MOTORCYCLE RIDING GUIDE IN THE PHILIPPINES

A good motorcycle trip starts before the engine does. Knowing which roads you can use, what documents to carry and how to prepare for local conditions gives you more freedom to enjoy the ride.

Whether you are planning mountain roads, coastal stretches or countryside detours, this guide from Motorcycle Adventures Philippines (M.A.P.) covers the essentials for riding a motorcycle in the Philippines.

Choose a motorcycle that suits your experience, your route and the amount of luggage you plan to carry. Be realistic about daily distances, especially when your itinerary includes unfamiliar roads or unpaved sections.

Before booking, confirm:
- Your licence covers the motorcycle you want to rent.
- Your planned riding is permitted under the rental agreement.
- Your insurance covers your motorcycle category and intended activities.
- You understand the rental terms, equipment inclusions and damage responsibilities.

Renting a Honda CRF150L or CRF300L? Both models are below the 400cc minimum for limited-access expressways. Plan your journey using alternative national, provincial and local roads, and always follow posted motorcycle access restrictions.

Visiting tourists with a valid foreign driving licence may generally drive in the Philippines for up to 90 days from arrival. Your licence must authorize you to ride the motorcycle you intend to rent.

If your licence is not in English, arrange an official English translation through the issuing country’s embassy. An International Driving Permit does not replace your original licence or extend the 90-day period.

If you intend to ride after that period, check the applicable Philippine licensing requirements with the Land Transportation Office before making plans. Read the official guidance on foreign driving licences.

Check your documents before booking—not on collection day.

No. The Honda CRF150L and CRF300L are below the minimum engine displacement required for limited-access expressways. The applicable motorcycle access regulations specify at least 400cc. This matters when planning a motorcycle trip from Manila, where navigation apps may suggest expressway routes.

Before setting off:
- Select “Avoid highways” and “Avoid tolls,” where available.
- Review the full route rather than relying only on turn-by-turn directions.
- Check the route again if your app recalculates it.
- Follow posted access restrictions.

Build your day around the roads your motorcycle can use. Allow time for traffic, fuel, meals and stops along the way.

Both riders and passengers must wear standard protective motorcycle helmets under Philippine law, including on short journeys. See the LTO’s motorcycle helmet guidance.

For a more comfortable and better-protected ride, wear:
- A correctly fitted helmet with the strap fastened.
- Motorcycle gloves.
- Protective riding clothing.
- Sturdy footwear that covers your ankles.
- Rain protection suited to riding.

For unpaved routes, choose protective equipment appropriate to the terrain and your experience.

Check the weather along your route, including mountain sections and any planned ferry crossings. Use PAGASA’s forecasts and advisories when deciding whether to continue, delay or change your plans.

In wet conditions, reduce speed, increase your following distance and brake smoothly. Watch for mud, loose gravel, painted markings and metal surfaces.

If heavy rain or fog limits your view, stop somewhere safe. Do not enter floodwater when you cannot judge its depth, current or the condition of the road underneath.

Leave flexibility in your itinerary. Sometimes the best riding decision is a shorter day.

A dual-sport motorcycle opens up route options, but a track on a map does not guarantee permission to ride there.

Before leaving paved roads:
- Confirm your rental agreement permits the planned riding.
- Check access to private land, protected areas and community-managed trails.
- Choose terrain within your ability.
- Understand your responsibilities for damage and recovery.
- Stay on established routes, slow down near homes and livestock, respect local instructions and take your rubbish with you. Avoid riding on trails where your tyres would cause unnecessary damage.

Discuss your intended route with M.A.P. before booking, particularly if it includes off-road sections.

Download offline maps, charge your phone and carry a power bank. Protect your device from rain and set your destination before you start riding.

If you need to check directions or change the route, pull over somewhere safe.

Philippine distracted-driving rules restrict mobile-device use while driving. Mounted devices must not interfere with the rider’s line of sight. Refer to the official distracted-driving rules.

Keep your valid riding licence and the motorcycle documents specified for your rental accessible. Have identification and evidence of your arrival date available when relevant to your foreign-licence entitlement.

At checkpoints, slow down, follow officers’ directions and stop safely when instructed.

When parking, choose a secure, visible location. Use the steering lock and any available security lock, and take valuables with you.

Before departure, save M.A.P.’s current contact details and confirm how to report a puncture, breakdown or accident.

If something happens:
1. Stop safely and seek emergency assistance first if anyone is injured.
2. Share your location and explain the situation.
3. Take photographs when it is safe to do so.
4. Follow the reporting procedure in your rental agreement.

Check your travel insurance before the trip. Confirm coverage for your licence status, motorcycle engine size and planned riding, including any off-road activity. Review the rental agreement separately for vehicle damage, exclusions and recovery charges.

A few minutes before departure can help prevent a disrupted day.

- Check tyres, brakes, lights, mirrors and fuel.
- Secure luggage away from wheels, controls and the exhaust.
- Review the route and weather.
- Carry water, documents, rain protection and a charged phone.
- Plan your stops and aim to arrive before dark.