Riding a motorbike rental in VietNam is an unforgettable adventure, offering the freedom to explore the country's bustling cities, serene landscapes, and hidden gems at your own pace. Whether you're cruising through the streets of Ho Chi Minh City, renting a scooter in Hoi An, or embarking on a scenic motorbike tour in Hue, following proper safety measures and respecting local customs are key to a successful trip. In this guide, we’ll cover the most important dos and don’ts for renting a motorbike in VietNam, helping you stay safe and enjoy the ride.

Understanding Motorbike Rentals in Viet Nam

Before diving into specific tips, it's important to grasp the VietNam motorbike rental. Motorbike rentals are widely available, from large cities like Hanoi and Da Nang to rural spots like Phong Nha. Prices vary depending on the type of bike and location, and most services cater to both tourists and locals. However, the process can differ from what you're used to, especially when it comes to local traffic laws and safety practices.

Dos when renting and riding a motorbike in VietNam

Wear a helmet

First and foremost, always wear a helmet. Not only is it a legal requirement, but it’s also your primary defense against potential accidents. In Viet Nam, wearing a helmet is non-negotiable. Even if you see locals without one, don’t follow their lead. Make sure it fits snugly and is secured properly. A good-quality helmet could save your life.

Follow traffic lights and signs

Traffic in Viet Nam can be chaotic, but traffic lights and signs still govern the roads. Always obey them when you ride a scooter for rent. While it may seem like some locals treat them as mere suggestions, tourists should adhere strictly to these signals to avoid accidents and fines. Traffic signs are your guide; they help you navigate the complex road system, so pay attention.

Drive on the correct side of the road

This might sound obvious, but in the midst of Viet Nam's bustling traffic, it’s easy to lose track of where you should be. Always drive on the right side of the road. This is especially important in crowded cities where wrong-way drivers can cause significant accidents. Stick to your lane, and if you need to overtake, do so cautiously.

Maintain an appropriate speed

Speed limits in Viet Nam vary depending on the area. In urban areas, it’s usually around 40-60 km/h, while in rural areas, it can go up to 80 km/h. However, the key is to maintain a speed that’s appropriate for the conditions when you ride a motorbike rental. Always err on the side of caution, especially when navigating unfamiliar roads or heavy traffic.

Keep a safe distance

Tailgating is a common issue in Viet Nam’s traffic. However, maintaining a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front is crucial. This gives you ample time to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic flow, which are common on Vietnamese roads. The general rule is to allow at least a two-second gap.

Adhere to traffic laws

Viet Nam’s traffic laws might be different from what you’re used to, but ignorance is no excuse. Familiarize yourself with the basics: no running red lights, no driving under the influence, and no illegal parking. With a VietNam motorbike rental, understanding and adhering to these laws will help you avoid fines and ensure a smoother riding experience.

Parking in designated areas

Parking when you are participating in traffic is very important, and you should pay attention to ensure safety for both yourself and the motorbikes behind you. Suddenly pulling over incorrectly while in traffic can not only cause accidents but also lead to fines. You must be particularly cautious when riding a motorbike rental in crowded areas, especially in major tourist cities, where the high volume of motorcycle traffic poses many potential dangers.

Wearing protective gear while riding

In addition to wearing a helmet, to ensure maximum safety, you should equip yourself with safety gear like gloves, knee pads, elbow pads, or protective clothing. While these extra measures might cause some discomfort while riding, they significantly reduce the risk of severe injuries in the event of an accident.

Following traffic police orders

When traveling on the road, obeying traffic police instructions is an obligation for everyone. Traffic police are responsible for guiding and regulating traffic in emergency situations, ensuring everyone's safety. Respecting and following their orders demonstrates responsibility and awareness as a traffic participant.

Don'ts when renting and riding a motorbike in VietNam

Not exceeding the passenger limit

Carrying more than two people on a VietNam motorbike rental not only violates the law but also risks causing accidents for both yourself and others. Exceeding the passenger limit makes controlling your motorcycle harder, leading to a loss of balance and accidents involving you and your passengers.

Not riding side by side on the road

Riding side by side on the road is extremely dangerous and can easily cause traffic jams. When motorcyclists ride in parallel, drivers behind or in other lanes have limited space to move, increasing the likelihood of collisions between vehicles.

Not using a phone

Using a phone while riding is one of the leading causes of distraction and traffic accidents. Texting or making calls while riding reduces your ability to observe and react to unexpected situations on the road. Furthermore, using a phone while riding violates traffic laws and can result in fines or vehicle impoundment.

Do not drink alcohol when driving

This cannot be stressed enough. Viet Nam has strict laws against drinking and driving. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, and the penalties for exceeding this are severe, including hefty fines and potential jail time. Beyond the legal implications, driving under the influence is incredibly dangerous on Viet Nam’s busy roads.

Do not drive against traffic

Riding a scooter rent against the flow of traffic might seem like a shortcut, but it’s extremely hazardous. Not only does it put you at risk of collisions, but it also creates confusion and chaos for other road users. Always stick to the correct side of the road, even if it means taking a longer route.

Do not speed

Speeding is a major cause of accidents in Viet Nam. The temptation to push the throttle and speed through open roads is understandable, but it’s important to keep your speed in check. Speed limits exist for a reason, and sticking to them will keep you safe.

Do not ignore prohibition signs

Prohibition signs are there for your safety. Whether it’s a no-entry sign, a restricted area, or a speed limit sign, ignoring these can lead to serious consequences. Always be aware of the signs around you and follow them accordingly.

The safe choice at Motorvina

Choosing a VietNam motorbike rental at Motorvina is not only safe but also convenient with simple and quick procedures. With just basic documents, you can get a quality motorbike to explore every road. Offering a wide variety of motorbikes distributed directly from reputable manufacturers in Vietnam, maintained with daily periodic servicing to ensure the best quality, Motorvina is committed to providing customers with the best vehicles to easily explore tourist destinations. In addition, the enthusiastic staff will assist you in thoroughly checking the bike before you set off, ensuring maximum safety. Motorvina also provides standard helmets and offers tourists helpful advice or detailed guidance on safety rules, allowing you to confidently conquer every road.

Conclusion

Exploring with a VietNam motorbike rental during your trip to famous attractions requires travelers to have some experience and knowledge about riding. However, it's essential to follow the dos and don'ts outlined in this guide to ensure a safe journey. With thorough preparation and a quality motorbike from Motorvina, we are confident that your trip will be filled with unforgettable memories. If your questions have been answered, come to Motorvina and start your own adventure.

So, gear up, ride safely, and enjoy the incredible adventure that awaits you in Viet Nam.