(COLO) – In Colorado, most riders put their motorcycles away for the “true” off-season around November each year, but riding season has been extended, as above-average temperatures continue across lower elevations. With clear, dry road conditions and consistent temperatures above freezing in November and December, troopers believe this could be one of the factors contributing to an abnormal increase in motorcycle crashes.
“This week, as the weekend's snow melts away, the forecast looks warm again and will likely tempt many avid riders,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Drivers are not accustomed to seeing many motorcycles this time of year, but should stay alert to avoid unattended collisions.”
Looking at motorcycle crashes investigated by Colorado State Troopers, November and December historically see significant drops. In 2025, the crash data showed a much different trend. Using a four-year average (2021-2024) of fatal motorcycle crashes, the Patrol compared these months to 2025 data:
- November 2025 saw 4 more fatal crashes, 5 additional injury crashes and 12 more M/C crashes overall than the 4-year average would predict.
- December 2025 saw 3 more fatal crashes, 3 more injury crashes and 6 more M/C crashes overall than the 4-year average would predict.
“Riders are not starting the year off right. If you intend to bring your bike out on warmer days, put safety first,” stated Col. Packard. “Troopers already investigated one fatal motorcycle crash in January of 2026, and this isn’t very common. We’ve only had one recorded fatal crash covered in the last four years.”
Troopers want riders to wear their protective gear and prioritize safety. Looking at citation data in 2025, the top three violations issued to motorcycle riders by the Patrol were:
- Careless driving
- Operating a motorcycle without an endorsement
- Speeding (10-29 MPH over)
Safety is a shared responsibility on the roads.
###
ABOUT THE COLORADO STATE PATROL
Since our origin in 1935, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) has focused on preserving human life and protecting property within our communities. Our 1,100 members embody the core values of Honor, Duty, and Respect in their daily jobs. In addition to our expertise in motor vehicle safety on the state’s roadways, the CSP is responsible for the protection of the Governor and other dignitaries, commercial motor vehicle enforcement, hazardous materials, homeland security, communications, investigative services, criminal interdiction, community education, aviation operations, and more. For additional information, visit us online at Colorado State Patrol or follow us on X, Instagram, YouTube, or Facebook.