If you ride a motorcycle in New York City, it’s easy to get confused about what rules apply to you. Are you treated like a car, a bicycle, or something in between?
The truth is, motorcycles follow most of the same rules as cars, but there are a few key differences every NYC rider needs to know to avoid tickets, towing, or worse.
Traffic Laws: Yes, Motorcycles Are Treated Like Cars
In NYC, motorcycles are considered motor vehicles. That means riders must follow the same traffic laws as car drivers.
You must:
- Obey all traffic signals and signs
- Stop at red lights and stop signs
- Yield to pedestrians
- Use turn signals
- Stay within marked lanes
- Follow posted speed limits
Important: Lane splitting (riding between lanes of traffic) is illegal in New York State, even if traffic is stopped.
Parking Rules: Same Laws, Higher Risk
Motorcycles must follow all the same parking rules as cars, but enforcement is often stricter because bikes are easier to tow and harder to notice.
Motorcycles must:
- Pay at metered parking spots
- Obey alternate side parking rules
- Avoid fire hydrants, driveways, loading zones, and bus stops
- Never park on the sidewalk, even partially
Even if your bike fits in a tight space, that doesn’t make it legal. Always look for clear signage before parking, and never assume you’re safe just because you’re on two wheels.
What’s Different About Motorcycle Rules?
Here’s a quick breakdown of where the rules change for motorcycles compared to cars:
| Rule or Situation | Motorcycle | Car |
|---|---|---|
| Lane splitting | Not allowed | Not applicable |
| Sidewalk parking | Illegal | Illegal |
| Shared parking with others | Allowed but risky | Not allowed |
| Easier to be moved by others | Yes | No |
| Disc locks and wheel chocks | Recommended | Not used |
Common Mistakes NYC Motorcycle Riders Make
Many riders get towed or ticketed for things they didn’t even realize were violations. Watch out for these common errors:
- Parking on or near sidewalks
- Not paying for metered spots (you still have to pay, even for short stays)
- Leaving no proof of payment — always keep a photo of your receipt
- Blocking access to driveways or hydrants without realizing it
- Parking overnight in high-enforcement zones
Tips to Avoid Motorcycle Tickets and Towing in NYC
- Take a photo every time you park, including signage and meter receipts
- Avoid leaving your bike overnight in busy areas like Manhattan or Downtown Brooklyn
- Use locks or alarms to prevent your bike from being moved
- Double-check signs and curb markings, even in legal-looking spaces
- Keep proof of insurance and registration on you in case you’re stopped
What to Do If Your Motorcycle Gets Towed
Think your bike was stolen? It might just be at the impound lot.
Steps to take:
- Call 311 or use the NYC Towed Vehicle Lookup Tool
- Enter your plate number and state
- If it was towed, the site will tell you where your motorcycle is and why
- Pay any outstanding tickets and towing/storage fees
- Bring valid ID, insurance, and registration to retrieve your bike
Need Help Moving Your Motorcycle in NYC?
If your motorcycle breaks down, gets towed, or you just need help moving it across the city, MAD Transpo NYC is here for you.
We specialize in fast, affordable, and secure motorcycle towing throughout all five boroughs.
Call now: 929-265-0526
Request a quote here
Avoid damage, stress, and delays. Get your motorcycle where it needs to go the right way.