Renting bikes in Thailand, or anywhere in South East Asia can be a little daunting, especially if you are new to driving one. The things to look out for, and the dos and don’ts aren’t always clear. They can be confusing when turning to places like tiktok for advice (let’s face it, that’s where most of us get our travel info these days!) when people say different things. Well, I’m here to tell you as complete bike newbies when we came to Thailand; these are the things we learnt the hard way so that you don’t have to.
1. What deposit to leave.
One thing we’ve noticed is that some places ask for your passport as a deposit. DO NOT DO THIS. Instead, always ask what cash amount they would accept instead, and it they won’t, take your business elsewhere. Most places will still ask for some form of ID, however a photo or a driver’s license is always sufficient. Just remember, until you sign a contract you owe them nothing and are free to look elsewhere.
2. Make sure your helmet fits without help if possible
My biggest issue that I’ve encountered when renting bikes is the helmets not fitting. I’ve generally found myself having to select the children’s helmets, because my head is stupidly tiny. Unfortunately, they are not always available. In this instance, I have found myself having to wedge helmets on with a cap (or two), or by tying my hair in a low bun and using it as ‘stuffing’ to keep it in place. This is ok-ish, however it then means that everytime I go on the bike, that’s what I need to do; of course, I would always forget to do this! This being my own fault, however it’s probably a common mistake for others too. Therefore, if you can, always try to get a helmet that fits no matter what you do.
3. Research the terrain before approaching rental shops
In Koh Tao especially, the terrain is very hill-y so if you’re renting a bike for two people to ride you’ll need a bike that’s at least 125cc. Anything smaller and you may not make it to your destination. When we went to the rental place, the guy was insistent that we rented a 160cc bike for more money because of this. We did manage on a 125cc, but definitely could not have gone lower than that.
4. Take photo’s and video’s of EVERYTHING about the bike infront of the shop owner before using
A lot of contracts will make you pay for issues that may not have even been your fault. For example, if the exhaust is faulty and looks like it could fall off at any moment; when you return the bike, they will try to make you pay for it. Even if it was already like that when you got it. The video proof will save you a lot of money from these common scams. Similarly, if you do have an accident and cause damage to the bike it’s good to prove what was caused by you and what was already there, so that they do not try to take more money than you owe.
Other things to note:
• Locals will just pull out randomly in front of you, so keep your wits about you and expect the worst driving from others
• Most bikes are automatic so you will just have to worry about turning
• Make sure you know what fuel to use
• A rental place is meant to provide you with a helmet, if they do not, go elsewhere
• No matter how experienced you are, do not be a careless driver (your insurance is there just in case, rather than a green light to be reckless)
• Dogs/cats are generally road aware, but some just randomly go at moving bikes for no reason, best to give a wide birth where possible
• Know the local speed limits, most of the locals won’t follow them and it can be confusing but as a tourist YOU will be the one’s pulled over by police not the locals so follow the rules