountain tundra.
Here are a few more tips for trail responsibility:
Travel only in areas that are clearly open to your type of recreation.
Stay on routes and trails designated for your type of off-road travel.
Cross streams only at points where the road or trail intersects the stream.
Avoid any fragile terrain.
Understand and practice proper techniques related to negotiating terrain (like avoiding excessive wheel spin).
Avoid restricted areas and private property.
Avoid damaging wet trails.
Respect for Others:
Believe or not, we are not the only open land enthusiasts. Hikers, equestrians, climbers, campers, anglers, and hunters are all fond of the outdoors. We need to be hyper-vigilant in respecting their rights if we expect them to care about ours. In short, yield the right away, give space, lower the exhaust note, and generally be a good forest neighbor.
With a little common courtesy, we can go a log way to preserving our access to the great outdoors. Conversely, the opposite is also true.
