With the return of warmer temperatures and better weather, Mopeds, scooters and motor driven cycles will be sharing our roadways. Marshall County Prosecuting Attorney Nelson Chipman emphasized the new rules for this form of transportation. Effective January 1, the Indiana Legislature has altered the requirements for motorized, two-wheeled conveyances. What might have been termed a “motorized bicycle” or “motor scooter” under Indiana’s old laws has now become a “motor driven cycle.” With the redefinition also come changes in Bureau of Motor Vehicle requirements.
There are two categories of motor driven cycles: Class A and Class B. If you own what was previously defined as a “motorized bicycle,” you likely now own a “Class B motor driven cycle.” If the cylinder capacity is above 50 cubic centimeters (cc’s), it is a Class A motor driven cycle; if the cylinder capacity is 50 cc’s or lower, it is a Class B motor driven cycle.
Both types must be plated and registered with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, and both must be operated as near the right-hand edge of the roadway as possible, unless passing or preparing to turn left. However, because Class A cycles may be driven at speeds greater than 35 mph, they must be insured, and operators must possess a valid Indiana driver’s license with either a motorcycle endorsement, an endorsement with a motor driven cycle Class A restriction, or a valid motorcycle learner’s permit. Class B cycles, which are not permitted to be operated at a speed greater than 35 mph, do not require insurance or a valid driver’s license. Operators of Class B cycles must be 15 years of age or older and have a valid Indiana driver’s license or learner’s permit or, in the alternative, a current Indiana ID card with a special motor driven cycle endorsement.
Failure to comply with the requirements for operating a Class B cycle, such as operating without a motor driven cycle endorsement or operating at a speed greater than 35 mph, would subject operators to possible charges and conviction for driving while suspended or operating a motor vehicle while adjudged a habitual traffic violator. Additionally, to aid in public safety, all persons under age 18 must wear a helmet, headlamps must be illuminated at all times, and texting and driving is prohibited. For more information about the changes, visit your local license branch or the BMV website at www.in.gov/bmv. In addition a handy brochure that summarizes these rule changes that can be picked up at the Marshall County Prosecutor’s Office, located in the County Building at 112 W. Jefferson St. in Plymouth. Chipman and his staff are going to make an effort to place the brochures at convenient locations throughout the county, including your local police departments.
