How to choose a motorcycle for okada
Your bike is your business. A good okada bike starts every morning, carries a passenger all day without stress, sips fuel and is cheap to fix. Here is what to look at.
1. Check the rules in your area first
Some states and cities restrict commercial motorcycles in certain areas — for example parts of Lagos. Before you buy a bike for okada work, check what is allowed where you plan to ride, and whether your state or local union asks for a permit or registration for commercial riders.
2. Engine size: 125cc or 150cc for most riders
Most okada riders choose between 125cc and 150cc. A 125cc is cheaper to buy and a little easier on fuel — good for flat city routes and short trips. A 150cc pulls better with a heavy passenger, on hills, on bad roads and on longer trips between towns. A 100–110cc bike can do the job, but working hard with a passenger all day wears a small engine faster. More in 125cc vs 150cc.
3. Spare parts and mechanics matter more than looks
The best okada bike is one that every roadside mechanic knows. In many towns you see the same few models doing okada work — and that is a good reason to choose one of them: parts are in every market, mechanics know them, and a breakdown costs you hours, not days. Before you buy an unusual model, ask a mechanic near you if he can get parts for it.
4. Comfort for you and your passenger
- A long, firm seat — your passenger sits for the whole trip.
- Passenger footrests and a grab rail — safer for them, less wobble for you.
- Good suspension — potholes and speed bumps all day are hard on your back.
- A rear carrier — for passengers' bags and market goods.
5. Kick start, electric start — or both?
Electric start saves effort when you start and stop many times a day. Kick start keeps working when the battery is weak. Many work bikes have both, which is the safest choice for daily okada work.
6. Fuel: look at the claimed number, then be realistic
Makers quote fuel economy in kilometres per litre, measured in good conditions. With a passenger, in traffic and on bad roads you will use more. Compare bikes using the same type of number, then estimate your monthly cost — every bike page with a claimed figure has a fuel calculator, and our guide how much fuel does a motorcycle use? shows how to measure your real use.
7. Buy new — and get the papers
A tokunbo bike sold as new looks cheap until the engine needs work. Buy brand-new, check the bike when it arrives (here's how) and keep the receipt and import papers — you need them to register the bike (see documents for registration).
8. Budget for the extras
Besides the bike, plan for registration and number plate, insurance, two helmets (one for your passenger), and your first service. Wearing a helmet — and giving one to your passenger — protects your life and your income.