Are you captivated by the thrill of riding, specifically motorcycling, and have a knack for exploration? Well, buckle up as we are about to delve into the exciting world of having a Chinese motorcycle in China.
However, prepare for a ride filled with challenges and surprises, from obtaining Chinese driving licenses and number plates to maneuvering through cities with restricted access. Safety is a matter of utmost importance, and while some might worry about brand reliability, know that the majority of these Chinese motorcycles are tested thoroughly.
Whether you’re on a scooter or handling a machine with more power and long travel suspension, you’ll need to spend time considering factors like license, plates, fuel consumption, and local traffic policies.
Though some motorcycles or bikes might be a bit slow, the riding adventure is worth the hurdles, and this insightful article holds the map to navigate this motorcycle journey on the road in Shanghai and beyond.
1. What Do You Need to Ride Motorcycle in China
If your bike, including electric models, exceeds a speed of 25 km/h, you’ll need a license. If you hold a full motorcycle license from your home country, you can convert it to a Chinese license. However, this option is only available if your home license covers full motorcycle use and not just a 125cc automatic endorsement. If you don’t have a suitable license, you’ll need to take the motorcycle test in China.
The real challenge lies in obtaining the plate, unless you’re exceptionally rich. Prices for a 沪A plate typically start at around ¥300,000 and can even exceed ¥400,000. Additionally, acquiring one is akin to a lottery, with potential wait times of several years after application.
For road access in downtown areas – only Blue A plates make sense or electric scooters in Shanghai.
2. Motorbike Licenses Test
First off, you’ll need to pass a written test. It’s a bit challenging, but with good preparation, you can ace it! Then come the driving lessons, giving you the practical skills necessary to handle a Chinese motorcycle safely.
Oh, and don’t forget the health check. It’s a necessary step to ensure you’re in good physical shape to be one of the riders in China. Plus, you’ll need several documents – it is crucial to double-check you have everything needed.
You might be wondering, what happens if you ride without a valid license in China? The penalties can be quite severe! They range from fines, which can put a dent in your wallet, to worse, imprisonment. Trust me, it’s not a risk worth taking, so always make sure you have a valid motorbike license before you hit the road on your two-wheeler.
3. City Policy for Motorcycles
In China, there are certain cities that restrict motorcycles from their city centers. It’s a fact. It can be quite a surprise, especially when you’re ready to go on a thrilling ride, only to find out your motorcycle isn’t allowed.
Additionally, Chinese motorcycles are often used in remote areas where road works may necessitate DIY diversions, and riders face challenges like a lack of proper signage and navigating obstacles. Motorcycle parts might need to be repaired or replaced due to such conditions, and taking a course on local regulations can be very beneficial.
Moreover, not only do you have to be aware of restricted zones in cities, but also, you have to deal with the inaccessibility of fuel stations and expressways.
Different cities have different motorcycle policies and limits. For Shanghai, check the 上海交警 APP for details. For other cities, check the local traffic management app.
4. Alternatives
Owning and driving a regular motorcycle in bustling Chinese cities, like Shanghai, comes with its own set of challenges, and the costs could potentially stack up. From registration fees to restricted access in city centers, it might feel a bit like riding uphill.
So, what’s the best way to zip around the city, you ask? I have found that electric scooters often come out on top in these situations.
They are not only cheaper, but their small and compact design, including the tire size, makes navigation easier, especially on busy roads. Plus, they are more environmentally friendly, requiring less fuel, and often exempt from the restrictions placed on regular bikes.
If you are planning to buy a transportation for daily commute, you might want to consider opting for an electric scooter for a smoother and cost-efficient ride.
Regular motorcycles with more power might face more restrictions, so choosing an electric scooter could be a practical solution for riders navigating the city.
5. Import a Motorcycle for Use on Chinese Roads?
Importing a motorcycle into China can seem like a daunting task, especially when you’re unaware of the process and requirements involved. Trading companies play a crucial role in this process, often handling both the manufacturing and trade of vehicles. Let me break it down for you.
First off, you need to ensure you have all the right documents. These include your passport, purchase invoice, and a shipping bill.
After you’ve secured these, you must apply for an import permit from the Chinese customs. They will review your application, inspect the motorcycle, and check the emissions before granting the permit.
Once you have received the approval from customs, the next step is the vehicle inspection. The Environmental Protection Agency of China does this to ensure that the motorcycle meets the national emission standards.
Lastly, you’ll need to get your motorcycle registered with the local Public Security Bureau Traffic Management to receive a Chinese number plate, making it legal for riding on Chinese roads.
Remember, each step is crucial to successfully importing and getting approval for using your motorcycle on Chinese roads. It might seem a bit complicated, but with patience and the right documentation, it’s absolutely doable! Check our post about how to get a Chinese driver license.
