What is Motorbike Trail Riding?
Motorbike trail riding is an exhilarating pursuit that entails navigating motorcycles along unsurfaced roads and tracks accessible to all forms of traffic.
These routes, referred to as green lanes, form part of an extensive network of historic pathways dispersed throughout the UK.
It is a recreational, non-competitive activity distinct from closed circuit racing.
Trail riding provides a distinctive combination of adventure, exploration, and the chance to develop advanced riding techniques and orienteering skills.
Laws on trail riding in the UK
In the United Kingdom, trail riding is regulated by a defined set of laws and guidelines designed to promote safety, protect the environment, and ensure responsible use of public and private land. These regulations outline the rights and responsibilities of riders, specify permissible routes and access rights, and emphasize adherence to safety standards and environmental preservation measures.
- Road Legal: Only motorcycles that fully comply with road regulations are permitted for use on green lanes. Compliance includes possessing valid insurance, a current MOT certificate, and up-to-date road tax.
- Public Rights of Way: Green lanes form an integral part of the public highway network and are governed by the same legal regulations as conventional tarmac roads.
- Code of Conduct: All riders are required to comply with the established code of conduct, which underscores the significance of preserving and respecting the natural environment, including the countryside and its wildlife. This commitment ensures responsible riding practices that protect the landscape and promote harmony between riders, nature, and local communities.
- Legal Routes: Riding is prohibited on public footpaths, bridleways, restricted byways, as well as on areas designated as open access or common land.
- Joining a specialist motorcycle club, such as the Trail Riders Fellowship, GLASS or Trail Vidz, can be highly beneficial for individuals who are unfamiliar with legal riding routes. These organizations offer expert guidance, share valuable knowledge, and provide members with access to established and lawful routes, ensuring both compliance with regulations and an enjoyable riding experience.
Riding safely and following the rules is key to keeping the legal green lanes open for everyone to enjoy.
Find more useful resources below.
The Trail Riders Fellowship (TRF) – Founded in 1970 in response to the latest legislation which reduced the public’s access on roads throughout the countryside.
Since then, it has maintained a vigil against a series of sustained attempts by anti-public access activists to further reduce the public’s access, including that of motorcyclists, on the Green (unsealed) and minor road network.
Trail Vidz – TrailVidz offers comprehensive navigation points, along with video and photographic reference materials, for legal UK byways and lanes to support and inspire riders in their adventure riding pursuits. Many riders may believe the routes are too challenging, that they lack the necessary skills, or that their motorcycle is unsuitable. Others may wish to bypass less engaging sections of a journey. With TrailVidz, riders can make informed decisions for themselves, assessing the terrain and routes with confidence.
Article written by Nige.
Last update: December 2025
Nige has travelled to various places all over the globe. He enjoys nothing more than a ride and camp out.
Nige is just starting out trail riding after five or six years just on the black stuff, expect a blog post or more on this in the not too distant future.
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