NOTES ABOUT MOTORBIKE RENTALS IN HANOI

Our first note about motorbike rentals in Hanoi is that guided motorcycle tours are our primary business, while self-guided (unguided) rentals are a secondary service. As a result, our rental motorcycles are often booked well in advance, especially during the peak riding season. We therefore recommend making your reservation as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

Please also note that we do not normally offer one-way motorcycle rentals because we operate only one office in Hanoi. Many customers ask whether we can deliver or collect motorcycles in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) or other destinations throughout Vietnam. While this may be possible in some cases, it involves a significant return transportation fee. Therefore, unless otherwise agreed in advance, all motorcycle rentals start and end at our office in Hanoi.

One-way Motorbike Rentals

We generally do not offer one-way motorbike rentals because we operate only one office in Hanoi. In exceptional cases, a one-way rental may be possible, but it will incur a substantial return transportation fee. Unless otherwise agreed, all rentals start and end in Hanoi.

For safety reasons, we do not rent motorcycles to inexperienced or novice riders. Vietnam is not the right place to learn or test your riding skills. If you wish to rent a 250cc dual-sport or trail bike, you should ideally be over 1.75 m (5 ft 9 in) or have solid experience riding a motorcycle of similar size and weight. Basic mechanical knowledge is also recommended, especially if you plan to ride in remote areas.

The full rental payment is required before you collect your motorcycle, motorbike, or scooter. Please note that all payments are non-refundable once a booking is cancelled or after you have taken possession of the rented vehicle(s). However, in many cases, we are happy to reschedule your rental dates, subject to availability, if your plans change before the trip.

Notes About Motorbike Rental Hours

We do not offer a 24-hour rental service. Our rental charges are calculated by calendar day, not by the hour.

If you collect a motorcycle any time before 5:00 pm, you will be charged for the full day. For example, if you pick up your bike at 12:00 noon on the first day and return it at 12:00 noon the following day, the rental will be charged as two days, not one.

In addition, the minimum rental period is four (4) days. This policy allows us sufficient time to prepare, inspect, and maintain each motorcycle to ensure it is in excellent condition for every customer.

What Bike Should You Choose?

Most first-time visitors assume that an automatic scooter is the easiest option. However, we generally do not recommend starting with a step-through automatic scooter, especially if you have little riding experience. These scooters often have very sensitive throttle response, typically no foot brake, and smaller front wheels that can feel twitchy on uneven roads.

Instead, we recommend starting with a 100-110cc semi-automatic motorcycle, such as the Honda Wave. The semi-automatic gearbox encourages you to build speed gradually, making it easier to develop confidence and ride more safely. It also features a foot-operated rear brake, which feels more natural for many riders who learned to ride bicycles first. In addition, the larger wheels provide better stability and handling on Vietnam’s often unpredictable road surfaces.

Don’t be intimidated by manual motorcycles with a clutch, either. Most riders become comfortable with the clutch surprisingly quickly, and a manual gearbox offers greater control, smoother gear changes, and better performance, particularly on steep mountain roads and off-road trails.

Go Guided Instead?

If you’re looking for a fully guided, all-inclusive on-road or off-road motorcycle tour in Vietnam, we highly recommend choosing one of our guided adventures. An experienced guide, mechanic, and translator can add tremendous value to your journey by helping you navigate unfamiliar roads, communicating with local people, handling mechanical issues, and introducing you to places and experiences that are difficult to discover on your own.

If you would like to learn more about our Notes About Motorbike Rentals in Hanoi, please contact us. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and help you choose the right motorcycle or tour for your adventure in Vietnam.