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With so many states issuing shelter-in-place and stay-at-home orders during the COVID-19 pandemic, many motorcycle enthusiasts are asking the same question: Can you still go for a ride during a stay-at-home order? The answer varies depending on where exactly you are, and we’re going to break down how the states we operate in are currently handling the issue.
In Wisconsin, for example, the statewide Safer-at-Home order is being lifted by a state Supreme Court ruling. However, many cities and counties are still practicing caution and keeping certain restrictions in place for the time being. The short answer means every town in Wisconsin is doing things slightly different, but under the previous order. Outdoor activities (including recreational motorcycle rides) are for the most part entirely acceptable, so long as participants follow the proper social distancing guidelines. It is suggested you check and see what your specific city is allowing and restricting as the state works to reopen to ensure you are following necessary guidelines before you go for a ride.
Illinois is taking a much more unified approach to this pandemic, as they are rolling out all-new restrictions and changes on a statewide basis. As it stands right now, the state has a shelter-in-place order set to go until the end of the month when they will re-evaluate their situation and decide on a new course of action. In their most recent COVID-19 executive order, Illinois is allowing citizens to partake in recreational outdoor activities, provided they abide by social distancing guidelines.
Iowa is currently one of five states to not issue any sort of shelter-in-place or stay-at-home order. Despite putting social distancing orders in place and shutting down nonessential businesses, bars and restaurants, the state refrained from ordering its citizens to stay at home whenever possible. As a result, recreational motorcycle rides are completely acceptable as it is in neighboring Illinois.
Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa all have varying orders in place to ensure the safety of their respective citizens during the COVID-19 pandemic, but none of them has outright banned motorcycle rides. It would be important to note that certain states do have orders in place banning social gatherings of certain sizes at this time. So if you’re currently looking to ride in a group, it’s best to keep any pre- and post-ride meetings relatively small and maintain proper social distancing.
To stay up to date on all motorcycle-related news and content, be sure to check out our Current News for Riders page on hupy.com.
