Can Motorcycles Ride on Highways?
3 Answers
The 'Road Traffic Safety Law' does not mention prohibiting motorcycles from riding on highways. Provinces such as Jiangsu, Jiangxi, and Shandong have explicitly stated that motorcycles are not allowed on highways. Requirements vary by province and city. Below is an introduction regarding motorcycles on highways: Complete documents and full equipment: To ride a motorcycle on the highway, you must carry your driver's license, vehicle registration certificate, helmet, etc., and the motorcycle's rear seat is not allowed to carry passengers. If you don't even have the most basic helmet, riding a motorcycle on the highway is very dangerous. Speed requirements: The displacement must meet the standard. Highways have clear speed regulations; the maximum speed for cars is 120 km/h, but the maximum speed for motorcycles on the highway cannot exceed 80 km/h, and the minimum speed cannot be less than 60 km/h. This is indeed challenging for motorcyclists who are not good at controlling speed. Within this speed range, there is only a 20 km/h fluctuation, and failing to manage the speed properly could easily result in speeding or falling below the minimum speed limit.
From my years of experience riding motorcycles, motorcycles are indeed allowed on highways, but this depends on the specific regional laws and regulations. For example, in China, most provinces permit motorcycles on highways, but riders must have a valid license, wear a full-face helmet, avoid carrying passengers, and maintain speeds between 80 to 100 kilometers per hour. Highway riding offers an exhilarating sense of freedom—you can feel the wind rushing past and enjoy the scenery along the way—but safety always comes first. Before every highway ride, I check tire pressure, the braking system, and lights, and avoid riding in rainy or windy conditions since motorcycles are less stable than cars. I recommend fellow riders check local traffic laws in advance and choose models with an engine displacement of 250cc or above to ensure smooth riding. Remember, highways have many large trucks, so maintaining a safe distance is crucial.
From the perspective of laws, regulations, and safety standards, motorcycles must comply with strict conditions to access highways. Regulations vary across regions: in Europe and America, many areas permit motorcycles on highways but require specialized licenses; in China, policies differ by province—for instance, Jiangsu allows it while Shanghai prohibits it. Riders must wear certified helmets and reflective clothing, and passenger transport is forbidden. Low-displacement vehicles are prone to drifting, which can cause accidents. Safety-wise, motorcycles on highways are susceptible to crosswinds, so it's advised to stay alert and regularly maintain the chain and engine oil. If road conditions are complex or congested, opting for alternative routes is recommended.
