Hello,
I recently had the notion to travel around China on a scooter or motorbike. I will be in China for just under 3 months, from May 16th to August 1st and was hoping anybody could tell me anything that would pertain to this.
1. I will arrive in Shanghai - how easy is it to pick up a bike and what price should i expect?
2. How are the roads?
3. Basically, how safe do you think it will be?
4. Is it worth it, or are buses and trains cheap enough and relatively hassle free?
5. I only have a British Drivers licence and CBT licence, will this make any difference as I assume, it will be a lot more lax.
Any extra information would be greatly appreciated.
Thanking you in advance.
Gemma.
itchy_burdens
1
astroboy
It's complex - but this guide should answer some questions
I think 4 is really your answer, unless you have a deep and abiding need to really do this by motorcycle. I've seen foreigners touring on motorcycles, but trains and buses are FAR less hassle than buying and owning a motorbike in China (see the link to see what I mean)
3
astroboy
I don't think the roads are that dangerous. . . it's more learning what the local customs are. My friend has a car in Shanghai - he said it took him about a week to get used to driving in China.
5
jbruyndonckx
Astroboy, interesting link...
[snip]
4. You are driving up to an intersection where there is no signal light or policeman, A man is crossing in the crosswalk in front of your car. You should:
a) Blow your horn signaling the pedestrian to yield the right-of-way.
b) Stop and give him the right-of-way.
c) Continue into the intersection.
[/snip]
1 day in China will teach you that the correct answer is:
d) Do nothing, it's the pedestrian who should jump out of the way. :-)
8
astroboy
<blockquote>Quote
<hr>
1 day in China will teach you that the correct answer is:
d) Do nothing, it's the pedestrian who should jump out of the way.<hr></blockquote>
Out of everything in China I have to adjust to - this is the biggest adjustment for me.
9
stoognik
you might want to look into the labyrinth that pertains to foreigners driving their own vehicles in china. its not as straightforward as india where you just buy a vehicle and go for it. especially concerning anywhere that may be seen as restricted.
most foreigners with vehicles are rwsidents with connections who are restricted to the city they live in. some foreigners do bring a car or bike in or procure them inside, but it takes literally months of paperwork and 'fees'.
sorry to burst your bubble. maybe im wrong, but with lots of transport and the performance on chinese roads and hassles with the PSB, it may not be worth it.
good luck tho.
Pro tip
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