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Top 5 Best Motorbike Rental Shops in Chiang Mai

Planning to ride the Mae Hong Son Loop or just explore the Old City? We ranked the top 5 trusted motorbike rental shops in Chiang Mai that offer insurance, fair contracts, and no passport deposit options.

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Chiang Mai is the motorcycling capital of Thailand. From the winding curves of the Samoeng Loop to the bustling lanes of Nimman, there is no better way to explore the "Rose of the North" than on two wheels. However, finding a reliable bike can be tricky. You want a shop that maintains its brakes, offers fair contracts, and most importantly, doesn't hold your passport hostage.

The standard for rentals has risen. We have tested and ranked the Top 5 Motorbike Rental Shops in Chiang Mai that are safe, reliable, and open right now.

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1. Cat Motors

Cat Motors

Highlight

The "No Passport Deposit" Specialist


Ranked #1 for their traveler-friendly policies and transparent service. Cat Motors is famous for explicitly advertising a "No Passport Deposit" policy; you can leave a cash deposit instead (usually 3,000–5,000 THB depending on the bike). Their fleet is diverse, ranging from standard Honda Clicks to touring bikes like the Honda CB500X for those planning the Mae Hong Son Loop. They also provide detailed maps and honest advice about road conditions.


Opening Time: Daily, 08:00 – 18:00.


Location: 195 Ratchamanka Road, Phra Sing (Old City).


How to get there:

Taxi/Red Truck: It is located in the Old City, just a 5-minute walk from Wat Phra Singh. Tell the driver "Cat Motors, Ratchamanka Road."


Pikul

2. Bamboo Bikes Chiang Mai

Bamboo Bikes Chiang Mai

Highlight

The Trustworthy Expat Favorite


Run by an Australian owner, Bamboo Bikes brings Western service standards to Chiang Mai. They are legendary for not scamming tourists. They do a thorough check of the bike with you before you leave, marking down every scratch so you aren't charged later. They accept a cash deposit (2,000 THB) instead of your passport. It’s a small shop, but the bikes are maintained to perfection.


Opening Time: Daily, 07:00 – 18:00.


Location: Somphet Gold Place, 70/20 Chaiyapoom Road.


How to get there:

Taxi/Red Truck: Head to Somphet Market (near the Moon Muang Road side of the moat). Walk into the small alley (Soi) next to the market; the shop is about 50 meters inside.

Pikul

3. Mango Bikes Rent

Mango Bikes Rent

Highlight

The Best Service in Nimman


If you are staying in the trendy Nimman area, Mango Bikes is the go-to spot. They are highly rated for their friendly, English-speaking staff and organized booking system. Their website is one of the best in town, allowing you to see exactly what is in stock. They specialize in newer scooters (Yamaha Grand Filano, Honda Scoopy) that are perfect for city riding. They also offer a cash deposit option.


Opening Time: Daily, 09:00 – 18:00.


Location: Srithana Condo 2, Sirimangkalajarn Road Lane 1 (Nimman area).

Google Map: Link to Map


How to get there:

Taxi/Red Truck: Tell the driver "Srithana Condo 2" or "Kad Suan Kaew Mall". It is located in the lane connecting Nimman and the Old City area (Suthep).


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See also
Pikul

4. Zippy Motorbikes

Zippy Motorbikes

Highlight

The Mechanical Guarantee


Zippy is a family-owned business that takes mechanics seriously. They offer a unique "Mechanical Guarantee", if the bike breaks down within a certain distance (excluding accidents), they cover it. This peace of mind is huge if you are planning a long mountain ride to Doi Suthep. Their contracts are clear, in English, and they are very strict about maintaining their fleet to high safety standards.


Opening Time: Daily, 09:00 – 19:00.


Location: 54/2 Santirak Road (Santitham Area).


How to get there:

Taxi: It is in the Santitham neighborhood (north of the Old City). It’s best to take a Grab or Red Truck to "Santitham Circle" and walk, or show the driver the map.


Pikul

5. Mr. Mechanic

Mr. Mechanic

Highlight

The Big Bike Legend


Operating for over 20 years, Mr. Mechanic is an institution. If you need a serious bike—like a Honda CRF 250 Rally or a Kawasaki Versys, this is the place. They have multiple branches in the Old City and their own dedicated service center. While they rent scooters too, they are the first choice for riders who need proper gear (helmets, gloves, boxes) and a bike capable of handling steep mountain passes.


Opening Time: Daily, 08:00 – 17:30.


Location: 4 Soi 5 Moon Muang Road (Branch 1).


How to get there:

Taxi/Red Truck: Located near Tha Pae Gate. Walk along Moon Muang Road and turn into Soi 5. You will see their big signs.


Pikul

Rider's Checklist for Chiang Mai (2025)

  1. Police Checkpoints: Chiang Mai police set up daily checkpoints around the Old City Moat (especially near Gov. Corner and Tha Pae Gate). You MUST have an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorcycle stamp. The fine is 500-1,000 THB.
  2. Mountain Roads: If riding up Doi Suthep, rent at least a 125cc bike. A 110cc scooter will struggle with two people on the steep incline.
  3. Helmet: Always wear one. Not just for the law, but because mountain roads can be slippery and dangerous.

by Thairanked Guide

December 04, 2025 08:36 PM

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