If you’re visiting or living in Chiang Mai, renting a motorbike or scooter is one of the most affordable and convenient ways to get around. The city is compact, and having your own wheels gives you freedom to explore beyond the city limits. But how much does it actually cost to rent a bike? Prices vary depending on the season, type of bike, rental length, and the type of rental shop. In this guide, we’ll explain the common price ranges, what to watch out for, and tips for finding the right rental.
1. Market Overview and Seasonality
Motorbike rental prices in Chiang Mai can change depending on the time of year. This is mainly due to tourism seasons.
High season is from November to February. This is when the weather is cool and dry, and many tourists visit the city. Rental prices tend to go up quite significantly, especially during December and around holidays.
Low season runs from June to October. This is the rainy season, and there are fewer visitors. During this time, some rental shops lower their prices or offer promotions to attract long-term renters.
If you plan to stay for a month or more, the low season is the best time to get a good deal.
2. Day, Week, and Month Pricing
Rental prices depend on how long you plan to keep the bike. Many rental shops offer cheaper daily rates if you rent for a longer period.
- Daily rates are the most expensive option per day. A small automatic scooter (110–125cc) usually costs around 150 to 300 baht per day. Bigger bikes or newer models can cost more.
- Weekly rentals often come with a small discount. You might pay around 1,200 to 1,500 baht per week for a basic scooter.
- Monthly rentals give the best value. Prices start around 2,000 to 4,000 baht per month for standard scooters. Larger manual bikes or premium scooters may cost 4,000 to 6,000 baht per month.
Many shops including ours will offer a lower monthly price for ‘long term rental’ if you agree to rent for several months or more.
3. Big Rental Shops vs Small Family-Owned Shops
There are two main types of motorbike rental providers in Chiang Mai: larger rental shops on main streets and small independent shops.
Main street rental shops often have newer bikes and more staff. They may have clear policies, printed forms, and English-speaking workers. However, prices tend to be higher, and some may charge extra for helmets or other basic items like phone holders.
Small family-owned shops are usually more flexible with pricing. They may offer better weekly or monthly deals, especially during the low season. The bikes might be a bit older, but if they are well-maintained, they are still a good choice for around town. These shops often include helmets and basic support without extra charges.
No matter where you rent, always inspect the bike first and ask questions before paying. Our recent article Common Motorbike Scams in Thailand has some pointers on what to look out for.
4. Types of Bikes and Features
Not all scooters and motorbikes are the same. Here are the most common types you’ll find in Chiang Mai:
- Automatic scooters (110–125cc) are the most popular choice. They are easy to ride and good for beginners. Common models include the Honda Click, Yamaha GT 125 and Fino’s. Prices start around 150 baht per day or 2,000 baht per month.
- Semi-automatic or manual motorbikes (125–150cc) like the CBR150 and CB300F are better for riders with some experience. They are more powerful and better for longer rides or exploring the mountains.
- Larger bikes (150cc and above) such as the Kawasaki Versys and Honda CB500X are available but cost significantly more. These include sport or adventure models often book out fast. They are suitable for riders planning to ride to different cities or do the Mae Hong Son Loop.
Some newer bikes have LED headlights, phone holders, USB chargers, and other features. These bikes may cost more but are useful for longer rides.
5. What to Check Before You Rent
Renting a bike is easy, but you should always check a few important things before you agree:
- Deposit: Most shops ask for a deposit. This can be 1,000 to 5,000 baht. Some may want to keep your passport which we strongly advice against. If you are not comfortable with that, look for a shop that accepts a cash deposit instead.
- Licence: Some rental shops, including ours, require you to show a valid Thai motorcycle licence or an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your home country licence that includes a motorcycle endorsement. Other shops may rent to you without this, but doing so is at your own risk and may affect your insurance coverage if there’s an accident.
By law, every rider in Thailand must hold a valid motorcycle licence, and riding without one is illegal and may result in fines or other penalties. - Helmet: A quality good fitting helmet should always be included in the rental. If the shop tries to charge extra for a helmet or does not have any, that’s a bad sign.
- Fuel: Many bikes are rented with little or no fuel. You are usually expected to return it the same way. Some shops may charge extra if you bring it back empty.
- Insurance: Most rentals do not include insurance beyond the mandatory Por Ror Bor. If there is an accident, you may need to pay for repairs and damages. Some shops offer additional insurance, but always ask before renting what exactly is covered and how much the total value of the bike is.
- Damage check: Always take photos of the bike before you leave the shop. Look for scratches, dents, or other damage. Make sure the lights, brakes, and horn work properly.
Asking questions and checking the details can help avoid problems later.
Price Summary (2025 Guide)
Here is a basic guide to current prices in Chiang Mai:
| Bike Type | Daily Price | Weekly Price | Monthly Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small scooter (110–125cc) | 150–300 baht | 1,200–1,500 baht | 2,000–3,500 baht |
| Semi-auto/manual (125–150cc) | 300–400 baht | 1,500–2,000 baht | 3,000–4,500 baht |
| Larger bikes (150cc+) | 400–700 baht | 2,500–3,500 baht | 5,000–6,500 baht |
These are average prices. Some bikes may be cheaper or more expensive depending on the model, age, condition, and the shop.
Conclusion
Renting a motorbike in Chiang Mai is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to explore the city and the nearby mountains. Whether you are visiting for a few days or staying for a few months, there are good options for every budget. Just remember to check the condition of the bike, ask about deposits and what is included, and compare day, week, and monthly prices.
Long-term rentals often offer the best value if you are planning to rent for several months, and family-run shops may give better service and flexibility. We wish you a safe and enjoyable time in Chiang Mai Thailand.
