Motorbike Rental - The Basics

When visiting Vietnam - the land of motorbikes - many travelers are eager to experience the thrill of riding their own “iron horse” and exploring the diverse landscapes of the country. If you dream of becoming a hero on the road with your own motorbike, Vietnam is certainly the place for you!

Where and how can I find a motorbike?

Motorbike rental services are widely available in Vietnam, making it convenient for both foreigners looking to try something new and locals who depend on motorbikes as their primary mode of transportation. If you're not ready to purchase a motorbike yet or just want a special ride for a short getaway, renting a motorbike is a fast, convenient, and cost-effective solution.

The first step in your adventure is to find a motorbike suited to your needs and riding capabilities. Factors to consider include whether you’re taking a short vacation or a longer holiday, the type of terrain (flat or mountainous), and, importantly, your level of riding experience. There is a wide selection of bikes available, ranging from automatic to semi-automatic models from popular brands like Honda Wave, Honda Dream, and the backpacker favorites, Simson and Minsk. By clearly understanding your own requirements, you can avoid confusion when presented with numerous options at rental shops and save time during your selection process.

In response to increasing demand, rental shops can easily be located in major cities and popular tourism spots. Most travel agents and hotels offer this service, so feel free to contact reception for detailed information and assistance. Specialized rental shops are mostly found in areas frequented by tourists, such as the Old Quarter in Hanoi, District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City, and Hung Vuong Boulevard in Hue.

See our video on Riding a Moped in Vietnam:

Price and procedures

The motorbike rental market is competitive, and prices within cities vary slightly based on the type and quality of the motorbike. Generally, renting an automatic bike costs around $15 per day and a semi-automatic bike costs approximately $12 per day, with gasoline often included. If you choose to refuel on your own and rent the bike for more than one day, you might receive a discount of about 20%. Don’t forget to ask for a helmet and lock, which are usually provided with the rental.

In smaller cities like Hue, rental prices can be lower, around $8 per day, excluding gasoline. Renting a motorbike as a foreigner in Vietnam is straightforward. You’ll need to provide a hard copy of your passport along with a form of identification with a photograph, such as a driver’s license or your passport itself. Some rental shop owners might also require a deposit equal to 50-70% of the bike’s value. Keep in mind that renters are responsible for any damages or accidents involving the bike.

Other tips

It’s wise to thoroughly inspect the bike’s condition prior to signing a rental agreement and paying a deposit. Check the brakes, lights, horn, and lock, which are essential for your safety.

Carefully examine the bike for any scratches or damage and communicate these issues to the owner. Typically, newer bikes offer better reliability. For your information, the Honda Wave RS remains one of the most popular and user-friendly models!

If you are planning an extended trip, be well-prepared with a map, a motorbike repair kit, and make sure to locate gas stations along your route!