Buy a Motorbike in Vietnam – A Complete Guide

Introduction

Vietnam is a country known for its picturesque landscapes, bustling cities, and fascinating culture. With its winding roads and scenic routes, it’s no surprise that many travelers choose to explore Vietnam by motorbike.  Buying a motorbike in Vietnam can be an affordable and convenient way to get around, but it’s essential to know what you’re doing before making a purchase. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know how to buy a motorbike in Vietnam.

How To Buy A Motorbike In Vietnam: Reaching Your Options 

Types of Motorbikes

Before you start shopping, you’ll want to decide what type of motorbike you need. Vietnam has a wide variety of bikes available, ranging from small scooters to powerful touring bikes. Here are the most common types of motorbikes you’ll find in Vietnam:

• Scooters: Scooters are the most popular type of motorbike in Vietnam and for good reason. They are lightweight, easy to maneuver, and perfect for weaving in and out of traffic. 

Scooters typically have engines between 50cc and 125cc, making them fuel-efficient and affordable to operate.  They are also relatively cheap to buy, with prices ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki are popular brands for scooters in Vietnam.

• Mopeds: Mopeds are similar to scooters but have smaller engines, usually around 50cc. They are also cheaper than scooters, making them a popular choice for students and low-income individuals. 

Mopeds are not as powerful as scooters, but they are still great for short trips around the city. They are also easy to park and store, which is important in Vietnam’s crowded cities.

• Electric bikes: Electric bikes are becoming more popular in Vietnam as people look for more environmentally friendly transportation options. 

They are similar in size and style to scooters, but instead of using gasoline, they are powered by electricity. Electric bikes are quiet, emission-free, and inexpensive to operate. They are also ideal for short motorbike tours around the city.

• Touring bikes/ dirtbikes: Touring bikes/ dirtbikes are larger motorcycles designed for long-distance travel. They have bigger engines and are more comfortable for extended periods of riding. 

Touring bikes are less common in Vietnam, but they can be rented from some dirtbike rental companies for those who want to explore the country’s scenic routes. Popular touring bike models include the Honda Gold Wing and the Yamaha Super Tenere. At VietnamMotorcycleTours.Com we use all Honda dirtbike for riding off-road, they are super realiable bikes to ride in Vietnam.

Places to Buy a Motorbike 

There are several places you can buy a motorbike in Vietnam, including dealerships, rental shops, and private sellers. Here’s what you need to know about each option:

• Dealerships: Dealerships are the safest option for buying a motorbike in Vietnam. 

They offer a wide range of motorbikes to choose from and often provide warranties, maintenance services, and insurance. However, dealership prices can be higher than those of private sellers.

• Private Sellers: Private sellers are a popular option for buying a motorbike in Vietnam, especially among budget-conscious travelers. You can find private sellers on online marketplaces or by asking around in your hostel or hotel. 

But buying from a private seller can be risky, as you may encounter issues with the motorbike’s condition or legal documentation.

• Online Marketplaces: Online marketplaces such as Facebook groups are a popular option for buying a motorbike in Vietnam. 

You can browse through hundreds of motorbikes for sale and connect with the seller directly. Be cautious when buying from online marketplaces, as there’s a risk of scams and fraudulent sellers.

Considerations When Choosing a Motorbike 

When choosing a motorbike, there are several considerations to keep in mind. Here are some important factors to consider:

• Budget: The price of a motorbike can vary greatly depending on the brand, model, and condition. Cheap motorbikes are available in Vietnam, but be cautious of those that seem too good to be true.

Look for reputable sellers or rental motorbike shops, and don’t hesitate to negotiate the price. Don’t forget to factor in ongoing costs such as fuel, maintenance, and insurance. 

• Travel plans: Your travel plans will affect the type of motorbike you choose. If you plan for long Vietnam motorbike tours or rides on rough terrain, you’ll need a bike with more power and durability. 

Let’s say you’re just planning to use the bike for short trips around town; a smaller bike may be more practical.

• Riding experience: Your level of experience will also affect your choice of motorbike. In case you’re a beginner, you’ll want a bike that is easy to handle and has good stability. More experienced riders may want a bike with more power and speed.
• Size and weight: The size and weight of the bike are important considerations, especially when you’re not an experienced rider. A larger bike may be more difficult to handle, particularly on rough terrain or in heavy traffic.
• Engine size and power: The size and power of the engine will affect the bike’s performance, including its speed and acceleration. Consider your needs and budget when choosing an engine size. A larger engine will provide more power and better performance, but it will also be more expensive and require more fuel.
• Maintenance and repair: Motorbikes require regular maintenance and repairs, so it’s important to consider the availability and cost of parts and repairs when choosing a bike. 

Some brands and models may be more reliable and easier to repair than others, so do your research before making a decision.

• Bike Insurance: It’s important to have insurance when riding a motorbike, as accidents can happen. Make sure you have adequate insurance coverage before you start riding, and factor the cost of insurance into your budget when choosing a bike.

Inspecting the Motorbike Before Buying

Inspecting a motorbike is a crucial step in the buying process. Whether you’re buying from a dealership or a private seller, it’s essential to inspect the motorbike thoroughly to ensure that it’s in good condition. Check the following components:

• Brakes: Ensure that the brakes are working correctly and that the brake pads have enough life left in them.
• Tires: Check the tires for wear and tear and ensure that they’re properly inflated.
• Suspension: Test the suspension to ensure that it’s working correctly and that there are no leaks.
• Lights: Check all lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals, to ensure that they’re functioning correctly.
• Horn: Test the horn to ensure that it’s working correctly.
• Test drive: If possible, take the motorbike for a test drive to get a feel for how it handles on the road.

Overall, when inspecting a potential motorbike, look for signs of wear and tear, and check for proper registration papers and license plates. Also, quality motorbikes will have a fuel filter and fuel line hose that’s in good condition.

Negotiating The Price

Once you’ve inspected the motorbike and are satisfied with its condition, it’s time to negotiate the price. In Vietnam, it’s common for sellers to inflate the price of a motorbike for foreign buyers. Be prepared to negotiate and haggle the price down to a fair value. When negotiating the price range, it’s essential to be respectful and polite. Avoid lowballing the seller, as this can be considered rude in Vietnamese culture. Instead, offer a reasonable price based on your research and the motorbike’s condition. View more: Vietnam motorcycle tours 2024-2025

Completing the Paperwork

Suppose you’ve agreed on a price; it’s time to complete the paperwork. In Vietnam, it’s mandatory to have a registration certificate (also known as a “blue card”) to legally ride a motorbike. If you’re buying from a dealership, they’ll handle the paperwork for you.  Should you buy from a private seller, you’ll need to ensure that they have the necessary paperwork in order. Here are the documents you’ll need to complete the purchase:

• Registration certificate: Ensure that the seller has the registration certificate, which confirms that they’re the legal owner of the motorbike.
• Sales contract: Create a sales contract that includes the details of the purchase, such as the motorbike’s make and model, the price, and the date of purchase. Both you and the seller should sign and keep a copy of the contract.
• Payment receipt: Create a payment receipt that confirms the amount paid for the motorbike. Both you and the seller should sign and keep a copy of the receipt.

Once you have all the necessary paperwork, you can take your motorbike on the road and begin your adventure in Vietnam.

Conclusion

In summary, it’s best to buy a motorbike in Vietnam to explore the country and experience its beauty on your own terms. By following these tips, you can find a reliable, affordable motorbike to explore the stunning motorbike routes and the largest motorcycle market Vietnam has to offer.  Share this guide with your pals and happy riding! What riders have said about Vietnam Motorcycle Tours on Tripadvisor!