Is Riding a Motorcycle at 40 km/h Dangerous?
2 Answers
Riding a motorcycle at 40 km/h is not dangerous. In China, most motorcycles are 125cc, so the safe speed should be considered based on standard 125cc motorcycles. Although many 125cc motorcycles can reach a maximum speed of 100 km/h, the general speed limit for motorcycles on regular roads is 60 km/h, and the safe speed should be within 50 km/h. Below is an introduction to motorcycle license types D, E, and F: D License: License Code: D, Application Age: 18-60 years, Permitted Vehicle Type: Standard two-wheeled motorcycle, Permitted Models: Three-wheeled motorcycles with an engine displacement exceeding 50ml or a maximum design speed exceeding 50 km/h, Other Permitted Models: E, F, Annual Physical Exam: Not required for those under 60 years old, Exam Vehicle Requirements: At least a standard three-wheeled motorcycle with four speeds or a standard sidecar motorcycle. E License: License Code: E, Application Age: 18-60 years, Permitted Vehicle Type: Standard two-wheeled motorcycle, Permitted Models: Two-wheeled motorcycles with an engine displacement exceeding 50ml or a maximum design speed exceeding 50 km/h, Other Permitted Models: F, Annual Physical Exam: Not required for those under 60 years old, Exam Vehicle Requirements: At least a standard two-wheeled motorcycle with four speeds. F License: License Code: F, Application Age: 18-70 years, Permitted Vehicle Type: Light motorcycle, Permitted Models: Motorcycles with an engine displacement of 50ml or less and a maximum design speed of 50 km/h or less, Other Permitted Models: Only F, no other permitted models, Annual Physical Exam: Not required for those under 60 years old, Exam Vehicle Requirements: To be determined by provincial traffic management authorities under the public security department.
Riding a motorcycle at 40 km/h doesn't seem dangerous to me on urban roads, but it depends on road conditions and experience. As a seasoned rider who travels in the city year-round, 40 km/h is within the normal speed limit. On dry roads, maintaining control is stable, but it gets slippery when it rains or there's gravel, and sudden braking might cause a skid. Remember, the braking distance is about ten meters—if a car suddenly changes lanes or someone darts out at an intersection, reaction time is extremely short. New riders often forget to wear full gear, but I always emphasize that helmets are mandatory; a fall at 40 km/h with head impact could be fatal. In bad weather, strong winds and poor visibility require even slower speeds. Safe riding ultimately relies on accumulated experience and regular maintenance checks.
