15 Secrets to enjoy motorcycle riding in Mexico

Who knew motorcycle riding in Mexico could be so much fun? -Tom White

Many riders are surprised by how good the motorcycle riding in Mexico is.  We all know Mexico is a great country for overland travel. It’s got a well-developed highway system and wonderful cities and places to visit throughout the country.

Motorists and truckers mostly like motorcyclists and think you’re cool!  Treating them with mutual respect makes for a more pleasurable journey.

Riding a motorcycle is different from riding in the USA or Canada. Americans and Canadians are sticklers for rules and right-of-way. In Mexico, driving priority is primarily based on who is bigger and who is there first.

Mexican Insurance Store
A group of riders stopped to snap a quick photo at sunset.

While not exhaustive, these secrets will enhance your journey and increase the number of friends you make.

  1. Wave to military vehicles, truckers, children in cars, drivers when you pass them, and of course other motorcyclists. A simple wave or better yet, a peace sign is a perfect way to demonstrate respect and mutual camaraderie.  Even wave to cops.  You’ll be surprised how often a wave gets you a smile and wave back.
  2. Passing is an art in Mexico. If you are on a two-lane road and you want to pass, flick on your left-turn blinker.  This lets drivers ahead know your intention. They will often pull over to the right a little bit to allow you to pass ahead. If a vehicle wishes to pass you, do the same. Move over to the right and let them.
  3. When passing trucks, also use your left-turn blinker as you approach and pass. This alerts them you are there and keeps you visible to them.  Do this even when you are in the passing lane and they are in the right lane.
  4. Never pass trucks or vehicles on the right shoulder. This is because it’s the first place they will go to make room for emergency vehicles or to let others pass.
  5. SLOW DOWN when approaching and within a town or city! This is very important for several reasons. There are often bus stops, gas stations, and topes (speed bumps) as you approach towns. This is also where both Policía Municipal and Policía Federal like to wait with radar guns to catch speeders. Slow it way down.

     

    Pro Tip: Enjoy motorcycle riding in Mexico but don’t skimp on Mexican insurance.  Get a Full-Coverage policy from CHUBB Platinum.  The amount of coverage is phenomenal including your helmet, gear, and motorcycle accessories.

  6. If you are at or below half of a tank, fill it up at the next gas station. The next one may be many kilometers down the road.
  7. Take signs that read ‘Aguas’ and ‘Curva Peligrosa’ seriously. ‘Aguas’ means ‘Heads up’ or ‘Pay Attention.’ Also before many corners that are deemed ‘peligrosa,’ look for rumble strips.  These can seriously affect traction and control.
  8. Be friendly at gas stations. People will come up to you and ask the size of your engine, how much it costs, how fast it goes, and if you like Mexico. These are very typical questions and don’t feel weird about answering them.  Smile and be gracious with your answers.
  9. DO NOT RIDE AT NIGHT. This is a big one. When riding toward the end of the day, hold your hand out with three fingers showing. If the sun is at or below your fingers from the horizon, you have 15-20 minutes to find a place to stay the night. Do not try to continue. Road hazards, livestock, and in some regions, criminal activity become acute at night. Find a hotel and enjoy a good dinner.
  10. Lane Sharing and lane filtering are OK, and drivers are typically quite good about it. Don’t abuse the privilege drivers give you to pass. Do it safely and discretely. Be sure to wave and thank the drivers who make room for you.
  11. Drink about half a liter of water every time you stop. Many riders crash and suffer significant injuries and sometimes fatalities due to dehydration. A simple way to tell if you are properly hydrated is that you need to use the restroom at each stop and your urine is a light color. The darker it is, the more dehydrated you are.
  12. If you see a rider on the side of the road or a motorist in need, stop if it is safe, to offer help. There may not be mobile reception, and you may be the angel of the day. They will stop for you if you are in trouble, too.
  13. When motorcycle riding in Mexico, keep your chin up and always scan in the distance.  Look for hazards, errant drivers, debris, accidents, and animals. Doing so will give you plenty of time to take evasive action and not become a bigger problem. Be careful not to daydream when riding.
  14. If you have them, flash your emergency lights to let other drivers or riders know of oncoming hazards or sudden stops.  Flashing your brake light also works to alert drivers.
  15. In windy curving roads and especially blind corners, take it easy and stay to the right. Large vehicles including buses and trucks will take those corners wide. Give yourself plenty of time and options to remain safe and happy.

Again, this is not an exhaustive list, but this should give you an excellent primer on riding safely and enjoyably in Mexico.

14 Comments. Leave new

  • Dayna Beckett
    October 9, 2017 5:54 pm

    Buy your Mexican insurance and start the fun. Mexico is a blast with colorful Fall events and festivals.

  • Lindsy Partridge
    October 12, 2017 6:08 pm

    Whether it’s October or a different month of the year, anyone can be in Mexico and have a great vacation. As long as you’re insured, you don’t have to worry about travelling long hours.

  • Everyone driving in Mexico really does need Mexican insurance for their car.

  • If you are entering Mexico for the weekend, it’s great to know $1,000 in towing is available at no extra cost.

  • Beata Sander
    June 15, 2018 11:36 pm

    Before hitting the Mexico road, why not get some motorcycle safety tips from your insurance provider? Surely, it helps protect yourself and others as well.

  • Lashawnda Marin
    November 9, 2018 5:17 pm

    The many benefits of GPS system will definitely give help in terms of the driver’s direction, road maps and other things.

  • Rosana Fahnestock
    February 4, 2020 5:10 pm

    Motorcycle riders find it as a therapeutic option that reduces some stress. Motorcycle riding a good therapy that is considered by many.

  • Having a quick medical checkup prior to traveling in Mexico is part of a successful journey. No one wants to reach Mexico only to find out that they need to be treated on vacation.

  • If you’re a driver or a car owner and you want to see Mexico, the first thing to do is secure Mexico car insurance.

  • Natashia Sipes
    May 23, 2022 6:19 pm

    The best month to visit Mexico and get married is usually from October up to July. Most couples who want to see the best for their wedding event normally choose these months.

  • Jerrica Ash
    July 5, 2022 6:56 pm

    Going to Mexico knows no limitations. Anyone can explore the city with its open air markets.

  • Nicky Vincent
    July 27, 2022 9:32 pm

    On toll roads and freeways, driving to Mexico is much like the driving activities in the US. Mexican auto insurance is the only valid type of car insurance accepted in Mexico.

  • Lilly Gallardo
    August 4, 2022 6:45 pm

    Mexico offers many areas for off-road driving. It can be the perfect place for rookie adventurists and off-road motorists. The general rule, though, is to exercise more cautions and balance.

  • Many motorists say that riding a motorcycle is relaxing. You can feel peaceful and comfortable, either you’re doing it solo or with a partner. The comfort is satisfying.

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