Can't find a parking spot for your motorcycle in a rental property? Here's how to find one based on engine displacement!

Finding a parking spot for a motorcycle in a rental property can be quite challenging. It's one thing if it's just a hopeful wish, but for those who plan to use their motorcycle for commuting or school, or for those whose greatest joy is touring with their beloved bike, the struggle to find a suitable property can be immense. In this article, we'll explain the key points to consider when searching for a motorcycle parking spot in a rental property and provide tips on how to find one based on the engine displacement of your bike. We hope this helps all the motorcycle enthusiasts out there.

Why is it so difficult to find a motorcycle parking spot in a rental property? It seems there are many cases where there is a bicycle parking area, but motorcycles are not allowed. Let's first explain the reasons for this.

(1) Legal regulations based on the type of motorcycle

One of the main reasons why it is difficult to find a rental property with a motorcycle parking spot is the legal regulations based on the type of motorcycle.

 
These regulations include differences in traffic rules and licenses under the Road Traffic Act, and differences in registration and maintenance under the Road Transport Vehicle Act, which are all classified in detail according to engine displacement.

 
Among these, the vehicle classification by the Road Traffic Act is important for motorcycle parking spots in rental properties. Motorized bicycles with an engine displacement of 50cc or less are not classified as motor vehicles, while motorcycles with an engine displacement of more than 50cc are considered motor vehicles.

 
Motorcycles do not require a parking certificate regardless of engine displacement, making it less of a topic for debate. However, "motorcycles with an engine displacement of more than 50cc are considered motor vehicles and must be parked in designated parking spaces."

 
On the other hand, motorcycles with an engine displacement between 50cc and 125cc are defined as class 2 motorized bicycles under the Road Transport Vehicle Act. Many of them look very similar to motorized bicycles with an engine displacement of less than 50cc.

 
License plates are color-coded: white for 50cc or less, yellow for 51cc to 90cc, and pink for 91cc to 125cc. However, if you're not familiar with motorcycles, it can be difficult to distinguish between them.

 
For these reasons, especially in small rental apartments or buildings, it is common not to have designated motorcycle parking spaces.

(2) Issues That Frequently Arise

Another significant factor is the high likelihood of problems when providing motorcycle parking in rental properties.

 
1.Noise Complaints from Neighbors
Noise from motorcycles often leads to complaints from nearby residents.

 
2.Abandoned Broken Motorcycles
There are frequent issues with tenants leaving behind broken motorcycles when they move out, causing disposal problems.

 
3.Damage to and from Motorcycles
There are incidents where bicycles are blown over by the wind and damage motorcycles, and conversely, motorcycles are blown over and damage bicycles or other property.

 
4.Children Injured by Hot Motorcycles
Small children may get injured by the residual heat from parked motorcycles.

 
Due to these potential conflicts among tenants and complaints from neighbors, many landlords choose not to provide motorcycle parking in rental properties.

We've discussed why it's difficult to find motorcycle parking in rental properties, but let's now delve into whether you can park your motorcycle or scooter in the designated bicycle parking area.

(1) Only 50cc or Less Scooters Might Be Allowed

As previously mentioned, motorcycles with engine displacements over 50cc are classified as "automobiles" under Japanese traffic law, and thus cannot be parked in bicycle parking areas. However, scooters with engine displacements of 50cc or less are sometimes allowed to park in these areas.

(2) You Must Obtain Permission

Even if you are parking a scooter with an engine displacement of 50cc or less, you must obtain permission from the landlord or the property management company. Unauthorized parking is strictly prohibited.

While it can be challenging, here’s a guide on how to efficiently find rental properties with motorcycle parking, categorized by engine displacement. Let's start with scooters of 50cc or less.

(1) Standard Search with Motorcycle Parking Filter

When searching for properties that allow parking for scooters of 50cc or less, simply use the "motorcycle parking available" filter on real estate portal sites. This filter will help you find properties that specifically cater to your needs. Most of these listings will only accommodate scooters, with parking fees ranging from free to around 1,000 to 3,000 yen per month.

For example, a search on the real estate portal SUUMO for studio apartments and 1K apartments in Tokyo’s Jonan area (Meguro, Shinagawa, Setagaya, and Ota wards) yielded 174,060 listings without filters. Adding the "motorcycle parking available" filter reduced the number to 34,224 listings, meaning 19.6% of the properties had motorcycle parking available.

With Motorcycle Parking	Standard Search

Reference: SUUMO Property Search (Survey date: 2023.03.04)

(2) Negotiating in Properties with Bicycle Parking

Even if a property doesn't explicitly have a designated motorcycle parking area, you might be able to negotiate parking for your scooter if you notice other motorcycles parked during your property visit. While this isn't guaranteed—there could be unauthorized parking or no available spaces—it's worth asking the landlord or property manager if parking is permitted.

 
By understanding these points and knowing where to look, you can increase your chances of finding a rental property that accommodates your motorcycle parking needs.

Let's discuss how to find motorcycle parking for rentals. This time, we'll focus on motorcycles with engine displacements over 50cc but not exceeding 250cc.

(1) Most Properties Only Accommodate Small Scooters

Most rental properties that allow motorcycle parking cater only to scooters with engine displacements of 50cc or less. Considering that such properties accounted for only 19.6% of the total, searching for properties on portal sites that accommodate mid-size motorcycles can be quite challenging.

(2) Consider Searching for Parking Separately

In this case, it might be more efficient to search for motorcycle parking separately before looking for nearby rental properties. There are recommended sites where you can search for monthly motorcycle parking lots. These sites not only allow searches by station name or address but also provide maps for convenience. Additionally, they often include videos of the parking facilities, allowing you to assess factors like management, roofing, and slopes. While it's common to search for parking spaces after finding a property for cars, the opposite is true for motorcycles. Therefore, prioritize finding motorcycle parking first before looking for nearby rental properties.

External link: bikepark homepage

(3) For Those Concerned About Properties Without Motorcycle Parking

For those who are still uneasy about properties without designated motorcycle parking, self-searching is nearly impossible. In such cases, it's advisable to leave it to real estate agents. Real estate agents can leverage their extensive databases to find properties managed by companies or landlords that offer parking for mid-size motorcycles. When making such requests, be sure to specify the make and engine displacement of your motorcycle. However, as mentioned earlier, the number of such properties is quite limited, and it requires considerable effort on the part of real estate agents. Therefore, it's essential to consider the options provided by agents seriously.

Finally, let's discuss how to find motorcycle parking for rentals for motorcycles with engine displacements exceeding 250cc.

(1) Opt for Garage Houses

Motorcycles with engine displacements exceeding 250cc are considered luxury vehicles. Especially with engine displacements over 400cc, they often command prices higher than many four-wheeled automobiles. They are not just means of transportation but can be considered partners in adventures. In such cases, it's recommended to prioritize a lifestyle centered around your motorcycle. Finding a property tailored for your beloved motorcycle should be your top priority. Garage houses designed specifically for motorcycles offer the ideal solution. With a garage house, your motorcycle is always by your side. You can perform maintenance at home, away from the elements, and if you have the time, polish your bike and embark on journeys together. It's the ultimate property.

However, finding garage houses can be challenging. While the following recommendation is limited to the Tokyo metropolitan area, here is a suggested site for finding garage houses.

 
[Tokyo Garage House]

Tokyo Garage House specializes in rental properties with garages. You can search for both automobile and motorcycle garages, and the site provides extensive photos and dimensions of the garage interiors, ensuring you find the perfect fit.

Both vacant and occupied properties are listed, allowing you to find your favorite property and wait for vacancies or search for vacant garage houses in your desired area. It's truly a lifestyle that prioritizes your beloved motorcycle.

External link: Tokyo Garage House

(2) Search for Parking with Theft Insurance

If garage houses seem out of reach, consider ensuring maximum security for your motorcycle! Some companies offer monthly parking services in indoor spaces with theft insurance.

 
[Bike Parking Aidu]

Aidu is the only company in the industry that offers theft insurance for motorcycle parking. The insurance is included in the monthly fee, and they have partnered with major security firms to ensure absolute security. Moreover, all parking spaces are indoors and come with power outlets, toilets, and lockers. Searching for parking spaces with Aidu as your base is an excellent choice.

External link: Bike Parking Aidu

This article discussed the challenges of finding motorcycle parking in rental properties and offered solutions for various engine displacements. We hope this article has been helpful to motorcycle enthusiasts.

If you're searching for rental properties along the Tokyu Line, please don't hesitate to contact us at Balleggs. We'll thoroughly search for motorcycle parking with all hands on deck!

Thank you for reading until the end.