Can motorcycles use bus lanes?
4 Answers
Motorcycles are not allowed to use bus lanes during restricted hours because motorcycles are also motor vehicles and are subject to the same peak-hour restrictions as buses. Below is a detailed introduction to the rules for driving in bus lanes: Permitted vehicles: Bus lanes are designated for buses, but also allow school buses, passenger coaches, and large or medium-sized fixed-route buses operated by units or enterprises (with yellow license plates) to use them when carrying passengers. Restricted hours: Bus lanes are in operation on weekdays from 7:30 to 8:30 and from 17:00 to 18:00. On weekends and public holidays, bus lanes (except those set up on one-way roads) may allow other motor vehicles to use them.
I specifically asked a traffic police friend about this. Basically, bus lanes in most areas only allow buses, school buses, and specific commuter vehicles. Ordinary motorcycles entering them will definitely get a ticket. Last week, I saw a delivery rider get caught on Jianguo Road with my own eyes and was fined 200 yuan. However, note that some cities have open time slots for bus lanes. For example, Shanghai allows general traffic after 8 PM and on weekends. The safest approach is to look up at the lane signs – never enter those marked with bus icons and time restrictions. Motorcycles occupying bus lanes not only risk fines but also sudden lane changes that can lead to being rear-ended by buses, which is quite dangerous.
As someone who commutes by motorcycle every day, I suggest staying far away from bus lanes. Don’t be fooled by how empty they usually are—cameras catch motorcycles in them without fail. Last year, Shenzhen even upgraded its monitoring system to detect lane-crossing violations. In certain cities like Chengdu, motorcycles are allowed to use bus lanes for right turns, but you must signal at least 100 meters in advance. Once, I was in a hurry and accidentally entered a tidal bus lane in Hangzhou—three days later, I got a penalty notice on the 12123 app. If you want to avoid trouble, just stick to regular vehicle lanes. The few minutes you save by using a bus lane aren’t worth the fine.
The rules for using bus lanes really depend on the city. In Beijing, like on Chang'an Avenue, motorcycles aren't even allowed in the bicycle lane, let alone the bus lane. In Guangzhou, some BRT lanes can be used during morning and evening rush hours. In Chongqing, some bus lanes marked with motorcycle symbols are accessible. The key points to check are: whether the road markings are yellow dashed lines, if there are bus lane signs on the poles, and if the intersection signs prohibit certain vehicle types. Nowadays, navigation apps are quite smart—Amap will give a voice reminder saying 'Bus lane ahead, do not enter'.
