Headline status
Conversion path only
Off-highway motorcycle (OHM)
Ohio classifies a Sur-Ron-class bike as an off-highway motorcycle. To ride public lands or trails it must be registered ($39.25, 3-year) with an Ohio title; no registration is needed on your own private property. Off-road registration doesn't make it street-legal — road use requires a full conversion (DOT lighting, signals, mirrors, insurance). Some local jurisdictions allow OHVs on roads posted 35 mph or less.
Key points
- Classified as an off-highway motorcycle (OHM)
- Off-road registration ($39.25 / 3 yr) required for public lands; not on private property
- Off-road registration ≠ street legal — conversion required for road use
- Some localities permit OHVs on ≤35 mph roads; shared-use/bike trails prohibited
Where you can ride
Allowed
- Private property (no registration needed)
- Public lands/trails that allow off-highway motorcycles (registration required)
- Local roads posted 35 mph or less where the jurisdiction permits OHVs
Prohibited
- Shared-use, bike, and scenic trails (e.g., the Little Miami Scenic Trail)
- Public roads unless converted + on-road registered, or a locally-approved ≤35 mph OHV road
Registration
RequiredFor public-land or trail riding, an off-highway motorcycle must be registered ($39.25, valid 3 years) with an Ohio Certificate of Title. No registration is required to ride on your own private property.
Helmet
A helmet is strongly recommended, and required for younger operators.
License
Off-road registration does NOT make it street-legal — road use requires a full conversion (DOT lighting, signals, mirrors, insurance) and on-road registration.
Penalty risk
Riding on non-motorized trails or unapproved public roads without proper registration is illegal.
Sources
Last verified: 2026-07-04