Bangkok Big Bike
Is it possible to hire a motor bike in Bangkok and tour the country and islands on it.?
And return it back to Bangkok when you go home? Do you need an international license? Can you take them on the ferries? Are there restrictions to what you can carry? i.e. in India a family of 8, 4 dogs and the kitchen sink can travel on a moped!! Special insurance? Does anyone recommend it or is a whacking great big NO?
It is possible, but only to be recommended if you are an experienced driver. For renting, international DL is required, but checking the validity is normally not too thorough.
You can take bikes on all car ferries and mopeds can be transported on/in longtail boats.
The law limits you to carry one passenger. The law will apply to you, so even if you see locals carry tons of stuff around on mopeds, you’ll be “fined” if you attempt to copy them.
Helmets are required in major towns and cities.
I’ve made motorcycle some trips myself in Thailand and Vietnam … it is a great way of seeing things, but it is slower than going by car, bus, train or airplane.
Bangkok Motorbike Festival 2010