Motorcycle Parking Shortage | 3 Recommended Motorcycle Parking Apps

1. High Demand and Low Supply

The primary reason for the difficulty in finding motorcycle parking is the insufficient number of parking spaces. As of February 2023, Hong Kong had 74,815 licensed motorcycles but only 38,563 motorcycle parking spaces, with only 11,654 of these being roadside spots. The ratio of motorcycle parking spaces to licensed vehicles is just 0.52, compared to 1.11 for private car parking spaces, indicating a significant shortfall.

2. Abandoned Vehicles Reducing Space Availability

Motorcycle parking spots are free, which has led to many motorcycles occupying spaces for extended periods. According to the Road Traffic (Parking) Regulations, anyone who parks a vehicle in a parking spot for more than 24 hours is committing an offense, with a maximum fine of HK$2,000. Unfortunately, many motorcycles, including those with expired licenses, are left abandoned in parking spots. Handling these long-parked motorcycles is cumbersome, as the police typically use chalk marks to indicate the parking spot and only issue a ticket after confirming the vehicle has not moved within 24 hours.

3. Lack of Hourly Motorcycle Parking in Private Lots

According to government documents, private parking lots offer over 20,000 motorcycle spaces, but most are available only on a monthly rental basis. There are very few private lots offering hourly rental for motorcycles, and some even prohibit motorcycles from entering for short-term parking. As a result, finding an hourly parking spot is challenging, making motorcycle riders feel like "rats crossing the street."

To address the shortage of motorcycle parking spaces, the Transport and Logistics Bureau has proposed the following measures:

• Utilize space under elevated bridges to create motorcycle parking spots.
• Open more government building parking spaces to the public during non-office hours.
• Explore suitable roadside locations for motorcycle parking, depending on traffic conditions.
• Apply the principle of "multiple uses for one location" to provide public motorcycle parking in suitable government, institutional, or community facilities and public recreational areas.
• Implement legislation to mandate the deregistration of abandoned vehicles.

The Lands Department is gathering evidence related to abandoned motorcycles, including records from the Transport Department and other necessary information. After consulting with the Department of Justice, it may consider prosecution in cases with sufficient evidence to strengthen deterrence against illegal abandonment.

Additionally, the Transport Department plans to amend regulations to optimize vehicle registration and licensing. It is proposed that vehicle owners must renew the license for registered vehicles that have been unlicensed for over two years, dismantle or permanently remove such vehicles from Hong Kong, or apply for an exemption. This new regulation is expected to be implemented in 2024 after the necessary amendments and system improvements.

Additionally, the Transport Department plans to amend regulations to optimize vehicle registration and licensing. It is proposed that vehicle owners must renew the license for registered vehicles that have been unlicensed for over two years, dismantle or permanently remove such vehicles from Hong Kong, or apply for an exemption. This new regulation is expected to be implemented in 2024 after the necessary amendments and system improvements.

1. Google Maps

Most smartphones come with Google Maps pre-installed. Simply search for "motorcycle parking" on Google Maps to view nearby parking spots. The app’s street view and navigation features make it easy to use.

2. MotoPark

MotoPark shows both motorcycle parking spots and parking lots, including their locations, fees, and contact numbers. It also provides photos of the parking lots and navigation, which is helpful for riders unfamiliar with the area. Additionally, it offers real-time traffic updates, quick snapshots, and gas station locations.

3. Hong Kong Travel Easy

This app allows you to search for roadside motorcycle parking spots by street name. You can simplify the map display by filtering out other vehicle types, making it easier for riders to view available parking spaces.