Wisconsin Lawmakers Look to Expand ATV Size Limits

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Posted: 1:31 PM Jul 11, 2009 Wisconsin Lawmakers Look to Expand ATV Size Limits MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Three Wisconsin lawmakers are introducing legislation to allow larger models of all-terrain vehicles on state trails. Reporter: AP

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MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Three Wisconsin lawmakers are introducing legislation to allow larger models of all-terrain vehicles on state trails.

Current state law says ATVs on Wisconsin trails can be up to 48 inches wide. But many 2009 models are 2 inches wider, an adjustment believed to make them more stable.

Rep. Ann Hraychuck is a Democrat representing Balsam Lake in northern Wisconsin. She says people who own the bigger machines have complained after they found out the machines are only allowed on private land, not state trails.

She says expanding the state limits would help bring recreational income into Wisconsin.

The measure is co-sponsored by Democratic state Sen. Jim Holperin and Republican state Rep. Scott Suder.

Latest Comments

Posted by: Carrie Location: Wausau on Oct 27, 2009 at 05:40 PM

If Kathy was really in touch with what is going on in the ATV industry, she would realize that the new machines are fuel injected and more efficient then older models. My 700 cc is more efficient then my old 350. People are more in tune to the environment and believe in "tread lightly". Our land is for the public to enjoy not fly over in an airplane and look at it. A majority of ATV riders are "nature lovers" and have taken up the sport because of the enjoyment it brings to those that can drive (unable to walk) through nature. And it is a sport that all ages of the family (young to grandparents) can enjoy together. There are many areas in the state that are considered "quiet areas" (and they far out number the motorized areas). We need to work together and not criticize each other for our preferred interests.
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Posted by: Kathy Location: Wausau on Aug 7, 2009 at 01:53 PM

With today's economic challenges and a newly energized "go green" approach, it's hard to accept that allowing larger gas-guzzling ATVs on our state trails that can pollute and tear up our environment more is a good idea. In reporting this story, it sure would have been nice to see the other side of the story. It surely, and unfortunately, glorified this law change, stating that ATV riding is a great family activity. How about encouraging families to get more active, bicycling or hiking or swimming, rather than promoting more motorized activities.
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