What Kind of Motorcycles Are Allowed on Highways?
4 Answers
Motorcycles with an engine displacement exceeding 50cc are permitted on highways. Specific requirements for motorcycles on highways: When driving on highways, riders must wear helmets, maintain a speed between 60-80 km/h, are prohibited from carrying passengers, and must ride in the rightmost lane. Provinces in China where motorcycles are allowed on highways: Anhui, Heilongjiang, Guizhou, Hubei, Hunan, Jilin, and Liaoning. Although the "Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China" does not prohibit motorcycles on highways, some provinces explicitly forbid them, such as Sichuan, Hainan, Fujian, Jiangsu, etc.
I've been riding motorcycles for many years and often take long trips on highways. Here's my experience. For a motorcycle to be suitable for highways, it must have a sufficiently large engine displacement—250cc is the minimum, otherwise, it feels unstable when overtaking on the highway. Small scooters like 125cc are simply not steady enough. A valid motorcycle license is a must—don’t even think about riding without an E or D license, or you’ll face hefty fines from traffic police. In terms of gear, a helmet is essential—I always wear a full-face helmet for safety, and don’t forget gloves and knee guards, as strong winds on highways can lead to accidents. Ensure your bike is in good condition: replace worn-out tires in advance, check the braking system regularly, and ABS is a great bonus for peace of mind. Weather plays a big role—avoid riding in rain or snow, as low visibility doubles the risk. Personally, I recommend cruisers with 500cc or larger engines, like Harley-Davidson or Suzuki touring models—they’re heavy, stable, fuel-efficient, and great for long distances. Remember, safety comes first—if something goes wrong, pull over and don’t push your luck.
From a safety perspective, riding motorcycles on highways carries significant risks, making the choice of bike crucial. The engine displacement should be at least 250cc to ensure sufficient horsepower, allowing quick acceleration to speeds above 80km/h. Smaller displacement bikes like 150cc are more susceptible to being swayed by wind gusts on highways, increasing the risk of accidents. Tires should have wide and deep treads to ensure good traction, especially on wet or slippery roads during rain. The braking system must be responsive, preferably with disc brakes and ABS to prevent skidding during sudden stops. Legally, riders must possess a valid motorcycle license (Class E or D) and wear helmets and reflective vests to enhance visibility. Regular maintenance checks are essential, including chain lubrication and ensuring all lights are functional, as a broken bulb on the highway can be hazardous. It’s advisable to avoid solo night rides, as fatigue increases the likelihood of errors. I’ve seen inexperienced riders take risks on small scooters, resulting in instability and injuries. In summary, opting for a reliable, high-quality bike like Yamaha’s large-displacement series enhances safety.
There are clear regulations for motorcycles on highways. In China, according to traffic laws, the engine displacement generally needs to be above 50cc, but 250cc or more is recommended for highways due to speed requirements. Riders must have the appropriate license (standard motorcycle license E or D), otherwise it's illegal. There are passenger restrictions—only the rider or a passenger on the back seat is allowed, and safety must be ensured. Speed should be kept below 100km/h, with severe fines for speeding. Safety gear is mandatory, including helmets, while reflective vests are optional. Road access varies by province, so check local rules beforehand. In short, follow the rules for safety, such as verifying the vehicle’s annual inspection and valid insurance before riding.
