Is a Motorcycle with a Sidecar Ridden or Driven?

The age-old debate of whether a motorcycle with a sidecar is ridden or driven has been raging for decades. The common belief is that as long as you have at least two wheels, you are 'riding,' but when the wheel count hits three, it shifts to 'driving.' However, things get a bit more complicated when you factor in the transmission and attachment type of the sidecar.

California’s Take

In California, a vehicle with 3-4 wheels and a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 1,000 lbs. or less can be legally operated with a standard Class C operator's license, which is essentially a Basic car license. This raises interesting questions when it comes to operating a motorcycle with a sidecar. Interestingly, a person with no prior experience in operating a sidecar offered insights that included comparing it to quadrupeds and even animals, but ultimately decided to stop sharing their thoughts. This makes for an intriguing discussion, as one might expect.

Operator's Perspective

From the operator's perspective, the term 'ridden' seems more appropriate. Similarly, a passenger would be more comfortable with the term 'driven.' However, for a seasoned motorcyclist, whether one is ‘rider’ or ‘driver’ can depend on the specifics of the sidecar.

The New Rule

The distinction can be further simplified by adding a new rule: if the transmission is responsible for powering more than one wheel, then the operator is 'driving.' Conversely, if the sidecar is temporary and has no independent traction, then riding is still the correct term. For instance, a sidecar attached via a PTO (Power Take-Off) from the motorcycle's transmission would be considered 'driving,' whereas a detachable sidecar lacking its own tranmission would be 'riding.'

Complicating the Matter

Adding another layer of complexity, there are cases where the division becomes even clearer. For example, a trike with two front wheels and one rear wheel, where traction is in the rear, might still be considered riding if the operator is sitting on a saddle and manipulating a handlebar and throttle. On the other hand, an ATV with a seat, handlebar, and even safety features like airbags challenges these traditional terms. In such cases, the primary deciding factor could be whether the operator is seated with a steering wheel or if they are sitting on a saddle and holding a handlebar.

Simplifying the Debate

Perhaps the clearest distinction is that if the operator is sitting on a saddle, holding a handlebar, and twisting the throttle, they are indeed 'riding' whatever they are operating. Conversely, if the operator is seated and has a steering wheel, then they are 'driving' regardless of the specific vehicle type.

Ultimately, the debate on whether a motorcycle with a sidecar is driven or ridden can be rather confusing. However, by establishing clear rules and definitions based on the specifics of the sidecar's design and operational characteristics, we can maintain a consistent and understandable framework for classification.

For those who find this topic particularly intriguing, a bit of bourbon might help clear the confusion.