Previously, motorcycle riders at Misawa Air Base in northern Japan were allowed to operate their bikes only between April 1 and Nov. 1. (Jonathan Snyder/Stars and Stripes)

Motorcycle riders are now allowed to ride year-round at an air base in northern Japan after a base policy change announced Thursday.

Previously, the 165 motorcycle riders at Misawa Air Base were allowed to operate their bikes only between April 1 and Nov. 1, a base spokeswoman told Stars and Stripes on Friday.

“The recent modification to the motorcycle riding season policy was initiated by Col. Michael Richard, 35th Fighter Wing commander,” spokeswoman Staff Sgt. Kristen Heller said by email.

The base is in Aomori prefecture, which receives some of the highest snowfall in Japan.

Winter motorcycling is under some restrictions. Riders may rev up if the road condition at Misawa is green, road conditions permit safe riding and their motorcycles are equipped with snow or all-season tires, according to a post Thursday on Misawa’s official Facebook page.

Green road conditions indicate that roads on base are safe to drive on.

“This change reflects our commitment to empowering our riders with greater autonomy in making decisions regarding their motorcycle use,” Heller said. “This approach aims to respect and trust the judgment of our riders while ensuring their safety.”

Misawa in the past year recorded two motorcycle mishaps, she said.

“This data is crucial in guiding our policy decisions and safety measures to minimize risks and enhance the safety of our motorcycle riding community,” Heller said.

In fiscal 2023, the Air Force lost 22 people to motorcycle accidents, according to a service news release in October.