Which Lane Should Motorcycles Use?
3 Answers
Motorcycles should use the right-hand motor vehicle lane on the road. Reasons for motorcycles using the right lane: According to Article 44 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China," if there are two or more motor vehicle lanes in the same direction on the road, the left lane is the fast lane, and the right lane is the slow lane. Motorcycles should drive in the rightmost lane. Traffic signs indicate the speed limit, and drivers should follow the indicated speed. Motorcycle riding tips: Directional arrow markings on the road can be as slippery as ice. Slow down in advance to avoid them; if unavoidable, release the brakes before riding over them. During traffic jams or while waiting for a green light, do not get too close to the vehicle in front—maintain at least a motorcycle's length of distance. Also, avoid occupying the center of the road; instead, align parallel to the left wheel of the vehicle in front to better spot road hazards such as potholes, oil spills, or puddles.
After riding motorcycles for so many years, I always remind beginners to choose the appropriate lane based on road conditions. On regular city roads, motorcycles should use the vehicle lanes just like cars, preferably the right or middle lane, which is both safe and compliant with traffic rules. Never ride in bicycle lanes or on sidewalks, as that's illegal. When on highways, it's advisable to stay in the driving lane or slow lane, avoiding the overtaking lane unless you need to pass. Maintain a steady speed and don't compete with cars for space, otherwise you risk being rear-ended. I often observe other motorcyclists and notice some like to weave between cars, which is very dangerous due to cars' large blind spots—it's often too late when an accident happens. Therefore, choosing the right lane not only ensures your safety but also makes traffic flow smoother. Remember, following the rules is key, and cautious riding is always essential—protecting yourself is what matters most.
Buddy, when I first started learning to ride a motorcycle, I was also confused about which lane to take. The instructor said that in the city, motorcycles should ideally stay near the center line or the right side of the motor vehicle lane, similar to cars. On highways, don’t weave around—just stay in the travel lane and follow the rules for left and right turns. The most annoying thing is those riders who take the non-motorized vehicle lane, making pedestrians nervous. Also, don’t squeeze through gaps in traffic jams; it’s easy to get scratched or bumped. I’ve tried it a few times myself—just sticking to one lane steadily actually makes the ride less frustrating. Safety is the top priority; I don’t want to spend a fortune on repairs. On highways, the wind is strong, and keeping the motorcycle steady in the middle of the lane reduces wobbling, making the ride more comfortable and safe. In short, learn the rules and don’t try to be too clever. Riding is fun, but choosing the right lane is the key to enjoying it for the long haul.
