5 Essential Tips before Riding a motorbike in the Philippines

[@zedspoint4614]

All good tips right here! Also just to add, as mentioned some vehicles don't have headlights, be aware as well that some don't even have breaklights or working indicators, they can really surprise you when they make sudden turns with no warning. other tips: - flashing headlights, while in the UK its usually used to let oncoming traffic know that you're giving them way on the road, in the PH, it can have the opposite effect. - revving the engine when near a group of people (even if unintentional), especially at night can be taken as 'arrogant and challenging', so this can lead to some violent encounters if you're returning to that road later on. much better to just use the horn to let people know you're there. - with regards to public transport, as there's not really any concrete bus stop (aside from terminals and the like) most would just stop on the side of the road as soon as a passenger asked the driver to stop and exit the bus/jeepney. So be extra aware of these sudden signs if you're following closely behind them.

[@Tripleb6036]

Hey Zamir, great tips thanks for sharing.

[@pseudotonal]

Another tip: your lane might end suddenly with no notice, or there might be a parked vehicle in the lane, or there might be construction in that lane, or there might be a sleeping dog/cat/pig/etc. in that lane.

[@brysonjamir872]

instablaster.

[@davidjackson7715]

34 years experience in the Philippines. Now riding the R.E Classic 350 , i absolutely love riding here but everything you say here is correct . Ride defensively, don't loose your cool , someone will pull out in front of you every time you ride , take your time it's not a race, . Just enjoy the ride and good luck it can be a fun experience 😊

[@montemar5471]

When I go riding my motorcycle, a logo comes up on the dash “ Ready to Race” !

[@alvinchong7878]

​@@montemar5471KTM DUKE or KTM RC? 😂😂😂

[@montemar5471]

@ duke

[@cayres1955]

I live in Pangasinan and I ride my Harley Road King here. I always tell people there are no traffic laws in the Philippines, only traffic suggestions. I especially watch out for tricycle drivers, very unpredictable and will pull out in front of you without looking.

[@mikes352]

I hit a dog two different times in the Philippines. Best thing i did was ignore the panic urge to swerve and tracked straight ahead. I think that helped me big time.

[@Tripleb6036]

Ive fortunately never hit one although did hit a cat. You did the right thing, don’t panic and if there is no avoiding it then don’t hit that front brake when you strike the dog. Harsh as it may sound, a little acceleration will help keep the bike balanced.

[@ronaldllacuna1993]

I'm a Fil-Am transitioning to go back and forth to Phil. Thanks for the info.

[@basilioringor4130]

Thank you for the great tips. I am a retired Police Sergeant and a motorcycle rider. On my last trip to the Philippines last year, I drove a rented SUV. I hated driving in Manila and Baguio City, the worst two places you could ever drive in the Philippines because the drivers are NUTZ. People will pass on blind curves and when it is NOT safe to pass. I bearly avoided so much potential "Head ON" collisions, it is NUTZ. On my next trip, I do want to get on a motorcycle. Aside from the usual safety tips you learn as a rider, your tip are great to know. I have to use my horn for often. Aloha from Hawaii !!! Thank you and God Bless !!

[@Tripleb6036]

Thanks for your comment. It certainly takes a while to get used to driving here. Just always assume any vehicle near you is going to do the craziest thing and you will be fine. I ride defensively at all times and I’ve always been okay here except one low side of my own doing. God bless you too.

[@alant383]

Yep, Dumaguete is a no rules zone, especially for recognizable foreigners. 1) vague and faded roadwork signs are one of the biggest hazards at night, especially with oncoming headlights. 2) bikes with no lights and pedestrians who just cross the roads at night are also very hard to see in time. Look on the sides of the road as well as ahead. 3) beware when passing a column of slow traffic when there's a large 1500 pickup truck or bus in the front, because it often means "kuya" is about to turn left across 2 lanes of traffic and he's hidden in front of the truck. 4) last and probably worst is the stray dogs that are all over the otherwise pristine provincial roads in Siquijor. They have zero regard for traffic and are hard to predict where and when they are going to cross in front of you. My worst case was a dog just parked, relaxing slap dash in the middle of the road and a Mack truck was oncoming. I managed to squeeze in between the Mack truck and the dog , but not adviseable. The mountain pass roads are absolutely spectacular though, a bikers dream.

[@Tripleb6036]

Good advice

[@alant383]

@@Tripleb6036 Also if you're renting a scooter or bike, make sure to check it over for tire wear - there should be good tire tread, no UV cracks in the tire wall or uneven wear patterns. Make sure the brakes are working well, especially the front brake. There are some very steep mountain passes in eg Siquijor where failed or fading brakes could mean a high speed crash with severe injuries. There's at least one such case I met here but he found out that the squeaky brakes were brake pads with no brake liner at all, just steel on steel

[@eliodimacali7077]

Excellent video! Sage advice on exercising caution while riding at night and lane deference to an overtaking vehicle on the opposite lane. Here a couple of tips I would like to share with your viewers based on my personal experience riding in the Philippines while on vacation. (1) Don't rely on western-style highway signage. I was in Siargao and I blew through a major intersection that had no STOP signs or traffic lights. Luckily, the locals quickly adjusted to my mistake and yielded to my path of travel. (2) In rural parts of the country, slow way down on busy sections where the major highways runs through. Watch out for vehicles (esp tricycles) abruptly making left turns or U-turns. This is how my brother's buddy got nailed when he was attempting to overtake a tricycle on his Harley.

[@Tripleb6036]

Good advice, especially watching for tricycles and vehicles suddenly turning left with no signal. My ex gf got caught out like this and went straight into the side of a multi cab van, luckily very slowly.

[@nickfifield1]

Greetings from the U.K. I was in the Philippines a few months ago with my Filipina . Back next year . Fellow biker z650 and Ducati scrambler.

[@Tripleb6036]

Greeting from the Philippines. I was back in the UK a few months ago. You got plans to move here? Ah, a Z650, I had one, it’s the reason my left ring finger no longer works after I low sided it in bad weather here.

[@nickfifield1]

@@Tripleb6036 yes, hoping to retire there in a couple years

[@nickfifield1]

How you end up living in the Philippines?

[@Tripleb6036]

Camera here on vacation and basically never left 😂

[@falcuspluscamera]

Very appreciated of the tips. Planning to write next year for approximately two months in Philippines.

[@Tripleb6036]

Stay safe and ride defensively and I’m sure you will have a great time.

[@kanowanderlust5782]

Lanes are treated as suggestion only. People rarely check their mirrors so often drift in and out of lanes. Many Filipino's such as my brother-in-law removes mirrors because they think they are ugly and disconnect lighting system because they think the electricity generated from alternators make the bike slower and use more petrol.

[@terrycavender]

Sounds very similar to riding in Mexico, the only difference is the drivers are more cutthroat. Big trucks, busses, are especially dangerous, they will run you over. I was hit by a pickup truck outside of Mexico city in May of this year. I'm heading to the Philippines next, it looks like a great place to ride. 👍

[@Tripleb6036]

Yeh I guess it’s likely similar. Hope you’ve recovered from your smash. Watch out for pickup trucks here too, and buses, vans and well, just about everything 👀

[@JustForFun-zh7cy]

Fully agree! Also, signaling and working brake lights is a bit of a hit and a miss affair, so best to always stay well back from those in front. What people will learn is that most of the traffic laws existing in other countries do exist here, its simply an enforcement - or lack of - issue. For example - filtering/Lane splitting is illegal, but you wouldn't know it as everyone does it, but it does mean if they decide to enforce it one day, lots and lots of people will fall foul.

[@Tripleb6036]

Oh Yeh signalling is definitely worth a mention, either signals being left on incorrectly all the way down the road or not being used. Also a lot of people use hand signals I guess as its easier to see in the bright sunshine. Interesting that lane splitting is illegal. Didn't know that. I assumed it wasn't as its so common. It's only in the last 6 months here in Barili that everyone wears a helmet due to more checkpoints. That's definitely a good thing although I have seen 'helmets' being used that look like buckets 😂

[@ramynp]

Nice tips and reminders.

[@realtalkreallife9529]

Hey master ride safe here in philippines..One day i will have my own bike and make a vlog like you..

[@jeebaruc3502]

So true.. theres one missing in tip #6 not jst 4x4 also motorcycle riders who loves to counter flow. Specialy if you ride in marilaque. Ride safe bro..

[@Tripleb6036]

Oh that's interesting. I've not seen that down here in the Visayas. Thanks for the info. Ride safe.

[@laagan4606]

Very truee....especialy in my place so many dog 🐕cross the road😟..........another helful tips nice and good ride safe sir!!....👍😍

[@Tripleb6036]

Where's your place? Ride safe.

[@laagan4606]

@@Tripleb6036 im in davao city but if i travel out of davao city so many dog......i nervous in my speed hehehe but i allways ride safe 😎😉

[@jangel7424]

Nice trip bro.. Extra bonus tip bro.. beware of asking directions from LTO specially in metro manila or else the will insist to make some violations..(my friends from manila told me about that) its better to ask some motorcycle rider instead of LTO officers. ride safe bro and also pa shout out nman sa nxt video mo. Salamat!!^^

[@Tripleb6036]

Oh that's a good one John as I've never heard that before. Definitely worth bearing in mind. Shout out to come. Ride safe.

[@flybywir1]

All good tips....especially about the night riding 😱 First thing to understand about riding a bike in PH is that it's about roughly double the risk of riding a bike in the UK....unless you're fairly experienced on a bike in your own country maybe a good idea to limit ur riding in the PH......

[@Tripleb6036]

I completely agree. In fact I suggest that on my motorbike rental company’s website. The Philippines isn’t the place to learn to ride whether it’s a scooter or a motorbike. But if you’re experienced it is a great bike loving destination.

[@chrisgeegilo]

On my 4 visits there, a place called Suba in Samboan, i hate driving my scrum at night, can't see a thing and tinted windscreen deosn't help. No pavements, beeping as soon as i spotted someone in the road, for their safety and mine. I was ok riding my scooter though, probably because its smaller with working lights. My tip for anyone coming from the UK would be go slow and keep right, see and be seen at night. And try to anticipate everything.

[@Tripleb6036]

Good advice. Hate driving my pickup truck at night due to tinted windows and screen. Anyone not used to it here should avoid driving at night. Also, if you’ve no experience riding a bike in your home country then don’t hop on a scooter here. It’s not the place to learn 😂 I’m always seeing tourists pottering along at 20km/h , all over the road . One nearly drove off the road outside my house the other week. He was doing about 5mph 🤦‍♀️

[@markpeters9332]

I would also add, don’t be afraid to wear protective clothing. Nothing would ruin a holiday like having a case of tarmac rash🙈🙈🙈

[@huangdi6068]

I agree with you 101% sir!!! And may I add tip #7 - always bear in mind that the roads are overflowing with "kamote drivers and riders" !!! Do watch out for them mate!!! Ride safe and God bless always!!! New subscriber here!!!

[@trailguy]

Kamote?

[@huangdi6068]

@@trailguy "sweet potato" dumb and idiots on the road

[@rolanddiaz1974]

@@trailguy yes kamote riders in English vegetable rider they ride recklessly doesn't care what happens in the road that's why they call kamote riders and drivers

[@KuyaDong042]

​@@trailguythe kamote is the equivalent of Squids rider in States.

[@markpeters9332]

Good tips, I have ridden around and in Dumaguete when I was staying at Mike’s Dive Resort in Dauin and rode once at night. I would not advise it🙈at night. Good video.

[@Tripleb6036]

Yeh agreed about riding at night. It’s a roll of the dice for sure. Ive known people killed on that Dumaguete to Dauin road at night.

[@junrafaelcagurol913]

always apply this tips when riding a motorbike and ride safe always 😊

[@Tripleb6036]

I agree Jun. Helps to keep us all safe. Ride safe too

[@alfredcapiz1278]

Nice vlog.. A very informative basic tips.. ride safe..

[@bellyacre1]

I drive a dual sport in the states. Mostly dirt roads. Wonder what it is like to drive wife and daughter on same bike in Philippines. See lot of bikers do it.

[@Tripleb6036]

I’ve done it here plenty of times on local roads. Beats a scooter which is what most people here ride.

[@bellyacre1]

@@Tripleb6036 I will be in Bais City a few days. Want to see if I can rent a dual sport bike.

[@Tripleb6036]

@@bellyacre1​​⁠I actually have a rental company here in south Cebu. We have CRF300L and Rally models as well as bigger bikes. Feel free to checkout our website and contact me if I can help. cebubigbikerental.com/

[@bellyacre1]

@@Tripleb6036 Thanks

[@CRF.Esq.]

SE Asia in general has fantastic scenic routes and interesting holiday destinations for travellers. The Philippines is a beautiful holiday destination, for the wary tourist and rider. Pinoy are friendly and respectful but poverty is endemic and opportunistic crime a reality. Public transport is not always on time or reliable, so having your own transport would give you greater flexibility and independence. Motorcycle theft is an issue, so also advisable to secure and lock bike. Would strongly advise anyone who is a foreigner to have a valid bike license, medical and hospital insurance anywhere in SE Asia. So many may not, but wear a helmet when riding.

[@Tripleb6036]

Thanks Cameron, although I’ve experienced no issues with crime here in over 5 years, like anywhere taking sensible precautions is always wise. Wearing a helmet is a must, the rules are slowly changing here to enforce their use which is good. The problem is that even a pushbike helmet is deemed okay when it offers little protection.

[@estambaylang3240]

Great info, specially riding at night and yeah riders overtaking in any sides specially in the city just to overcome heavy traffic. If there 1 thing i add, please make sure lights are working...I'm riding soon going south cebu with my new mc, might see you in the road tho 😊...

[@Tripleb6036]

Yeh I agree Estambay, no lights at night is so dangerous to everyone.

[@edensmith2426]

Great video! Have shared on Moto Travel Philippines on FB. Cheers!

[@Tripleb6036]

Thanks

[@andycappuccinocucina]

Its very pleasant to see in your video that in your area you have same standard roads and better as those roads we have in Italy. 😂

[@Tripleb6036]

Hahaha that’s disappointing from the country that makes Ducati, Ferrari and Lamborghini but it doesn’t surprise me. It’s the same in the UK now (where I’m from).

[@MasterSimpu]

My additional tips would be be aware of road holes/damaged road especialy at night or on a road which you’re not familiar with and secondly don’t be afraid if ever you have wheel punctures for there are many “vulcanizing shop” along the road.😁 Ride safe bro

[@Tripleb6036]

Haha awesome bro. I. Had those tips in my original recording but I was rambling about how awesome the vulcanising places are so cut it out as I didn't want to bore everyone lol.

[@MasterSimpu]

Haha yes those vulcanizing shops they are everywhere.. try interacting with them sometime it would be fun to watch how they would react to you because you’re speaking in English haha

[@Tripleb6036]

@@MasterSimpu haha nosebleed kaayo 😂. I hope I don't have to again although I've used them loads. I end up speaking bisaya mixed with English to them. Love those guys.

[@johnperez6006]

New riders need to practice using front and back brakes always and extreme care on wet roads.

[@richardberbisada5461]

keep sharing this awesome tips bro. and shout me out on your next vlog 🤣🤣

[@Tripleb6036]

Thanks Richard and shout out coming up

[@jamaicajones3348]

thanks very informative 😎👍🇸🇽🇯🇲

[@Chillvibes.15]

True this tips are really usefull those tips are true and applicable for our daily ride thubs up for this tips 👍 ride safe always🏍️🏍️

[@Tripleb6036]

Thanks Wency. Glad they're useful. Hopefully it helps people to stay safe.

[@PhilippinesMyParadise]

Thank you so much for your very useful tips video, please keep them coming. I have always liked your wonderful channel, and will always do! Best regards/ Ned 🤞🏍🤞

[@Tripleb6036]

Thanks Ned. Appreciate it.

[@PhilippinesMyParadise]

@@Tripleb6036 🌷🙌🌷

[@platoon1081]

I have ridden motorcycles for more than a year in the Phillipines and Mexico in both cities and country environments. The conditions are much better in the Phillipines than in Mexico.. The roads are in better condition and people more aware in the Phillipinres.

[@Tripleb6036]

Mexico must be an interesting place to ride then 😁

[@johnreyborja4005]

Nice tips for safety of all riders...godbless all riders have a nice day...please shout out...

[@Tripleb6036]

Salamat Johnrey. Shout out to come.

[@bjarkenielsen8515]

Also, don't drive above 45 - 50 km/t (28-30 miles/h) in cities. Other drivers simply just pull out in front of you or make a U-turn from the inner lane across all other lanes. Everything is geared toward slower speed and this peculiar thing that everybody expects everybody to blend with them on the road, - just like water in a stream. This requires slower speeds than you are use to in Europa and US. Blend with other traffic, it is a different game than traffic in Europe and US

[@Tripleb6036]

Good tip.

[@trailguy]

In the u.s. it’s illegal to pass in the same lane (you can not be in the same lane next to another motorcycle) except in California, and possibly one or two other states. I know my state, Virginia, is considering allowing it.

[@Tripleb6036]

Here people pass wherever they can get past you.

[@patrickmarcaida6248]

Sir shout out on your next vid. Cool levers haha god bless and rs 💪

[@Tripleb6036]

Thanks Patrick. Sure, shout out coming your way.

[@patrickmarcaida6248]

Triple B I'll wait sir haha

[@coachalexjara]

Nice vid, mate!

[@ayukyuktv4446]

OMG, you're in cebu, i didnt even notice, i have relatives in Barili,, good video sir, RS always

[@Tripleb6036]

Cool. It surprising me how many people have relatives here in Barili. I think we will have to organise a Barili ride at some point 😁. Ride safe too

[@ayukyuktv4446]

@@Tripleb6036 yeah, looking forward for it 😁

[@archiesalsbury2129]

Thanks for the tips sir? Welcome to the Philippines and happy Moto vlogging. Shout-out sir on your next vlog I'm a Moto vlogger as well Kenshin Moto vlog

[@Tripleb6036]

Thanks Kenshin. Shout out coming your way 👍

[@archiesalsbury2129]

@@Tripleb6036 hope we can have a collaboration and we will have a short ride to trans central hi way one of these days. Have you been there??! Or if you want we can go to my province in camotes island and have a nice Moto vlogging there nice beaches and very narrow road it's good to shoot for treval vlog.

[@bugsbane]

good tips. while touring how do you keep your bike safe from being stolen or vandalized? do you bring the bike into the room you're staying in? is that even possible?

[@Tripleb6036]

Honestly, In 6 years in the Philippines I’ve never found that to be an issue. People are more likely to want a photo with the bike than steal it here.

[@davidjackson7715]

I've never had a problem but I'm based on the island of Palawan for 8 years, I've left my bag and helmet on the bike while I'm in the shops and parked my bike at many hotels in the city and in the country, never had a problem . Not saying it can't happen but I don't worry about it as I would in my own country 😊

[@mitfull]

Good evening from sunny blighty, enjoyed the vlog 👍

[@Tripleb6036]

Haha good morning from the Philippines. Thanks for your comment. You managing to get out on your bike there now?

[@mitfull]

@@Tripleb6036 not for a couple of weeks now but I usually ride through winter as long as its not icy or snowing

[@Tripleb6036]

@@mitfull ah good man. I might be heading back to blighty next year. I'm gonna have to toughen up to get used to winter riding again.

[@martinhall932]

"Some of the bus drivers drive a little bit abruptly..." And some of them drive like they are in the seat of a race car.

[@Tripleb6036]

Haha that’s putting it politely regarding the bus drivers. I’d say some of them drive like absolute idiots with no respect for the safety of their passengers. Some locals told me the reason is that a lot of the bus drivers use certain substances to stay awake.

[@jonalileonardo3271]

ride safe sir 😊 god bless

[@biyahenithirdy]

another useful tips 😍😍😍 thanks Lodi

[@Tripleb6036]

Thanks Thirdy.

[@FastDB10]

where are motorcycles on rent available in Manila? I guess any 300cc-400cc would be good considering the roads and traffic

[@Tripleb6036]

No idea. Your best bet is to search Facebook as most businesses use FB here and not actual websites.

[@davidjackson7715]

I wouldn't bother with anything above 125 or 150 , as that is what most of the economy is based on here , it can be done but it's more economical to go that way , depends on your budget

[@coachalexjara]

For a beginner, how’s the Kawasaki Rouser 200 - small disposable sports-looking bike?

[@davidjackson7715]

All good but most of the bikes here are 125 cc and everything is geared around that , it's enough power to be suitable for the traffic and conditions, if you want anything else it costs more money, it can be done but it's not economical if you're on a budget . I'm running a Royal Enfield classic 350 here and it's definitely worth the little bit extra expense but I live here. Depends on what you want ,😊

[@giganticprogram614]

Useful tips!

[@erms1101]

Its helpful and safety tip sir to all rider ..godbless

[@Tripleb6036]

Salamat Hernie. Ride safe

[@erms1101]

Welcome sir ..ikaw din po ride safe sa lahat ng mga vlog mo sir..

[@Butwillitwork]

Any tip for riding during monsoons? I understands it's pretty hot in July and there's plenty of rain... wear full riding gear or just something for the rain?

[@Tripleb6036]

I’ve done both full gear and just T-shirt on an epic Camiguin-cebu-dumaguete ride before. It all depends how long your riding for but safety says full gear, comfort says less so you dry out quicker. Just don’t ride in really bad weather on a scooter. I had an XR125 at the time and the tires and height were a great benefit driving through flooded roads that a scooter couldn’t have got through.

[@janelynlucero6375]

Come and visit cebu city master, let's go ride with us there at Balamban there in Trancentral Hi-way

[@Tripleb6036]

Thanks Janelyn. That would be cool. Do you ride with a group?

[@janelynlucero6375]

Yes we are , we do have a group which is the Rouser Group of the Philippines and our group are open for any type of motorcycle 😊

[@janelynlucero6375]

There in Balamban there's a lot of riders there, especially big bikes

[@emmanuellicup]

That is totally correct... God bless

[@Tripleb6036]

Thanks Emannuel. If you have any other tips feel free to add them here. Its useful for anyone watching. Ride safe.

[@janelynlucero6375]

Ride safe always master!

[@crunchied8]

I am wondering about buying a bike in the Philippines like a suzuki V strom 650 thanks

[@Tripleb6036]

The VStrom 650 is available good choice here. It really depends on the type of riding you’re going to do. If it’s just touring then you can’t go wrong with the VStrom as it’s reliable and very comfortable. It’s easy to rack up the miles on. If you’re going to do more off the beaten path riding then I prefer the Honda CRF 300 Rally for that as it’s so light and easier to manage off-road. It’s still quick enough to pass traffic here unless you’re on the expressways in Luzon.

[@crunchied8]

@@Tripleb6036 what about the Africa twin is it too pricey in the Philippines i am hoping to visit the Philippines soonish

[@Tripleb6036]

@ I had a 2021 Africa twin the base model 1100cc. No doubt it’s a great bike but I hated the electronics on it and sold it. They’re not overpriced here, I think around 950,000 Pesos for the base model. You really don’t need all that power on the roads here. Saying that, I have a VStrom 800DE now and really like it. Cost is 699.000 pesos new I think. You can also get the Tenere 700 here, priced around the same as the VStrom 800DE. Honda also have the Transalp which is a little cheaper at around 600,000 pesos. One to maybe consider is the CF Moto 450MT which is readily available and only around 330,000 pesos. FYI the Honda Rally is only 300,000 Pesos here which is much cheaper than I’d pay in the UK or Europe for it. Having owned loads of bikes here if I could only pick one for everything it would be the Rally or the L model. They can be serviced virtually everywhere, parts are easily available and they’re cheap to buy and run plus light compared with the others. It’s not just buying the bike you have to consider. Getting parts for more expensive bikes can be slow, servicing has to be done in the main cities plus the weight of them makes it less fun exploring off-road and on tracks compared with the smaller Hondas.

[@crunchied8]

@@Tripleb6036 i might be going 2nd hand as well to buy 1

[@loyddaez2146]

Don't speed up because you know someone will surprise you in the front of you lol

[@johndayvalcorza6574]

Nice tips sir 😊😊😊

[@Tripleb6036]

Thanks Johnday.

[@gcjohntoledo]

Facts. Ride safe

[@Tripleb6036]

Thanks you too Teng.

[@rjoetting7594]

The areas I ride wildlife are the biggest danger, whitetail deer, turkey, foxes, groundhogs, coyotes, etc.. Especially deer 🦌 if you see one cross the road you can almost bet three or four more will jump in the road before you get there. My personal bikes are Harley-Davidson, 1978 flh Bobber, 1991 springer softtail, and a 1992 electra glide ultra classic. I'm planning on retiring in the Philippines, at 63 ,that's a year and half from now and I will bring the old shovelhead with me, its easy to work on with hand tools with no special tools, and as long as I keep up the maintenance it's been very reliable. It's also a stripped down to a bare minimum bobber, small fenders, smaller seats, no hard bags, no fairing, or windshield. Kick start only, and magneto ignition (doesn't need a battery to start on run) simple cv carburetor (Chinese) easy to replace and rebuild. 80 cubic inch 1981 motor all stock internals. Four-speed ratchet top transmission. You can literally bring almost every tool you need to keep it running in a small handlebar bag. Along with spare plugs, condenser, and points. Sorry, I didn't mean to write a complete article about it. Most of your tips are common sense and and everyone should be aware of these things, especially if riding a motorcycle anywhere in the world, but I have seen a lack of common sense in the last several years, and I hope your video makes more people aware of the possible dangers of riding. I forgot to add that my shovelhead is up-sweep straight pipe, so everything knows it's there, hahaha

[@Tripleb6036]

Good luck for your retirement plans. Have you decided which area are you going to settle in? Swap all that wildlife for street dogs and middle aged ladies and apply the same common sense and you’ll be fine. The hanks for commenting.

[@rjoetting7594]

@TripleB6036 I've been doing my research and one expat, suggested northern Luzon, I'm kind of a loner and really don't like cities or even small towns, the closest town to me now is 12 miles away and it's population is only 3,000 and I stay away from it as much as possible, except for groceries and picking up the occasional pizza to take home.

[@davidfleet]

@@rjoetting7594I totally get that. I lasted one month in Cebu city and told my wife we have to get out of here to the province which is where I am now and I’d like a quieter location still. I always liked Negros. Might be worth a look and cheaper than Luzon too. Plenty of accessible natural attractions. Less developed than Luzon although I’ve not been north of Manila. Away from the typhoons too for the most part.

[@acobbler449]

What do you need to please the police, if you get pulled over ( International drivers license or pay them cash ? )

[@Tripleb6036]

It depends if you own or are renting. If you own the bike then drivers license (international one is fine if you’re not in the country any longer than 6 months). Registration papers and the correct plate number on the bike.

[@davidjackson7715]

International drivers license is fine , registration paperwork is essential

[@noygringo9143]

New sub here. Keep it up dre

[@Tripleb6036]

salamat

[@steve00alt70]

Tip 1 riding a manual bike in Phillippines is actually less practical more expensive and more prone to accidents than an automatic scooter hence why you see 98% of phillipinos riding a scooter instead or in Asia in general.

[@Tripleb6036]

Less practical, yes, more expensive, definitely, more prone to accidents I’d disagree. Bigger tyres, better brakes and more power all make it easier to avoid accidents. I’d also say finances have a lot to do with vehicle choice.

[@nwmsfb3118]

​@@Tripleb6036 - Finances are far away the #1 reason imho. I also think how easy it is to "twist and go" on a scooter is the #2 reason. You're totally correct about how much safer motorcycles are then scooters. Those small wheels and lousy wooden feeling brakes, etc are far more unsafe than a motorcycle with a far better suspension, higher height/visibility, etc. Adding accessory lights to either is helpful. Btw, the "Underbone" bikes like the Suzuki Raider have a cult following, so for those that want to learn how to ride, shift, etc there can be fun for a somewhat reasonable price. People do forget that it's only cheap in the Philippines for foreigners. For locals all of this is expensive. What's crazy is how ridiculously overpriced the financing for bikes are if you attempt to pay at the local bike shop instead of cash. It's highway robbery in the USA but in the Philippines it's astronomically high if you don't pay by cash for a new motorcycle. Regarding used bikes it seems to be "the wild west there." When I go there again I'll hope to either pay cash for a new bike or ideally get to know someone well that I can trust and buy the bike off of them after renting one for a while.

[@kingwolf4859]

Where from

[@trailguy]

Are different sized bikes available there? I heard that 60-80kph is the max there, even on long rides. Even a 250 might be too big, but 150cc scooters might get overworked on long rides. Are there any 200cc 5 speed bikes? Or even 3 or 4 speed? I think that would be ideal, unless you are a large person, maybe. Just wondering, I’m thinking of retiring there.

[@Tripleb6036]

There are plenty of different bikes available here in the cities. Anything over 150cc is considered a ‘big bike’. Scooters upto 200cc, plenty of choice of 150cc bikes and scooters. I’ve had the following bikes here just to give an example of what’s available, Hong CRF 150L, crf 250L, I just picked up a CRF 300L, KTM 390 Duke, Kawasaki Ninja 650, Kawasaki Z650, Suzuki VStrom 650XT, Honda Africa Twin CRF1000L. You can also pick up something cheap like a Kawasaki/Bahaj Dominar 400 for quite cheap. Something around the 250cc mark is perfect here unless you’re going on the expressways around Manila. I only have the CRF300L now and it’s plenty powerful enough for here and can go anywhere. 60-80KPH what, speed limit or that’s the fastest bikes?

[@trailguy]

@@Tripleb6036 60-80 is what I heard is typically the limit, excep5 on some expressways which only allow 400+xc bikes, I heard. Is that enforced? I rode a 250ninja 2,000 km at over 130kph on a major interstate highway once with no trouble in the usa. It seems strange that the Philippines would make it illegal. Anyway, I’m aware that even a 115cc scooter can easily exceed 80kph, so I was thinking it might even be better for the motor if it was challenged a little every now and then, that’s why I’m thinking of getting something smaller than I had originally planned. I have wondered if I should buy a 150 and if I want to take a long trip once or twice a year, I should rent a 200+ bike. Is that sensible? How much would it cost to rent a bike for a month and put 2000 km on it? Should I just buy one?

[@Tripleb6036]

@@trailguy I assume it is an enforced rule on the expressways as they are often toll roads and unless your bike is registered as 400cc or more you won’t be allowed on. For example though, a KTM Duke 390 which I believe is 373cc is officially registered as a 400cc and is therefor expressway legal. I agree the rule makes little sense when a ninja 250 would out accelerate most cars here and easily cruise at 80KPH plus, I had one here too. Unfortunately I have no idea how much it would be to rent a bigger bike here as it is not something that is readily available where I am. I did think of setting up a big bike rental store here but decided against it in the end. There is talk of lowering the 400cc limit but I’m not sure how that is progressing.

[@trailguy]

@@Tripleb6036 thanks, so much, this was an excellent reply to my email. I’m just curious, where are you? I would expect that mid sized to large cities, especially ones with lots of foreigners, would do pretty well renting bigger bikes. Dumaguete, comes to mind. Thanks again!

[@Tripleb6036]

@@trailguy you’re welcome. I’m now in the province in Cebu but funnily enough I was in Dumaguete when I had the idea to rent big bikes. Had the domain name etc ready to go but decided the hassles of insurance etc made it not worth it in the end. I also find that a lot of foreigners here really only use a scooter and the ones who like big bikes generally just buy themselves one. I dont think the tourism market would be particularly fruitful either as again most tourists here are travelling on the cheap and just go for the scooter option. I suspect most of the traveller type tourists have never ridden a proper motorbike and find it easy to just hop on an automatic scooter. I just decided to keep bikes for personal use and enjoyment. I’ll be travelling around the Philippines on various bikes in 2023 (mainly a CRF300L and a CRF1100L) and doing a video series here. Until now I’ve always been time restricted due to running my own business but sold the business this year so can dedicate more time to my channel now.

[@AvenueBoyVlogs]

That is true, here in the UK, hahaha.... Very organized traffic here, "highway code" 😂😂😂

[@Tripleb6036]

Haha yep but so many speed cameras. Where did you ride so far? You done the Cat and Fiddle route up in the Peak District?

[@AvenueBoyVlogs]

@@Tripleb6036 not yet, i'm still trying to get my full A. But will definitely try those ones out in summer.

[@kaloyrelleta5611]

there is a saying that "if you can drive in the philippines, you can drive anywhere in the world", but i have to disagree to this coz how most drivers on philippine highways are uneducated in terms of driving. have to blame the system though, coz of how easy it is to obtain a driver's license and how lax our traffic rules being implemented.

[@blo0dyc0rpse]

make and new video about the rules

[@Tripleb6036]

As soon as I know all the rules I will 😃

[@kingwolf4859]

Wellcome ti philipines

[@Tripleb6036]

Thanks. I’m back in the U.K. now but will be back in the Philippines later in the year.

[@raymarkvillano8287]

Are you fil am sir?

[@Tripleb6036]

Hi Mark, No I’m not. I’m British. My daughter is FilUK

[@ameermotovlog6929]

Go to mindanao sumday sir

[@Tripleb6036]

I plan to. I hear great things about the roads there 😁

[@ameermotovlog6929]

Just inform me if you'll be coming here. Hehe so i can teach u where are the good places here in mindanao

[@demon817]

Bring a riding jacket full face helmet gloves and boots, just in case one of the 6 tips hits you.

[@Tripleb6036]

Haha good point. Sadly a push bike helmet counts for something here. I value my head a little more than that although I’m not sure why.

[@SerRJ]

ridesafe sir.. #TopFan

[@Srichardson64]

Bring a tank...got it ;)

[@Tripleb6036]

Maybe not a tank but there’s plenty of ww2 era jeeps here 😁

[@vilmavlog3026]

Hilas man!

[@Tripleb6036]

Why?

[@tyrone-tydavis5858]

Expect every driver to cut you off and to turn in front of you.

[@Tripleb6036]

Haha, I expect that everywhere I ride, then I never get caught out.