Three of us (all eighteen) are planning a 20-day trip through Japan in 2026. We’re aware of the 125cc/expressway restrictions, but we want to make sure our licensing and rental paperwork is fine before we book flights.
- License: Full UK A1 License (Manual). We will have held them for more than 90 days before arrival to satisfy the IDP residency rule.
- Permit: 1949 Geneva Convention IDP (Box A stamped).
- Budget: £5k each ($6.4k USD).
- Bikes: Targeting Suzuki GSX-S125 or Honda CB125R.
Questions for the sub:
- Rental Age: We know 126cc+ usually requires being 20+ for insurance. Does the 125cc (Small/Kogata) class have more flexibility for 18-year-olds?Some seem okay with younger adults, but has anyone actually done this recently? Will they turn us away?
- Rental Process: Is there a specific "Young Rider" surcharge we should expect? One quote we saw was around £1k for 20 days, is that standard for under-20s, or are there "local" shops in Tokyo that won't hike the price?
Any tips for 125cc-specific Blue Roads between Tokyo and Kyushu would be massive. Cheers!
by foxbatsolosf35