The State of Colorado views motorcycles in the same way it views other motor vehicles. Thus the titling and registration processes are the same, with one key exception: motorcycles are exempt from emissions testing.

Also, considering license fees are based weight and ownership taxes based on purchase price, the renewal rates will not be as high. Of course, some bikes do cost as much as small SUVs these days.

Dirt Bike Registration

Dirt bikes (or off-road bikes), on the other hand, are not considered motor vehicles by the state, but still need to be registered with Colorado Parks and Recreation. You can download and print the registration application, complete it, and mail it with the appropriate fee ($25.25) to:

• Colorado State Parks

• Registration Unit

• 13787 South Highway 85

• Littleton, CO 80125

You can also fill out an application in person at this address. It takes about two to four weeks to receive the Colorado Registration Certificate.

Making it Legal

Now for the tricky part: You can transform a dirt bike into a road-legal motorcycle recognized by the state of Colorado as a motor vehicle. With a bit of tinkering and upgrading (generally new tires, a horn, a new muffler, and proper lighting) the bike can be titled and put into the periodic registration process as a regular motor vehicle.

Of course, you will need to fill out a couple of forms. First is the Certificate of Equipment Compliance, which lists all the equipment needed for the dirt bike to become street legal. The second required form is the Verification of Vehicle Identification Number.

Along with these two forms, you will need proof of ownership for titling, which can entail a manufacturer's statement of origin (MSO), bill of sale, or dealer invoice.

For more motorcycle-related information, check out Motorcycles, Motorcycle License, and Motorcycle Manual on this site.

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