Motorcycle And Autocycle Definitions

Section 1 of the act removes autocycle from the definition of motorcycle. The definition of motorcycle is changed to add that a motorcycle has handlebars to steer and a seat the rider sits astride. The definition of autocycle is also changed to classify it as a motor vehicle and to clarify that an autocycle may use handlebars to steer. In removing autocycle from the definition of motorcycle, the act makes the following clarifications and changes:

• Section 2 clarifies that the driver of an autocycle need not have a motorcycle endorsement regardless of the autocycle's maximum speed and that all 3-wheel motorcycle drivers need a general or limited motorcycle endorsement;
• Colorado law requires all motorcycle drivers to wear eye protection unless the motorcycle has 3 wheels, has a maximum speed of no more than 25 miles per hour, has a windshield, and has seatbelts. Section 3 clarifies that this exception applies to drivers of autocycles, not motorcycles, fitting that description.
• Colorado law requires a motorcycle driver who is under 18 years of age to wear a helmet unless the motorcycle has 3 wheels, has a maximum speed of no more than 25 miles per hour, has a windshield, and has seatbelts. Section 4 clarifies that this exception applies to autocycles, not motorcycles, fitting that description.
• Colorado law imposes a fee of $4 to register motorcycles for motorcycle operator safety training. Redefining autocycles as not being motorcycles in section 1 means that autocycle owners will not pay the fee.
• Section 5 removes the authorization for 2 autocycles to drive abreast in one lane; and
• Section 8 clarifies that the department of revenue will continue to issue a motorcycle license plate for an autocycle.

Section 33 appropriates $15,976 from the general fund for use by the division of motor vehicles to implement the act.

(Note: This summary applies to this bill as enacted.)