What displacement of motorcycles is allowed on highways?
3 Answers
Motorcycles with an engine displacement of 50cc or above are allowed on highways. When riding on highways, the maximum speed of a motorcycle must not exceed 80 km/h, and the minimum speed must not be below 60 km/h. Regulations for motorcycles on highways: The riding speed of a motorcycle must not be less than 60 km/h, and the maximum speed must not exceed 80 km/h. When riding a motorcycle on a highway, carrying passengers is prohibited, and wearing a helmet is mandatory. Except during public holidays designated by the State Council when tolls are waived, motorcycles are charged according to the toll standard for passenger vehicles with fewer than 7 seats. According to the speed limits for different lanes on highways, motorcycles should ride in the outermost lane. The rear seat of a motorcycle must not carry minors under the age of 12, and lightweight motorcycles must not carry any passengers. Motorcycles must not tow other vehicles or be towed by other vehicles. Riders must not remove their hands from the handlebars or hang items on the handlebars. Passengers on two-wheeled motorcycles must ride facing forward. The motorcycle must have a valid driver's license, vehicle license plate, and other relevant documentation.
Having ridden motorcycles for over a decade, I deeply understand that small displacement bikes are not suitable for highways. Initially, I used a 125cc bike, which was very agile in the city, but once on the highway, it felt unsafe due to slow acceleration, increasing the risk of accidents. Later, I switched to a 150cc bike with sufficient engine power, easily maintaining 90km/h, which felt much safer. According to Chinese traffic regulations, motorcycles typically need to be 150cc or above to legally ride on highways, though some areas may allow 125cc, with 150cc being the standard. I advise friends planning to ride on highways to first check local policies and avoid taking risks like I did before. Safety gear is also crucial—helmets and protective clothing must be worn to protect yourself. Choosing a bike with moderate displacement will make your journey much smoother.
From an automotive perspective, displacement is key when it comes to motorcycles. I often focus on power performance, as small-displacement bikes struggle on highways—125cc models accelerate slowly and are prone to being rear-ended. Upgrading to 150cc increases torque and ensures stable cruising, making it truly suitable for highways. Traffic regulations clearly state that a minimum of 150cc is required for highway use, based on safety tests: maintaining high-speed travel demands sufficient horsepower. In riding circles, we frequently discuss the limitations of small-displacement bikes, such as their susceptibility to wind resistance. I recommend opting for a 150cc or larger bike—don’t skimp on this cost, as safety is priceless. Regularly checking your bike’s condition is also crucial to ensure worry-free journeys.
