I live in Upstate NY (Binghamton) and I ride all the time on the stateland across the road/highway from my house. There are trails everywhere there (worn down enough to tell that the paths have been used for a long time and are still used), I see people on quads and dirtbikes there all the time, and there are no "Posted" signs except near the telephone poles that run down the mountain, so I stay away from that area. So my question is, is it legal to ride there? I mean, its not a persons private property. Its perfect for me, I ride about 10 houses down, and go thru an unused tunnel under the highway and Im in open land and hills. So any help would be appreciated. Also, any others from my area, where do YOU ride?

 

Well, knowing this state, it probably isn't "legal" to ride there. Of course, there are usually places on state land where the police look the other way as long as they don't get any complaints and people are acting in an acceptable, safe manner. Protect yourself by having your quad registered and insured. If you get stopped while there, you should get at worst a warning. I have yet to meet a cop that wasn't cool with me, regardles of why I was pulled over. Of course, I am always respectful and have my paperwork in order, that kind of thing goes a long way.

 

I mean, its not a persons private property.



How do you know it's not someone's property? Just because other people ride there doesn't mean it's ok. Get permission or don't ride there.

NYS has only one legal trail riding area in Tug Hill in Lewis County. Don't know how far that is from Binghamtonton. Been there a few times and always found the ride worthwhile.

 

Strictly, it's probably not "legal". And it may be someone's land.

This is one of those grey area things. I would say that if it's a rural area you are probably Ok regardless of who owns it. Just follow Scooter's advice.

Also don't show up there with a bunch of people, and don't post the spot on the internet. We all have our little spots and we get to keep them by being smart.

 

Thanks for all the replies.......I guess Ill just keep riding there till Im told not too.