Riding a powerful two-wheeled vehicle is a unique experience, it provides transportation and allows one to feel the environment while doing so, and it is fun. It responds to the operator like neither a bicycle or automobile can, providing a near thrill-ride like sensation. Since it is used on highways and streets, however, it requires a Colorado motorcycle license is mandatory for legal operation.

Lighter vehicles are also more attractive with the price of gas soaring as they are very fuel efficient. It would be very environmentally sound if we had all the individuals who commute to work riding cycles instead of driving cars. This would decrease fuel use as well as reduce the carbon footprint of cities, and traffic might flow more smoothly.

For skilled riders, the maneuverability and acceleration make riding a true joy, even when the traffic is somewhat less than ideal, the ride can be pleasant. But there is a trade-off between such maneuverability and the skills required for control. Far more than any other vehicle, the rider must maintain balance and awareness at all times.

It is also a fact that if one is involved in a collision of any kind, the rider is far more vulnerable than the operator of a car, truck or van. There are no air bags or seat belts, only the personal protective gear the rider chooses on their own. When a collision or other mishap occurs, the smaller size does nothing to mediate the resulting impact on traffic.

One of the differences between the traditional family car and the motorbike is who may operate them. In Colorado, one must be fifteen years old to obtain a learner permit to operate an automobile with the supervision of an adult, and there are three types. One must have a license to drive an automobile to get a motorcycle endorsement, as separate stand alone motorbike licenses are not issued.

Most non-riders have the notion that riding a motorbike is very similar to riding a bicycle, only with greater speed and no pedaling. In reality, the skill is far different, although the balance needed is the same. Turning on a bicycle is accomplished by moving the front wheel left or right, with the motorized version, leaning the machine is necessary to turn, and the vehicle is much heavier.

Safe operation requires a much more defensive state of mind and spatial awareness on the road. Because they are smaller, they are harder to see than other cars, especially when other drivers do not anticipate them. Operators do not help when they drive dangerously, although one controversial issue is lane-splitting, which is legal in California but not in Colorado.

There are several reasons the state requires a Colorado motorcycle license. It ensures all vehicle operators know the laws and have demonstrated operating competence, and it provides a source of revenue that helps keep the roads in shape. For the operator, going through the steps to learn how to ride a motorbike in accordance with the law increases safety and can save a lot of money in fines.