South Carolina, Myrtle Beach area motorcycle laws to know before coming for Bike Week
In May, the Myrtle Beach area will receive an influx of motorcyclists heading to the Grand Strand for two annual bike rallies that bring thousands of people, including many riders from out of state.
Myrtle Beach Bike Week and Black Bike Week are decades-old rallies that come to Myrtle Beach and Atlantic Beach in the spring and over Memorial Day weekend.
Here are the motorcycle laws to follow in South Carolina and Horry County, including when to wear a helmet, how bike parking works and what violates the noise ordinance.
Who has to wear a helmet?
If you are under the age of 21, South Carolina requires you to wear safety goggles or a face shield and a helmet. The helmet has to be approved by the Department of Public Safety and must have a chin or neck strap and be reflective on the sides. Bikers can avoid wearing safety goggles if there is a wind shield on the motorcycle.
Not wearing a helmet or goggles could result in a misdemeanor, a fine of up to $100 and up to 30 days in jail.
What are the parking and riding laws?
In Myrtle Beach, there may be up to two motorcycles in one parking spot and, if the spot is metered, both vehicles must pay for parking.
South Carolina allows up to two motorcycles to ride in one lane of traffic and bikes may not weave in between vehicles.
It is prohibited for any motor vehicle to drive on the beach, marsh or sidewalk. Racing is also illegal in Myrtle Beach.
Horry County specifically prohibits motorcycle “holding,” which is when a motorcycle stops traffic at an intersection so a group may pass by without following traffic signals.
South Carolina law states that no motorcyclist can carry a package or bundle if it prevents them from having both hands on the handlebars. In order for two people to ride on a motorcycle, the bike must have seats for two people.
Bikers must also not have any obscene bumper stickers. This includes bumper stickers with obscene or indecent words and sexual imagery.
Do I have to worry about noise?
Horry County bans motorcycle burnouts and excessive engine revving and acceleration. It also requires engines to have mufflers. Honking for reasons other than a danger warning is prohibited in Horry County as well.
County quiet hours are from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., so drivers must make sure to turn down music and hold off on shouting during that time period.
