Can Two-Wheeled Motorcycles Access Highways?
4 Answers
Two-wheeled motorcycles are permitted on highways. The "Implementation Regulations of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China" contain relevant provisions, explicitly allowing motorcycles to travel on highways, but with several restrictions, as follows: Speed Limit: When traveling on highways, motorcycles must maintain a minimum speed of no less than 60km/h and a maximum speed not exceeding 80km/h. Both driving too slowly and speeding will result in corresponding penalties. No Passengers: Motorcycles on highways are only allowed to travel in the rightmost lane and must not occupy other lanes. Additionally, carrying passengers while driving on highways is prohibited.
I've been riding motorcycles for nearly thirty years, and they are generally not allowed on most highways, especially within China, as traffic safety regulations strictly prohibit two-wheeled motorcycles from entering the highway network. Only a few areas in Yunnan and Xinjiang conditionally permit it. The main reason is that highway speeds exceed 100 km/h, and motorcycles, being lightweight and less stable, are prone to losing control due to crosswinds or airflow from large vehicles—this is especially dangerous for beginners. I tried it once when I was younger and nearly had an accident, so I’ve stuck to riding in cities or on national roads since then. Safety-wise, wearing helmets and protective gear is crucial, but the risks on highways far exceed expectations. Therefore, I advise fellow riders to follow the rules, avoid taking unnecessary risks, and instead practice their skills on dedicated lanes or low-speed roads for greater reliability.
As a motorcycle enthusiast in my early twenties, I often dream of experiencing the thrill of speed on the highway, but the reality is that regulations don't allow it due to heavy traffic and high speeds, which make motorcycles prone to rear-end collisions or accidents. I've been to several provinces, and only some mountainous highways may allow brief passage, but extra caution is needed for wind resistance and road potholes. For safety, I always check tire pressure and the braking system to ensure a smooth ride. Although the restrictions are a bit regrettable, safety comes first, and I prefer to enjoy the freedom of riding on open roads.
Based on my understanding of traffic regulations, two-wheeled motorcycles are generally prohibited on highways, as clearly stipulated by the Road Traffic Safety Law to reduce accident risks. Reasons include the high speed limits on highways, which make motorcycles prone to losing balance and causing chain collisions; exceptions on certain sections require compliance with local policies and certification of driving licenses and experience. Violations will result in fines and point deductions, with road safety being the top priority.
