Powersports

Bruce Kennedy, age 20 of North Berwick, died in an ATV crash in Piscataquis County near Wadleigh Pond on August 15th. Kennedy lost control while negotiating a curve; speed was a factor and he was not wearing a helmet. The Maine Warden Service, LifeFlight, Brownville Fire Department, Milo Fire Department, Piscataquis Sheriff's Office, and Maine Forest Service responded.

The Maine Warden Service is investigating a fatal ATV crash in Fort Fairfield involving two 15-year-olds in a 2026 CF Moto Z Force side-by-side. The passenger died at the scene while the driver sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Neither occupant was wearing helmets or seatbelts.

Michigan residents and visitors can ride 4,000 miles of off-road vehicle trails without an ORV license or trail permit during Free ORV Weekend on August 15-16. Holly Oaks ORV Park in Oakland County will waive its entrance fee, and all ORV laws and regulations remain in effect during the event.

Michigan residents and visitors can ride 4,000 miles of ORV trails, routes, and six scramble areas without a license or permit on Aug. 15-16. The entrance fee at Holly Oaks ORV Park will be waived for the weekend, though other ORV rules and Recreation Passport requirements still apply.

Michigan's DNR provides guidance on safe e-biking across its managed trails. Class 1 e-bikes are allowed on most DNR trails, Class 2 requires a permit for mobility use only, and Class 3 e-bikes are prohibited. Riders should know their e-bike's class, find appropriate trails among Michigan's 2,000 miles of bike-friendly paths, and follow trail etiquette.

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA announces its 2027 ATV lineup featuring updated color options across the YFZ450R, Raptor 700, Grizzly, and Kodiak models. The full-size ATVs are assembled at Yamaha's manufacturing facility in Newnan, Georgia, offering sport, recreational, and utility options for various off-road applications.

Michigan DNR urges off-road vehicle operators to "Ride Right" following 2025 data showing over 700 crashes, 32 fatalities, and 500+ injuries. Acting Cpl. Sidney LaLonde emphasizes safe speeds, sobriety, helmets, and proper child supervision to prevent accidents caused by excessive speed and careless operation.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced a snowmobile trail permit fee increase from $52 to $65, effective this year, following a statutory five-year Consumer Price Index adjustment. The increase accounts for a 25.1% rise over the previous cycle and helps sustain the state's 6,300-plus miles of trails maintained by 67 volunteer clubs.

Maine Game Wardens are investigating a fatal ATV crash in Vassalboro on May 8th. Cobey Schmidt, 52, was operating a side-by-side ATV in his yard when his left front tire struck a rock, causing him to partially eject and be rolled over by the vehicle. Speed is suspected to be a factor in the crash.

Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating a fatal off-road vehicle accident in Madison County where a 13-year-old passenger was ejected and killed. The 10-year-old operator and passenger were not wearing helmets or protective equipment. Conservation Officers urge all ORV operators to follow safety recommendations and use proper safety equipment.

Michigan's DNR has updated state forest road maps showing 11,841 miles of ORV-accessible roads across the Upper Peninsula, Northern Lower Peninsula, and Southern Lower Peninsula. Maps are available in interactive online format and printable PDFs, with Amy Livermore noting ongoing cleanup efforts from last year's ice storm damage.

As Michigan's 2026-27 ORV season begins April 1, riders heading to Silver Lake State Park's 450-acre ORV Scramble Area in Mears should prioritize safety on the unique dune terrain. Key tips include maintaining situational awareness, operating within vehicle capabilities, staying visible, and avoiding fatigue-related incidents.

Michigan DNR conservation officers Cpl. Cole VanOosten, Justin Vinson, Alex French, and Sgt. Calvin Smith assisted Luce County Sheriff's deputies Tim Maskus and Mike Peters in rescuing a 55-year-old Rexton man stranded near Snowmobile Trail No. 8UP during a severe blizzard with 70-mph wind gusts on March 16.

Michigan's 2026-27 ORV season begins April 1. Purchase your license and trail permit to access 4,000 miles of state-designated ORV trails, scramble areas, and eligible roads. Licenses are valid for one year and fees support trail expansion and infrastructure improvements.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officers patrolled over 425 miles of snowmobile trails during the 57th annual International-500 snowmobile race on February 7 in Sault Ste. Marie. Officers contacted over 750 snowmobilers, issuing 44 citations and 97 verbal warnings while promoting the DNR's Ride Right safety campaign. No major incidents were reported during the enhanced patrols.

Michigan's Department of Natural Resources urges riders to prioritize safety during the Presidents Day weekend, promoting its Ride Right campaign. With nine snowmobile fatalities reported as of February 9, the DNR emphasizes operating at safe speeds, wearing helmets, and checking ice conditions before riding.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources Parks and Recreation Division is warning snowmobilers about a water hazard on Trail No. UP8 in Baraga County, where a stream overflowed overnight near Michigamme. Hazard cones mark the affected area, and officials advise proceeding with caution and staying to the high side of the trail.

Michigan DNR encourages safe group riding practices for the Presidents Day weekend, emphasizing maintaining safe distances, accommodating inexperienced riders, and yielding to nonmotorized trail users on state-designated snowmobile and off-road vehicle trails.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources reminds snowmobilers and ORV riders to prioritize safety during optimal snow conditions and the Presidents Day weekend. Key safety tips include riding at safe speeds, staying sober, and making complete stops at intersections.

The Michigan DNR has closed a section of Snowmobile Trail UP16 in Iron and Dickinson counties, due to a change in private land access. The closure prevents a community trail connection between Crystal Falls and Sagola.