On the road, motorcycles must adhere to special laws enacted by state legislatures for the protection of the motorcycle rider as well as those sharing the roadway with the motorcycle. Ride across the state line between Indiana and Illinois, however, and these laws change.
Motorcycle riders in Illinois face fewer laws than those who ride the roads of Indiana. For example:
Helmet
- Required in Indiana – 17 and younger (including low-power cycles, e.g., Vespas)
- Not required in Illinois
Eye Protection
- Required in Indiana if rider is under 18 years old
- Not required in Illinois if the bike has a windscreen
Helmet Speakers
- Not regulated in Indiana
- Must be for communication only in Illinois
Handlebar Height
- Maximum of 15 inches above the seat in Indiana
- Grips must be below the rider’s shoulder height in Illinois
Turn Signals
- In Indiana, any motorcycle manufactured in 1956 or thereafter must have turn signals
- Not required in Illinois
