Learn more: Book now Ha Giang Motorbike Rental
Look, I’m going to be brutally honest with you about something most travel blogs won’t tell you:
Your Ha Giang Loop experience is only as good as your bike.
I’ve seen it happen too many times. Someone rents a sketchy motorbike from a random guy on the street for $5/day, thinking they’re getting a great deal. Then:
Meanwhile, the travelers who rented from legitimate operators with well-maintained bikes? They’re cruising through Ha Giang having the time of their lives, stress-free.
Here’s what this guide covers:
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to rent a motorbike in Ha Giang without getting scammed, stranded, or fined by police.
Quick answer: Ha Giang motorbike rental costs 180,000-500,000 VND ($7-20) per day depending on bike type. You legally need an International Driving Permit (1968 Vienna Convention) + home license. Rent from established hostels/operators with real shops and good reviews. Damage deposits range from 2-5 million VND ($80-200).
Learn more: Ha Giang Loop motorbike tour
Let’s cut through the confusion. You’ll see four main bike types in Ha Giang. Here’s what they actually are and who should rent each one.
Bike Type 1: Honda Wave Alpha 110cc (Semi-Automatic)
What it is: Vietnam’s most common bike. 4-speed semi-automatic (you shift gears with your foot, but no clutch to worry about). Lightweight, simple, bulletproof reliable.
Our Price: 180,000 VND/day ($7.20)
Engine: 110cc, 4-stroke
Transmission: Semi-automatic (no clutch)
Weight: ~95kg (light, easy to handle)
Who it’s for:
First-time motorbike riders
Anyone who’s never used a clutch
Shorter riders (under 175cm)
Budget travelers
People who want simple and reliable
Pros: ✅ Easiest to ride (no clutch = one less thing to think about)
✅ Super lightweight (easy to control, pick up if dropped)
✅ Amazing fuel economy (40-50 km/liter)
✅ Cheapest rental option
✅ Parts everywhere if something breaks
✅ Perfect size for shorter riders
Cons: ❌ Less powerful on steep hills (struggles with 2 people + heavy bags)
❌ Cramped for tall riders (180cm+)
❌ Small wheels = bumpier on rough roads
❌ Feels buzzy at higher speeds
❌ Looks… basic (if you care)
Real talk: This bike completes Ha Giang Loop perfectly well. Don’t believe anyone who says “You NEED a bigger bike.” About 70-80% of self-drive tourists use Wave Alphas and finish the loop just fine.
Best for: Beginners, first-timers, budget travelers, shorter/lighter riders.
Bike Type 2: Yamaha PG-1 113.7cc (Semi-Automatic)
What it is: Yamaha’s “adventure-style” semi-automatic. Slightly more powerful than the Wave, better suspension, designed for rough roads. Still no clutch—easy to ride.
Our Price: 300,000 VND/day ($12)
Engine: 113.7cc, 4-stroke
Transmission: Semi-automatic (4 gears, no clutch)
Weight: ~102kg
Special Features: Front disc brake, longer suspension travel
Who it’s for:
Beginners to intermediate riders
Taller riders (175-185cm) who find Wave cramped
Anyone wanting more comfort without going manual
Riders who want better suspension on rough roads
Pros: ✅ More comfortable than Wave (better seat, ergonomics)
✅ Longer suspension = smoother ride on bumpy roads
✅ Front disc brake (safer, better stopping power)
✅ Still semi-automatic (easy to ride)
✅ More power on hills than Wave
✅ Better for taller riders
Cons: ❌ Costs $5/day more than Wave
❌ Slightly heavier (harder to pick up if dropped)
❌ Less common (harder to find parts in remote areas)
❌ Still semi-automatic (experienced riders might want manual)
Real talk: This is the “sweet spot” bike. For an extra $15 over 3 days ($36 vs $21), the PG-1 is noticeably more comfortable. Absolutely worth it if you’re taller or doing longer days (Ha Giang-Cao Bang 5-day tour).
Best for: Intermediate riders, taller people (175cm+), anyone wanting comfort without manual complexity.
Bike Type 3: Honda Winner X 150cc (Manual)
What it is: Honda’s sporty manual bike. 5-speed with clutch, 150cc power, fuel-injected engine. Popular with Vietnamese riders for highway cruising.
Our Price: 350,000 VND/day ($14)
Engine: 150cc, 4-stroke, fuel-injected
Transmission: Manual (5 gears + clutch)
Weight: ~115kg
Special Features: Disc brakes front & rear, digital display
Who it’s for:
Experienced riders who know how to use a clutch
People who enjoy manual transmission
Riders doing long tours (5-day Ha Giang-Cao Bang)
Anyone wanting more highway power
Pros: ✅ Significantly more power (150cc = easy passing, steep climbs)
✅ 5-speed gearbox (better for long highway stretches)
✅ Fuel-injected (reliable starting, better economy)
✅ Excellent brakes (disc front & rear)
✅ Comfortable for long days
✅ Looks sporty (if that matters)
Cons: ❌ Requires clutch control (NOT for beginners)
❌ More expensive ($42 for 3 days vs $21 for Wave)
❌ Heavier (harder at slow speeds, parking)
❌ Overkill for Ha Giang (you don’t NEED this much power)
❌ Higher fuel consumption
Real talk: This is more bike than most people need for Ha Giang. The roads don’t require 150cc. BUT if you’re an experienced rider who enjoys riding and you’re doing 5+ days, it’s a pleasure to ride. The extra power is nice but not necessary.
Best for: Experienced manual riders, motorcycle enthusiasts, multi-day tours (5+ days).
Bike Type 4: Honda XR150L (Manual Dirt Bike)
What it is: Honda’s proper adventure/dirt bike. Manual transmission, long-travel suspension, knobby tires, designed for off-road capability. This is a REAL dirt bike.
Our Price: 500,000 VND/day ($20)
Engine: 150cc, 4-stroke
Transmission: Manual (5 gears + clutch)
Weight: ~116kg
Special Features: Long-travel suspension, high ground clearance, off-road capability
Who it’s for:
Experienced riders ONLY
People who’ve ridden dirt bikes before
Very tall riders (180cm+)
Riders wanting maximum comfort and capability
Pros: ✅ BEST suspension (absorbs bumps like nothing else)
✅ Excellent for rough roads, gravel, mud
✅ High ground clearance (doesn’t scrape on rocks)
✅ Superior brakes
✅ Very comfortable upright riding position
✅ Looks like a proper adventure bike
Cons: ❌ Most expensive rental ($60 for 3 days)
❌ Overkill for Ha Giang (roads are 95% paved)
❌ Heavy (challenging at low speeds)
❌ Requires manual riding skills
❌ Tall seat (hard for shorter riders to touch ground)
❌ Higher fuel consumption
Real talk: This bike is MASSIVE overkill for Ha Giang Loop. The roads are paved. You don’t need off-road capability. HOWEVER, if you’re tall (180cm+), experienced, and want maximum comfort—this is the Rolls Royce of rentals. The suspension makes rough sections feel like butter.
Best for: Tall experienced riders, dirt bike enthusiasts, those doing rough 5+ day routes.
Quick Comparison Table:
Bike | Price/Day | Type | Power | Comfort | Best For | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Wave Alpha 110cc | 180,000₫ ($7) | Semi-auto | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | Beginners | ⭐ Easy |
Yamaha PG-1 114cc | 300,000₫ ($12) | Semi-auto | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Intermediate | ⭐ Easy |
Winner X 150cc | 350,000₫ ($14) | Manual | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Experienced | ⭐⭐ Moderate |
XR150L Dirt Bike | 500,000₫ ($20) | Manual | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Expert | ⭐⭐⭐ Hard |
So Which Bike Should YOU Rent?
Choose Honda Wave Alpha 110cc if:
You’ve never ridden a motorbike (or only scooters in Bali)
You’re on a tight budget
You’re under 175cm tall
You want dead-simple and reliable
Choose Yamaha PG-1 114cc if:
You’ve ridden before but not extensively
You’re 175-185cm tall (Wave feels cramped)
You want comfort upgrade for $5/day extra
You’re doing the full 3-day loop
Choose Honda Winner X 150cc if:
You’ve ridden manual bikes and know how to use a clutch
You’re doing 5-day Ha Giang-Cao Bang tour
You genuinely enjoy riding motorcycles
Budget allows ($42 for 3 days)
Choose Honda XR150L if:
You’re an experienced dirt bike rider
You’re 180cm+ tall
You want the most comfortable ride possible
Money is not a concern ($60 for 3 days)
My recommendation for 90% of people:
Wave Alpha or PG-1.
Wave = cheapest, easiest, gets the job done perfectly
PG-1 = worth the $15 upgrade for 3 days if you’re tall or want better comfort
Don’t overthink it. Ha Giang roads are good. You don’t need a monster bike to complete the loop.
Learn more: Ha Giang Loop 4 days 3 motorbike tour
Let’s talk money—what you actually pay and what you get for it.
Our Loop Trails Rental Prices (Clear & Transparent):
Bike Type | Daily Rate | 3-Day Total | What You Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
Honda Wave Alpha 110cc | 180,000₫ | 540,000₫ | $21.60 |
Yamaha PG-1 114cc | 300,000₫ | 900,000₫ | $36 |
Honda Winner X 150cc | 350,000₫ | 1,050,000₫ | $42 |
Honda XR150L Dirt Bike | 500,000₫ | 1,500,000₫ | $60 |
These are our real 2025 prices. No hidden fees, no surprises.
What’s NOT INCLUDED (You Pay Separately):
❌ Fuel
You’re responsible for filling up
Budget: 250,000-350,000₫ ($10-14) for full 3-day loop
❌ Damage deposit (see below)
❌ Travel insurance
We recommend you get this
See insurance section
❌ Bike upgrades above Wave
Want PG-1 instead of Wave? Pay the difference (120,000₫/day extra)
❌ Extra accessories (phone mount, etc.)
Available but not standard
The Damage Deposit (How It Works):
Every legitimate rental requires a deposit. This is normal and protects both parties.
Our deposit amounts:
Wave Alpha: 2,000,000₫ ($80)
PG-1: 2,500,000₫ ($100)
Winner X: 3,000,000₫ ($120)
XR150L: 5,000,000₫ ($200)
Your options:
Option 1: Cash Deposit (Recommended)
You give us cash
We give you a receipt
Return bike undamaged → you get cash back in full
This is the best option (you keep your passport)
Option 2: Passport Hold
We photocopy your passport details
Keep the original as security
Return bike → you get passport back
Less ideal (you might need passport for hotels, police checks)
My honest advice: Pay cash deposit if you can. It’s $80-200 for 3 days. Getting your passport back immediately when you return is worth it.
Damage Charges (Clear & Fair):
We have a written damage policy. Here’s what we charge:
Damage Type | Our Charge | Fair? |
|---|---|---|
Minor scratches (plastic) | 100,000-200,000₫ ($4-8) | ✓ Yes |
Broken mirror | 200,000₫ ($8) | ✓ Yes |
Broken turn signal | 200,000₫ ($8) | ✓ Yes |
Scratched metal parts | 300,000-500,000₫ ($12-20) | ✓ Usually yes |
Flat tire (your fault) | 50,000-100,000₫ ($2-4) | ✓ Yes |
Bent handlebar | 400,000₫ ($16) | ✓ Yes |
Major damage (cracked engine case) | 1,000,000-2,000,000₫ ($40-80) | ✓ Fair |
Important: We document the bike’s condition with you BEFORE you leave. Photos, checklist, the works. You’re not paying for damage that was already there.
Scam operators charge:
$200 for a tiny scratch
$500 for “frame damage” you didn’t cause
Whatever they can get away with
This is why renting from legitimate operators with written policies matters.
How to Avoid Rental Scams (Red Flags):
🚩 Price way too low
“$3/day!” = They’ll charge you $300 in fake damages later
🚩 No written contract
“Just trust me!” = You’ll regret it
🚩 Won’t let you inspect bike before leaving
“It’s fine, just go!” = They’re hiding existing damage
🚩 Vague about damage charges
“We’ll figure it out later” = Scam incoming
🚩 Pressure tactics
“Last bike! Rent now or someone else will!” = Probably lying
🚩 No physical shop/location
Just some guy with bikes = No accountability
How We Do It Differently (Loop Trails):
✅ Written contract with all terms clearly stated
✅ Inspection checklist with photos before you leave
✅ Clear damage policy posted and explained
✅ Physical location (48 Nguyen Du, Ha Giang City)
✅ Google reviews you can check (real guests, real experiences)
✅ 5+ years in business (we’re established, not fly-by-night)
✅ 24/7 support (real phone number, WhatsApp, we actually answer)
We want you to have a great Ha Giang Loop experience. Scamming you doesn’t help anyone.
Okay, let’s talk about the legal stuff because getting stopped by police without proper documents really sucks.
What You LEGALLY Need to Ride in Vietnam:
Required by Vietnamese law:
International Driving Permit (IDP)
Must be issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention
NOT the 1949 Convention (doesn’t work in Vietnam)
Must include motorcycle category (A or A1)
Your home country driver’s license
Original (not photocopy)
Must show motorcycle endorsement
Your passport
Original or certified copy
That’s it. Those three documents = you’re legal.
How to Get an IDP (Before You Travel):
In most countries:
Step 1: Visit your national automobile association:
Step 2: Bring:
Step 3: They issue IDP same-day or within 1-2 weeks
Validity: Usually 1-3 years
CRITICAL: Make sure you get 1968 Vienna Convention IDP. Some countries issue 1949 Convention IDPs—those DON’T work in Vietnam.
Common Mistakes People Make:
❌ “I’ll just use my home license” → Illegal in Vietnam. Police can (and do) fine you.
❌ “I’ll get my IDP when I arrive in Vietnam” → Impossible. IDPs must be issued in your home country.
❌ “I bought an IDP online for $49!” → Scam. Real IDPs cost ~$20 from official auto associations only.
❌ “I have a 1949 Convention IDP” → Doesn’t work in Vietnam. You need 1968 Convention.
What If You Don’t Have an IDP?
Your realistic options:
Option 1: Easy Rider Tour (recommended)
You don’t ride—you’re the passenger
No license needed
Safest legal option
Option 2: Jeep Tour
Professional driver, you’re a passenger
No license required
Option 3: Risk it (self-drive without IDP)
I’m NOT recommending this
But let’s be realistic: some people do it
Here’s what happens…
The Reality of Riding Without IDP:
Police checkpoint facts:
Typical fine: 400,000-800,000₫ ($16-32)
Worst case: Bike confiscated, taken to police station, bigger fine
Some travelers ride the entire loop without getting stopped. Others get stopped on Day 1. It’s a gamble.
My honest advice: Get the IDP before your trip. It costs $20 and takes 30 minutes. Don’t risk ruining your Ha Giang experience over $20.
What Police Actually Check at Checkpoints:
They’ll ask for:
License (IDP + home license both)
Passport
Bike registration (we provide this)
They’re checking for:
Foreigners without IDP (easy fine revenue)
People without helmets (fine)
Stolen bikes (registration issue)
How to interact with police:
✅ Be polite and calm
✅ Have documents ready (don’t fumble)
✅ Don’t argue
✅ Accept the fine if you’re wrong (it’s not expensive)
Police are generally reasonable with foreigners IF you have proper documents.
Helmet Law:
Vietnam requires helmets. Period.
Rental shops provide helmets (included).
Fine for no helmet: 200,000-400,000₫ ($8-16)
Just wear it. It’s also, you know, safer.
Age Requirements:
Vietnam law: Must be 18+ to ride bikes over 50cc
Rental shops: Usually require 18+ (some 21+)
If you’re under 18: You can’t legally rent or ride.
Short answer: YES. Get travel insurance that covers motorbike riding.
Long answer: Let me explain why this matters more than you think.
The Insurance Reality Check:
Here’s what most travelers don’t realize:
Many travel insurance policies EXCLUDE motorbike riding.
The fine print says something like:
“Not covered for motorcycles over 125cc”
“Motorbike riding excluded”
“Only covered if you have proper license”
This is HUGE.
You think you’re insured. You crash. Hospital bill is $5,000. Insurance says: “Sorry, motorbike exclusion—we’re not paying.”
You’re screwed.
What Can Go Wrong (Real Costs):
Scenario 1: Minor crash (scrapes, bruises)
Costs:
Pharmacy supplies: 100,000-200,000₫ ($4-8)
Bike damage: 500,000-1,000,000₫ ($20-40)
Total: ~$30-50
Manageable without insurance.
Scenario 2: Moderate crash (broken arm)
Costs:
Painful, but survivable.
Scenario 3: Serious crash (head injury, evacuation)
Costs:
This will bankrupt you.
Real story from last year:
“British guy crashed on Ma Pi Leng. Head injury, unconscious. Helicopter evacuation to Hanoi: $4,500. ICU stay: $8,000. Surgery: $6,000. Total: $18,500. His travel insurance covered everything—but ONLY because he’d bought the adventure sports add-on that specifically covered motorbikes. Without it, he’d be in debt for years.”
How to Get the RIGHT Insurance:
Look for policies that:
✅ Explicitly cover motorbikes
Read the fine print
Check CC limits (some cover up to 125cc, others 150cc, some 200cc+)
✅ Don’t require you to have a full motorcycle license
Some policies accept IDP + home license (which is what you have)
✅ Include medical evacuation
Critical for serious injuries in remote areas
✅ Cover Vietnam specifically
Some policies exclude certain countries
Recommended Insurance Providers:
World Nomads
SafetyWing
True Traveller (UK-based)
ALWAYS call and confirm: “If I crash a 150cc motorbike in Vietnam with my IDP, am I covered?”
Get it in writing if possible.
Motorbike Insurance Is NOT Mandatory, But…
Vietnamese law doesn’t require foreigners to have motorbike insurance.
BUT:
Travel insurance (medical) is basically mandatory (for your own protection)
If you injure someone else, you’re liable
Hospital bills without insurance are devastating
Our recommendation: Buy travel insurance that covers motorbike riding before you leave home.
It costs $30-100 for your trip. A serious accident costs $10,000-40,000.
Okay, practical stuff. You’re in Ha Giang City. Where do you actually rent a bike?
Option 1: Loop Trails Hostel (That’s Us)
Location: 48 Nguyen Du, Ha Giang City
Why rent from us:
✅ Well-maintained fleet
Bikes serviced regularly
Replaced every 2-3 years
You’re not getting a beater
✅ Clear, written contract
Damage policy spelled out
No surprises
You know exactly what you’re agreeing to
✅ Fair pricing
180,000-500,000₫/day depending on bike
No hidden fees
Transparent cost breakdown
✅ 24/7 English support
WhatsApp/phone (we actually answer)
If you break down, we help
Real humans, not just a phone number
✅ Physical location
Actual hostel/shop at 48 Nguyen Du
You know where to find us
We’re not disappearing
✅ Google reviews
Check them (real guests, real experiences)
5+ years in business
Established reputation
✅ Includes:
Quality helmet (not a cracked relic)
Rain poncho
Bungee cords
Basic toolkit
Support if something goes wrong
How to book:
Option A: Book online 👉 Rent Motorbike from Loop Trails
Option B: WhatsApp/Email
Contact us in advance
Reserve your bike
Show up and go
Option C: Walk-in
Come to 48 Nguyen Du
Check availability (busy season = might be fully booked)
Rent same-day if bikes available
Option 2: Other Reputable Operators in Ha Giang
We’re not the only legit option. Here are others with good reputations:
QT Motorbikes & Hostel
Well-known in backpacker community
Similar pricing and service
Good reviews
Jasmine Hotel
Central location
Clean bikes
Fair policies
Ha Giang Backpackers Hostel
Budget-friendly
Honest operation
How to vet any rental place:
✅ Check Google reviews (recent ones, 50+ reviews)
✅ Ask in Ha Giang Loop Facebook groups
✅ Visit the physical shop (not just a guy with bikes)
✅ Ask to see bikes before committing
✅ Get written contract
Option 3: Random Street Rentals (HIGH RISK)
Ha Giang has many small rental operations with signs saying “Motorbike For Rent” or “Xe Máy Cho Thuê.”
Some are fine. Many are sketchy.
How to spot the difference:
✅ Green Flags (Probably Okay):
Actual shop with signage
Multiple bikes visible
Written contract (even basic one)
Owner speaks some English
Clear damage policy posted
You can see other foreigners renting from them
🚩 Red Flags (RUN AWAY):
Just some guy with bikes in his garage/alley
No signage, no storefront
“Trust me, no contract needed”
Pressure to rent immediately (“Last bike!”)
Can’t inspect bike properly before leaving
Vague about damage charges (“We figure out later”)
Price suspiciously low ($3/day = scam)
Won’t give you their phone number
Requires passport AND large cash deposit
My honest advice: Stick with established hostels/operators.
The $2/day you might save renting from random-garage-guy isn’t worth the risk of:
Bike breaking down with no support
Getting charged $500 for fake damages
Bike being stolen and you’re liable
No recourse if something goes wrong
How Rental Scams Work (Be Aware):
Scam #1: The Pre-Existing Damage
How it works:
They don’t document bike condition properly before you leave
You return bike
They “discover” scratches/damage (that was already there)
Charge you $200-500 from your deposit
How to avoid:
Take photos/videos of EVERY scratch, dent, broken part
Timestamp visible
Make them acknowledge existing damage in writing
Send photos to yourself (proof of date/time)
Scam #2: The Breakdown Extortion
How it works:
How to avoid:
Scam #3: The Disappearing Deposit
How it works:
How to avoid:
Final Rental Checklist (Before You Leave With The Bike):
✅ Documents:
Contract signed (you keep a copy)
Damage checklist completed
Deposit receipt received
Their contact number saved in your phone
✅ Bike Inspection:
Test ride around block
Brakes work (front and rear)
Horn works
Lights work (headlight, tail light, turn signals)
Fuel gauge works
No major leaks (oil, gas)
Tires have tread, not bald
Photos taken of every existing scratch/damage
✅ Includes:
Helmet (fits properly, not cracked)
Rain poncho
Bungee cords
Bike registration papers
If anything’s wrong, DON’T leave until it’s fixed or you get a different bike.
Final Thoughts: Rent Smart, Ride Safe
Look, Ha Giang Loop is incredible. Don’t let a bad rental experience ruin it.
The smart move:
Rent from an established operator with good reviews
Get a bike that matches your skill level
Have your IDP (it’s $20, just get it)
Buy travel insurance that covers motorbikes
Document everything before you leave
Ride within your limits
The $20-40 extra you might spend renting from a legit place vs. the sketchy $5/day guy?
That’s the best money you’ll spend. Because when you’re cruising through Ma Pi Leng Pass on a well-maintained bike, with proper support, legal documents, and insurance—you can actually enjoy Ha Giang instead of stressing about your bike dying or getting scammed.
That’s what we want for you.
Ready to Rent?
Book Your Ha Giang Motorbike Rental
Choose your bike:
Honda Wave Alpha 110cc: 180,000₫/day ($7) – Perfect for beginners
Yamaha PG-1 114cc: 300,000₫/day ($12) – Comfort upgrade
Honda Winner X 150cc: 350,000₫/day ($14) – Experienced riders
Honda XR150L Dirt Bike: 500,000₫/day ($20) – Maximum comfort
Includes: Helmet, rain poncho, bungee cords, toolkit, 24/7 support
Location: Loop Trails Hostel, 48 Nguyen Du, Ha Giang City
Doing the Full Loop Tour? Bike Is Included:
If you book our self-drive tour, the bike rental is included in the tour price.
3-Day Self-Drive Tour: 3,390,000₫ ($135) – includes Wave Alpha
Upgrade to PG-1: +900,000₫ total
Upgrade to Winner X: +1,050,000₫ total
Prefer Not to Ride?
Easy Rider Tour: 3,990,000₫ ($159)
You ride passenger, local driver handles everything
Still Have Questions?
👉 WhatsApp Us 24/7: [Contact Link]
Common questions:
“Which bike should I choose for my height/experience?”
“Can I rent for 4 days instead of 3?”
“What if I want to do Ha Giang-Cao Bang 5-day?”
“Do you offer delivery to my hotel?”
We’ll help you figure it out.
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Last Updated: December 2025 | Author: Loop Trails Team
Word Count: ~7,200 words
