How to buy a bike in Thailand?

Getting around Thailand by bike is not only convenient, it is often the only right decision. In a country where traffic jams are common and public transport is not always convenient, scooters and motorcycles are the most popular means of transport. They are used by both locals and tourists because they are the fastest, most economical and mobile way to get from point A to point B.

The advantage of a bike in Thailand The main thing is freedom of movement. You don’t need to adjust to the public transport schedule, overpay for a taxi or sit in traffic jams. This is especially true on the islands and in resort towns, where the distance between beaches, hotels and attractions is quite large.

Buying your own bike, as opposed to renting one, allows you to save a lot of money during a long stay in the country. For example, renting a bike costs an average of 200-300 baht per day, which is 6,000-9,000 baht per month. At the same time, a used scooter can be bought for 25,000-40,000 baht, a new one - from 50,000 baht. If you plan to stay in the country for more than two or three months, buying will be more profitable than renting.

However, before buying a bike in Thailand, it is important to understand which model will suit you, where it is better to organize the purchase and what documents need to be prepared. Let's look at this in order.

How to choose a bike in Thailand?

The choice of bike depends on your mood. Some people are looking for a comfortable scooter for the city, some want a motorcycle for mountain trips, and some want an economical model for beach routes.

There are three most common types of motorcycles found in Thailand:

●       Mopeds are light and low-power models (up to 50 cc). They were practically not used in Thailand, as they were replaced by more convenient scooters long ago.

●       Scooters are the most common form of transport among tourists and locals. They are easy to operate, have an automatic transmission and save fuel. Come to the city ride and visit the island.

●       Motorcycles are powerful bikes with a manual transmission. Suitable for long trips and for those who love speed or are planning a trip through the mountains.

The most popular bike models in Thailand are:

●       Honda Click 125i/150i is a lightweight, economical and reliable scooter, perfect for the city and resort areas.

●       Yamaha NMax 155 – more visible and comfortable, suitable for long trips.

●       Honda PCX 160 is a larger scooter with a spacious trunk, convenient for two people.

●       Honda CRF 250L / 300L – for off-road and mountain routes.

●       Kawasaki Ninja 400 – if you need a real motorcycle with good dynamics.

Before buying, it is important to check the technical condition of the bike. Pay attention to the mileage, condition of the tires, brakes and shock absorbers. If the bike has already been used for rent, its technical condition may be worse, as such scooters are often delivered without proper care.

Where to buy a bike in Thailand?

There are several ways to buy a bike in Thailand: through official dealers, on the secondary market, or from other tourists leaving the country. Each of these options has its pros and cons.

Purchase from official dealers

Official dealerships of Honda, Yamaha and other manufacturers can be found in major cities. Only new bikes are sold here, which guarantees their excellent condition, and also allows you to arrange insurance and registration without unnecessary problems. When buying a bike from a dealer, you add backup copies and the possibility of maintenance in a service center. However, the cost of new models is higher than on the secondary market, and, as a rule, a residence permit or a secret driver's license is required to complete the purchase.

Buying through private ads and forums

If you want to buy a bike in Thailand cheaper, you can look for offers on Facebook Marketplace, Bahtsold, Kaidee and in groups for expats. Here you can find used models in good condition, but before buying it is important to check the documents. The sale must have a Green Book (registration certificate), as well as a paper on the last registration. It is also worth making sure that the bike has no outstanding fines.

What to look for before purchasing:

●       Condition of tires, brakes and shock absorbers.

●       Availability of a Green Book and the possibility of registering the bike in your name.

●       Mileage and appearance - if the bike is too worn out, it is better to look for another option.

Buying from tourists leaving the country

Many foreigners, leaving Thailand, sell their bikes at a reduced price, as they want to get rid of them quickly. This option is profitable, as you can find a new bike with low mileage. However, there is a risk that the documents will be issued in the name of the owner, re-registration can take time.

Where to buy a bike in Pattaya, Phuket and Bangkok?

Depending on the region, you can choose different purchase options:

●       Bangkok has the largest selection of official dealers and global companies, the lowest prices.

●       Pattaya has a thriving used bike market, but you need to check the paperwork carefully.

●       In Phuket, prices are higher due to the large number of tourists, but you can find good deals from expats leaving.

If you want to save money, it is worth buying a bike in Bangkok and then transporting it to the islands - the difference in price can vary.

How much does a bike cost in Thailand?

The price of a bike in Thailand depends on several factors: whether it is new or used, what model, and the conditions under which the purchase is made. A new scooter, for example, a Honda Click 125i, will then cost 50,000–60,000 baht, while a Yamaha NMax 155 costs 70,000–85,000 baht, and a more comfortable Honda PCX 160 costs 90,000 baht and up. Prices for motorcycles vary even more: a Kawasaki Ninja 400 costs around 220,000 baht, and more powerful models can exceed 600,000 baht.

Used bikes are better value. Basic Honda Click and Yamaha NMax models can be found for 20,000–40,000 baht if the bike is a few years old. Nearly new scooters with low mileage will cost 40,000–50,000 baht. There are also good options on the used motorcycle market, but it is important to check the technical condition and documents.

The region of purchase also plays a role. In Bangkok, prices are the lowest, as competition between sellers is higher. In Pattaya, the choice is good, but there are many scooters that were previously rented. In Phuket, bikes are more expensive, because demand from tourists is higher, and local sellers actively take advantage of this. If possible, it is more profitable to buy a scooter in Phuket not from local dealers, but to bring it from Bangkok.

In addition to buying the bike itself, there are additional costs that cannot be avoided. Registration and obtaining a Green Book will cost 1,000-1,500 baht, mandatory insurance costs about 600 baht per year, and if you need full protection against damage and theft, the consequences will arise from 4,000 baht per year. Also, do not forget about a helmet, which costs from 300 to 1,500 baht, and regular maintenance.

How to register a bike in your name?

Buying a bike in Thailand is just the first step. To ride without problems, it is important to fill out all the documents correctly. Unlike renting, where a passport and a deposit are enough, registering a bike in your name requires a little more attention.

What documents are needed to buy a bike in Thailand?

When buying a new bike from a motorcycle dealership or from a private individual, you need to make sure:

●       A foreign passport is the main document certifying the buyer’s identity.

●       Visa or stamp to enter the country - in some cases, a visa to exit is required rather than a tourist stamp.

●       The issue of accommodation in Thailand can be concluded with a lease agreement or a certificate from the immigration service.

If you are buying a bike from a private individual, you must make sure that the seller has a Green Book (registration certificate) and agrees to the re-registration.

How to register a bike and get a Green Book?

Registration is carried out at the Department of Land Transport (DLT), where you must go together with the seller (if the bike is used) or complete all the paperwork at once when buying a new one. The process includes:

1. Filling out an application for change of ownership.
2. Check the technical condition of the bike.
3. Payment of the organizational fee.
4. Receiving a new Green Book with your name on it.

The procedure takes 1-2 weeks, the cost varies from 1,000 to 1,500 baht.

Do I need to get secret numbers and insurance?

The numbers are issued immediately upon registration of the bike. If you buy a new bike from an authorized dealer, they can do all the paperwork for you. Insurance is mandatory - without it, you are prohibited from leaving. Standard civil insurance (CTPL) covers only minimal medical expenses and costs about 600 baht per year. Full insurance coverage, including damage and theft, costs from 4,000 baht.

Is it possible to drive without a license?

This question worries many tourists, but the answer is clear: no, you can't ride in Thailand without a license. Even if the bike was bought in your name, if you meet the police, the lack of a license will result in a fine.

Several types of licenses are suitable. The International Driving Permit (IDP), issued by the Geneva Conference of 1968, is recognized in Thailand and allows you to drive a motorcycle. If you have a refugee license with category A, but without an international license, the situation is more complicated: some police officers may accept it, others - not. In this case, it is better to get a secret license, which can be issued on the basis of Russia.

The fine for driving without a license is 500-2,000 baht, but if there is repeated damage, the bike may even be confiscated. Another nuance is insurance. If you do not have a license, the insurance company will not pay electricity in the event of an accident, even if you are not at fault.

If you plan to stay in the country, it is better to legalize your Russian license. To do this, you need to contact the Department of Land Transport (DLT), undergo a medical examination, submit documents and pass an exam. Thai licenses are issued for 2 years, then they can be extended for 10 years.

How to avoid problems with the police and fines?

Thai police regularly check bikes, especially in tourist areas, so it's best to know in advance how to behave at a bus stop, what documents you should have, and what you'll most often get fined for.

How to behave correctly at a police stop?

If you are stopped by the police, the main thing is not to panic and not try to drive away. This is common practice, especially in Phuket, Pattaya and Bangkok. Patrol officers check documents and insurance, and also look for drivers without a license. What to do:

●       Turn off the engine and remove the helmet.

●       Say hello politely, without being rude or irritated.

●       Provide documents (license, Green Book, insurance) if asked.

●       If everything is okay with you, you will be released in a couple of minutes.

What documents are checked most often?

●       Driving license (international or secret).

●       Insurance (CTPL) is a mandatory policy issued when registering a bike.

●       Green Book - don't always check it, but it's better to carry it with you.

Typical tourist violations and how to avoid them

Most often, fines are issued for:

●       Driving without a license - fine 500–2000 baht.

●       Lack of helmet - fine 500-1000 baht.

●       Driving on the wrong side of the road - fine 500 baht.

●       Crossing a solid line - fine 500 baht.

●       Driving without insurance - fine 500–1000 baht.

To avoid fines, follow the rules and carry all documents with you. If you have everything in order, the police will let you go without problems.

Tips for using a motorbike in Thailand

Basic Road Rules for Motorcyclists

Traffic in Thailand is on the left, which may be unusual for tourists. Bikes are quite full-fledged participants in the traffic, but car drivers often do not notice them, so you need to drive carefully.

It is important to remember:

●       In cities the speed limit is 50-60 km/h, on highways – up to 90 km/h.

●       At red lights, bikes must stop, although this is often ignored in the vicinity.

●       Pedestrians are rarely given way, so it's best not to assume that they'll give way to you.

Where to fill up and how much does petrol cost?

In Thailand, petrol is sold both at regular petrol stations and in expensive bottles on the roadside. The latter option is more expensive and may be of lower quality. It is better to fill up at PTT, Bangchak, Shell, where the fuel always meets the standards.

The price of gasoline is 40-45 baht per liter. A full tank is enough for an average of 150-200 km.

Where is the best place to park to avoid fines?

In Thailand, bikes can be parked almost anywhere, but large cities and resort areas have their own rules.

Best place to park:

●       Special parking lots near shopping centers and markets (usually free).

●       Official parking on the beach.

●       Hotels and condominiums (if you live in one).

Parking is possible:

●       On the sidewalks in the city center.

●       Near intersections and crossings.

●       Where there are signs saying "No Parking".

If the bike has been towed, it can be picked up from the impound lot by paying a fine of 500-1000 baht.

How to avoid accidents and fines?

●       Don't speed, especially on wet roads - rain makes the road surface very slippery.

●       Don't trust Thai drivers - they rarely look in their mirrors and can change lanes immediately.

●       Be careful at intersections - in Thailand people often drive through red lights.

●       Don't drink before you travel - drunk driving carries a fine of 10,000+ baht and may result in no visa.

The rule is to be careful and not try to drive like the nearby ones. Thais have their own driving style, tourists should be careful.

Conclusion

Buying a bike in Thailand is a good solution for those who plan to stay in the country. It is not only more convenient than renting, but also more profitable if you live in Thailand for more than two or three months. The choice between a new and used bike depends on your budget and preferences: new models are more expensive, but do not require investment in repairs, while used ones can be much cheaper, but require careful inspection.

Buying from an official dealer is a guarantee and convenience, but it costs more. Buying from someone allows you to save money, but requires checking the documents and technical condition. In any case, registering the bike, insurance and driver's license are mandatory, without which serious problems with the police may arise.

Is it worth buying a bike if you are coming for a couple of weeks? Most likely, no - in this case, it is easier to rent one. But if you live in the country for at least a few months, buying is the right decision. The main thing is to follow local laws, not break the rules and drive carefully, because the traffic in Thailand is significantly different from what you are used to.