Everywhere you look these days you see autocycles. This is especially true here in Indiana. Autocycles are fun, stylish, and perfectly legal. Of course, you must obey the laws that are specific to the autocycle.

Are The Laws For Autocycles The Same As For Motorcycles?

No, they are not. The autocycle looks like a machine that is half-car and half-motorcycle, but it is a vehicle in its own right. The state has developed particular laws for this particular vehicle.

What Is An Autocycle?

An autocycle has two wheels on the front and one wheel on the back. Some are designed to look more like the front of a car than a cycle. There are many designs. Some models have completely enclosed seating areas for the operator and their passenger. Others have partial coverage.

Autocycles are vehicles that operate on three-wheels. The operator and any passenger that rides on the autocycle are in a completely or partially enclosed seating area. An autocycle has a roll-cage, roll-hoops, and anti-lock brakes. They are designed to be controlled with a steering wheel and pedals, and they have a safety belt for each occupant.

Are There Similar Machines?

An autocycle compares to the Polaris Slingshot or a Vanderhall (due to the seating area being fully or partially enclosed.) However, it would not compare to a Can-Am Spyder.

Keep in mind, different brands and different styles are made for different people. It is important to remember that just because you look like you are in an automobile, you are not. These machines handle differently and you must learn to maintain control. You should also keep in mind that while all the folks around you are looking at you, they are not looking at the road. So be diligent.

If you just want the flashy, glamor of turning heads as you zip around town, there are some awesome autocycles just waiting for you. However, if you are looking for absolute breath-taking speed you want something like the Polaris Slingshot. With the Slingshot, you are traveling extremely fast, in a very short period of time. The Slingshot is made for speed, not comfort. It is like riding a go-cart at 90 MPH with very little between you and the ground. Hitting a pothole can hurt you and your autocycle if you are traveling fast enough.

The Good Stuff

Autocycles are the coolest inventions since indoor plumbing. They look like something from out of the future and everybody wants to hitch a ride! They are beautiful and they get a lot of attention!

Indiana law does not require motorcycle endorsement for the autocycle.

There are already companies trying to make autocycles that are more efficient, more family-friendly, and easier to repair.  So the present is great and the future is looking brighter still.

As always, be smart, be safe, and enjoy the ride!