Ask The Editors: Why Are Some Trails Restricted by Engine Size?
Dear ATVC:
Only after I showed up to my favorite local trail system with my new 300cc Honda Fourtrax did I find out that the trail was limited to 250cc models and under.
What’s worse is my “300” is actually only a 282cc. Is there any science that proves that those extra 32cc’s make any sort of difference as far as damaging a trail goes?
Sadly there is no such science and in fact quite the opposite: What tests have been performed have proven that engine size on ATVs has nearly nothing to do with resulting trail damage, yet this is the standard many Natural Resources Departments limit when trying to reduce trail damage.
Their logic behind this probably started with the reasoning that smaller models are likely ridden by younger riders who are less likely to tear things up. The reality of course is that creating a displacement cut off does little more than discriminate certain ATV models rather than the rider (and degree of trail responsibility) himself.
As anyone who has ridden can attest, there are individuals out there on minis who can cause plenty of damage and 1000cc monsters that plod along with the utmost respect for the trail. Is this system fair? Absolutely not and a testament to the importance of ATV trail advocacy groups who fight to keep land open for us all to enjoy.
