OHV CLASSIFICATIONS

As simple as this seems it is really not.  The issue is that most all of our riding is on some sort of public land.  The Winom-Frazier Complex is on US Forest Service land, specifically in the Umatilla and Wallowa-Whitman National Forests, Federal Land.  This land is located within the State of Oregon.  The Forest Service requires a current OHV Permit to ride on this Federal Land.  The Permit is issued by the State utilizing the states rules, including that of classification.

Class III OHV’s are universally recognized as a motorcycle, so motorcycles are not confusing.

This issue becomes Class I (ATV’s) and the new Oregon Class IV (UTV’s).  Oregon state created these classifications and on Oregon State park land these are utilized.  Therefore on Oregon State parks controlled or jointly controlled with the Forest Service (see COHVOPS), Class IV (UTV’s) are not allowed on Class I trails unless specificly designated no matter what the width of the UTV.

On Federal Land, language on Forest Service publications allow for the use of 50″ or less machines on any trail designated as for Class I use, therefore allow for the use of 50″ Trail Ready UTV’s on Federal Class I trails, such as those within the Winom-Frazier Complex and the Desolation Trail Complex.  Any wider width than 50″ is subject to fines for its use.  Motorized OHV’s of any type are allowed only on roads designated in the Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM) established by the Forest Service District.

Oregon State OHV Classifications Basics

CLASS I (ATV’s and 3 Wheelers)

  • For vehicles 50 inches wide or less

  • Dry weight of 1,200 pounds or less

  • Uses handlebars for steering;

  • Has a seat designed to be straddled for the operator

  • Travels on three or more pneumatic tires that are six inches or more in width and has wheels with a rim diameter 14″ or less.

  • Meet the safety equipment standards for off road vehicles.

CLASS II (4×4’s and Jeeps that are larger than a CLASS I and NOT a CLASS IV)

CLASS III (Motorcycles)

CLASS IV (UTV’s, NEW as of 1/1/2012)

  • Is 80 inches wide or less at its widest point.

  • Has a dry weight of 2,500 pounds or less

  • Has nonstraddle seating

  • Has a steering wheel for steering control

  • Travels on four or more pneumatic tires that are six inches or more in width and has wheels with a rim diameter 14″ or less.