How to Handle Two Motorbikes Riding Side by Side
Riding a motorbike in Saigon means dealing with many different traffic situations. One situation that can feel uncomfortable, especially for newer riders, is seeing two motorbikes riding side by side.
They may be friends travelling together, talking while riding, or simply sharing the road without realizing how much space they are taking up. For the rider behind them, this can make the available road space feel much narrower.
The key is not to rush. When you see two motorbikes riding side by side, create enough space, reduce your speed when necessary, and give yourself time to react.
Notice the Situation Early
The sooner you recognize two motorbikes riding side by side, the more options you have.
Look further ahead rather than focusing only on the vehicles immediately in front of you. You may also notice cars approaching from behind, parked vehicles, pedestrians, traffic lights, or road hazards that could reduce the available space.
If the road is becoming crowded, adjust your speed early instead of waiting until you are directly behind the two motorcycles.
Do Not Squeeze Through a Small Gap
One of the biggest mistakes is trying to pass through a gap that looks just large enough.
When two motorbikes riding side by side leave only a small amount of space, it is better not to force your way through. The gap can quickly disappear if one rider moves sideways, avoids a pothole, or changes direction.
A few extra seconds of waiting are usually better than making a movement that leaves you with no room to react.
Keep a Safe Following Distance
If you are behind two motorbikes riding side by side, give yourself additional distance.
One rider may suddenly brake, move sideways, avoid a road hazard, or prepare to turn. With more following distance, you have more time to slow down smoothly.
Following too closely removes your options, especially in busy Saigon traffic.
Watch Both Motorbikes
Do not assume that both riders will continue in exactly the same position.
When you see two motorbikes riding side by side, watch both motorcycles and look for changes in speed and direction.
One rider may move toward the left while the other continues forward. One may slow down to talk, while the other moves ahead. Their positions can change within seconds.
You do not need to predict exactly what they will do. Instead, observe their movement and prepare for it.
Be Careful Near Intersections
Intersections require extra attention because several types of road users can appear at the same time.
When two motorbikes riding side by side approach an intersection, there may also be:
- Cars turning
- Motorbikes crossing
- Pedestrians
- Changing traffic lights
- Larger vehicles blocking your view
Reduce your speed and prepare for unexpected movement. Do not automatically follow the riders ahead simply because they continued through the intersection.
Make your own decision based on the traffic around you.
Check Before Moving Sideways
Sometimes you may decide that changing your position is necessary. However, do not suddenly move around two motorbikes riding side by side without checking your surroundings.
Use your mirrors and check the area beside you before changing position. Another motorcycle may already be travelling alongside you.
When road space is limited, even a small sideways movement can create a dangerous situation.
Use Your Horn Carefully
A horn can be useful for making another road user aware of your presence, but it should not be treated as a way to control traffic.
If appropriate, a short warning may help a rider notice you. However, repeatedly using the horn out of frustration does not make the situation safer.
If you encounter two motorbikes riding side by side, continue to manage your own speed and distance rather than depending on the other riders to immediately move.
Sometimes Waiting Is the Safest Choice
You do not always need to pass.
Waiting can be the better option when the road is wet, traffic is heavy, pedestrians are nearby, or two motorbikes riding side by side are moving unpredictably.
Traffic can change quickly. One rider may slow down, another vehicle may turn away, or the road may suddenly become wider.
A gap that is not safe now may become much better a few seconds later.
If You Pass, Make Sure There Is Enough Space
When the road conditions allow a safe pass, do not rush the maneuver.
Before changing position, consider motorcycles, cars, larger vehicles, pedestrians, road hazards, and possible turns.
The goal is not simply to get ahead of two motorbikes riding side by side. The goal is to complete the movement without forcing another road user to suddenly brake or change direction.
Always follow the traffic rules and only pass when it is legal and safe to do so.
Rain Makes Everything More Difficult
Rain can make a situation involving two motorbikes riding side by side more challenging.
Visibility may decrease, road surfaces can become slippery, and riders may suddenly change position to avoid puddles or find shelter.
Give yourself more time and distance in wet conditions. If the weather becomes too difficult to ride safely, finding a suitable place to stop can be the better choice.
Watch for Road Hazards
Do not assume the riders ahead are moving randomly.
Sometimes two motorbikes riding side by side may suddenly change position because they have noticed a pothole, uneven surface, roadwork, standing water, or another obstacle.
Look beyond the motorcycles and scan the road ahead. If you notice a hazard, reduce your speed and prepare for the riders to move around it.
Remember the Pedestrians
The space beside two motorbikes riding side by side may not actually be free.
Pedestrians near shops, restaurants, schools, bus stops, and markets can suddenly move closer to the road. Someone may also walk around a parked vehicle or motorcycle.
When pedestrians are close to the road, slow down and expect movement rather than assuming the available space will remain clear.
Do Not Let Frustration Control Your Riding
It can be frustrating when two motorbikes riding side by side slow your progress.
However, getting angry will not make the situation safer. You cannot control what other road users decide to do, but you can control your own speed, position, braking, attention, and following distance.
Staying calm gives you better judgment and more time to react.
Look for the Space That Is Developing
Good riding is not always about finding an immediate gap.
Instead, watch how the traffic is changing. One rider may slow down, another may move ahead, or a car may turn away. Suddenly, the road can become much more open.
When dealing with two motorbikes riding side by side, patience can create a safer opportunity without forcing a risky maneuver.
Build Your Traffic Awareness
If you are still becoming comfortable with Saigon traffic, practise basic riding skills on quieter roads first.
Focus on:
- Looking further ahead
- Smooth braking
- Maintaining a predictable position
- Checking your mirrors
- Controlling your speed
- Understanding the movement of surrounding traffic
These basic habits can make situations such as two motorbikes riding side by side much easier to manage.
The Simple Rule: Do Not Force the Space
When you see two motorbikes riding side by side, remember a few simple principles:
Look ahead. Slow down when needed. Keep your distance. Do not squeeze through a small gap. Check before changing position. Wait when the situation is unclear.
You do not need to control what other riders do. You only need to control your own riding.
If you are renting a motorbike in Saigon, getting comfortable with your motorcycle before entering busy traffic can also make a big difference. A proper test ride allows you to become familiar with the brakes, throttle, steering, and overall feel of the bike.
At JAN’S MOTORBIKE, customers can take a free test ride before deciding on a motorcycle. During the rental, personal group chat support is also available for maintenance questions, bike problems, and other rental-related support.
With a motorcycle in good condition, the right equipment, and support when you need it, navigating Saigon can feel much easier.
Final Thoughts
Encountering two motorbikes riding side by side is a normal part of riding in busy city traffic. The safest response is not to rush or force your way through.
Stay patient, maintain enough space, observe both riders, and wait for the traffic situation to become clearer.
Stay calm. Leave space. Ride smart.
Contact JAN’S MOTORBIKE: +84909 29 0078 (WhatsApp,Zalo)
Find Us: 5, 5th Street An Phu Ward, District 2
Check for full available motorbike HERE.
