Hey all,

I'm new to the forum, and to riding motorcycles.

I am contemplating spending a couple months this summer exploring China on a motorcycle. I've been here several times and have a decent grasp of the language. I've ridden motorcycles and scooters before, but hope to find someplace in or near Guangzhou to take some lessons. But that's a separate issue.

My main concern is that all the various bans on motorcycle use in various cities, parts of cities, expressways, etc. will take away from the freedom and flexibility I'm looking for. I want to explore the non-touristy parts of China, "real China" so to speak, and I'd much prefer the freedom and flexibility of a motorcycle to public transportation. However, all the rules on where you can and cannot ride a bike make me think I might be better off taking trains and buses.

So to the many experienced China riders on this forum, how do you deal with the bans? How do you get reliable information on them (i.e. before getting stopped by the cops)? Do you just leave the bike at a small hotel in the suburbs and then take a bus into the city?

Cheers!

Chris