Chiang Mai is a city that comes alive on two wheels. From the ancient temples within the Old City’s moat to the mist-covered mountains beyond, a scooter gives you the freedom to chase experiences that buses and tuk-tuks can’t touch. I’ve been riding these roads for years, based out of Chiang Mai as an expat with a passion for remote trails, local khao soi stalls, and the kind of switchbacks that make your heart race. Over time, I’ve rented from countless shops, dealt with breakdowns, haggled over repair bills, and learned what makes a rental shop worth your time. This guide breaks down my top five scooter rental picks in Chiang Mai, with Cat Motors Rentals leading the pack for reasons I’ll get into. Whether you’re planning a quick ride to Doi Suthep or a multi-day adventure to Mae Hong Son, here’s what you need to know to pick the right shop and hit the road with confidence.
Why Rent a Scooter in Chiang Mai?
Riding a scooter in Chiang Mai isn’t just about getting around—it’s about immersing yourself in the city’s rhythm and beyond. Imagine weaving through the narrow sois of the Old City, the air thick with the scent of grilling satay, then breaking free onto a mountain road where the jungle hums and the horizon stretches wide. A scooter lets you move at your own pace, stopping for a mango sticky rice at a roadside stall or pausing to watch monks climb to a hilltop temple. Cars lack that nimbleness, and group tours miss the spontaneity. With a bike, you’re not just passing through—you’re part of the landscape.
Chiang Mai’s layout is tailor-made for scooters. The Old City, with its 700-year-old moat and temples like Wat Phra Singh, is compact but often clogged with traffic. A scooter lets you slip through jams, especially during festivals like Songkran, when the streets become a joyous, water-soaked chaos. Beyond the city, Northern Thailand’s roads are a rider’s playground. The Samoeng Loop winds 100 kilometers through rolling hills and quiet villages. Chiang Dao’s limestone peaks, 75 kilometers north, feel like another world. Mae Kampong, a mountain village 50 kilometers away, offers tea plantations and wooden homestays that feel frozen in time. I wrote about my ride there, and it’s a journey that lingers.
The real magic happens in the moments between destinations. You might stumble on a hidden waterfall, share a laugh with a vendor pouring gas from a whiskey bottle, or catch a sunset over rice fields that turns the sky to gold. A reliable scooter makes these moments possible; a bad one leaves you stranded or nickel-and-dimed. That’s why the rental shop you choose matters. You need a bike that can handle a mountain pass and a shop that won’t gouge you for a scratched mirror. A good rental is your partner in discovering Chiang Mai’s soul—choose wisely, and the road opens up.
My Criteria for Choosing the Best Scooter Rentals
After years of riding and renting, I’ve honed a checklist for what makes a rental shop stand out:
- Scooter Condition: The bike needs to feel solid, with good brakes, fresh tires, and an engine that doesn’t sputter.
- Clear Terms: No vague policies or surprise fees when you return the bike.
- Location: Ideally near the Old City or Nimman, where most travelers stay.
- Support: Insurance, roadside assistance, or staff who answer the phone when you’re stuck.
- Value: Fair prices for reliable scooters, whether for a day or a month.
With that in mind, here’s my top five, based on real rides and real experiences. I’ve included links to their websites, along with operating hours and rental terms where available. For social media updates, check their official sites or search for their pages on platforms like Facebook.
1. Cat Motors
Cat Motors | Facebook
Hours: 8 AM–6 PM daily
Terms: Monthly rentals from 3,000–3,500 THB for 125cc scooters; deposit 3,000 THB (cash, no passport required); includes medical coverage up to 300,000 THB and roadside assistance; full terms on their website.
Cat Motors is my top pick, hands down. This family-run shop, just 500 meters from Wat Phra Singh in the Old City, feels like a well-kept secret. Their scooters aren’t the cheapest—monthly rentals for a 125cc like a Honda Click or Yamaha NMax run 3,000–3,500 THB—but they’re worth every baht. Every bike I’ve rented from them has been in excellent shape, with responsive throttles, reliable brakes, and tires that grip the road. Their honesty sets them apart: the contract is straightforward, repair costs are fair (a scratched panel won’t bankrupt you), and they include medical coverage up to 300,000 THB plus roadside assistance. That’s the kind of peace of mind you want when you’re riding to Chiang Dao or beyond.
My favorite memory with Cat Motors was renting a Honda PCX for a trip to Mae Kampong last year. The 50-kilometer ride is a mix of smooth highways and tight mountain turns, with views of green hills and tea plantations that make you forget the world. I wrote about it on the blog, and the PCX was a big part of why it was so unforgettable. Halfway up, a sudden rain hit, but the bike’s brakes and handling kept me steady. When I picked up the scooter, the staff took their time explaining its quirks, handed me a proper-fitting helmet, and even recommended a khao soi spot near Mae On. They’re riders themselves, and it shows—they care about your trip, not just your wallet.
For long-term scooter rentals in Chiang Mai, Cat Motors shines. Their prices haven’t climbed in years, which is rare in Chiang Mai’s inflating market. You get well-maintained scooters built for more than just city streets, ready for cross-province adventures. Visit their [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/CatMotorsChiangMai/) for availability and route ideas.
2. TBB Tours and Rentals
TBB Tours and Rentals
Hours: 9 AM–5 PM daily
Terms: Daily rentals from 350 THB, monthly from 3,500 THB; deposit 3,000–5,000 THB or passport; basic insurance included; full terms on their website.
TBB Tours and Rentals is a reliable option, especially if you want variety. Located just outside the Old City, they’re accessible from Nimman or Thapae Gate. Their fleet ranges from 125cc scooters like the Honda Scoopy to bigger bikes like the Honda CB500X for longer hauls. Daily rates start at 350 THB, with monthly deals around 3,500 THB, which is fair for the quality.
I rented a Scoopy from TBB for the Samoeng Loop, a 100-kilometer ride through forests and strawberry farms. The bike was solid, but the tires felt slightly worn, which made wet corners a bit unnerving. Their customer service is friendly, and they offer insurance, though it’s less comprehensive than Cat Motors’ coverage. One catch is their deposit policy—expect to leave 3,000–5,000 THB or your passport, which isn’t ideal. In high season, their prices can climb, and I’ve heard of riders paying steep repair fees for minor damage, like a broken headlight costing nearly double what Cat Motors would charge. Still, TBB’s range and reliability make them a strong pick for day trips or guided tours. Visit their website for booking details and terms.
3. Aya Service
Aya Service
Hours: 8 AM–6 PM daily
Terms: Daily rentals from 300 THB, monthly from 3,800 THB; deposit up to 5,000 THB or passport; basic insurance included; see their website for details.
Aya Service is a well-established name, offering scooters and cars just outside the Old City. Their fleet includes Honda Scoopy, Yamaha Grand Filano, and 150cc models, with daily rates from 300 THB and monthly rates around 3,800 THB. They’re popular with expats for their long-term deals and English-speaking staff, which makes the process smooth.
I rented a Grand Filano from Aya for a weekend ride to Mon Cham, a hilltop viewpoint with wildflower fields and cafes. The scooter was decent, but the tires showed wear, and the throttle felt sluggish on steep climbs. Their deposit requirements—up to 5,000 THB or a passport—feel a bit old-school, and repair costs can add up. A friend paid 2,500 THB for a cracked side panel, which seemed high compared to Cat Motors’ pricing. Aya’s strength is availability; you’ll likely find a bike even in peak season. Their scooters aren’t always the newest, so inspect carefully before riding off. Check their website for terms and contact info.
4. POP Motorbike Rental
POP Motorbike Rental
Hours: 9 AM–5 PM daily
Terms: Daily rentals from 350 THB, monthly from 3,500 THB; deposit 3,000 THB; basic insurance and helmets included; full terms on their website.
POP Motorbike Rental is a smaller operation near Nimman, known for its personal touch. Their scooters, mostly Honda Clicks and Yamaha Aerox, are generally well-maintained, with daily rates around 350 THB and monthly rates near 3,500 THB. They include helmets and basic insurance, which is a plus.
I took a Click from POP for a day trip to the Sticky Waterfall (Bua Tong), a 60-kilometer ride north of Chiang Mai. The bike handled well, though the suspension felt stiff on bumpy roads. Their staff are approachable, but their repair policies can be strict—expect to pay 1,500–2,000 THB for minor damage like a scratched fender, which is pricier than Cat Motors. POP’s location is convenient for Nimman-based riders, but less so if you’re in the Old City. Visit their website for booking and terms.
5. CK Motorbike Rental
CK Motorbike Rental
Hours: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM daily
Terms: Daily rentals from 300 THB, monthly from 3,600 THB; deposit 3,000–4,000 THB; basic insurance included.
CK Motorbike Rental rounds out the list, located near the Night Bazaar. They offer a range of scooters, from Yamaha Fino to Honda ADV 160, with daily rates starting at 300 THB and monthly rates around 3,600 THB. Their bikes are decent, but I’ve noticed inconsistency—some are near-new, others show their age.
I rented a Fino from CK for a quick ride to the Grand Canyon Water Park, about 15 kilometers south of the city. The bike was fine for a short trip, but the brakes felt soft, and I wouldn’t trust it for a long haul like the Mae Hong Son Loop. Their staff are efficient, but the deposit (3,000–4,000 THB) and repair costs can sting. A rider I know paid 2,000 THB for a broken mirror, which felt excessive. CK is a good backup if other shops are booked, but check the bike thoroughly.
Fines and Riding Specifics in Thailand and Chiang Mai
Riding in Thailand comes with rules you need to know to avoid fines or trouble:
- International Driver’s License: You need one with Category A for motorcycles. Police checkpoints are common near Doi Suthep or Thapae Gate. No license means a 500–1,000 THB fine.
- Helmets: Mandatory, with fines of 200–500 THB for non-compliance. Cat Motors provides quality helmets; others might give you flimsy ones, so check fit and condition.
- Speed Limits: 60 km/h in the city, 80 km/h on highways. Speeding fines range from 500–2,000 THB, though police may negotiate. Stick to limits on busy roads like Route 107 to Chiang Dao.
- Alcohol: The legal limit is 0.05% BAC. A DUI can cost 20,000 THB or more, plus potential jail time. Don’t risk it.
- Checkpoints: Frequent during Songkran or high season. Carry your license, rental agreement, and passport copy. A smile and politeness help.
- Parking: Avoid red-and-white curbs (no parking zones). Fines are 500 THB, and your bike could be towed. Use designated parking near temples or markets.
Chiang Mai has its own quirks. Songkran’s water fights make roads slippery, so good brakes and tires are critical. Monsoon season (June–October) brings rain, especially on mountain roads to Mae Kampong—choose a scooter with solid grip. Fuel is easy to find in the city (30–40 THB per liter at stations), but rural areas rely on shops selling gas in bottles (40–50 THB per liter). Plan ahead for long rides.
Where to Ride in Chiang Mai
A scooter unlocks Chiang Mai’s best destinations. Here are my top routes, tested over years of riding:
- Doi Suthep (15 km): A winding climb to a hilltop temple with panoramic city views. Stop at Huay Kaew Waterfall on the way back. Ideal for a half-day ride.
- Samoeng Loop (100 km): A full-day circuit through hills, villages, and strawberry farms. The road is smooth, but watch for gravel on corners. Cafes like The Hidden Village are great stops.
- Chiang Dao (75 km): Ride north on Route 107 to limestone peaks, caves, and hot springs. The road is mostly flat, but trucks can be a hazard. Bring a jacket for chilly mornings.
- Mae Kampong (50 km): A mountain village with tea plantations, waterfalls, and homestays. The road climbs steeply, so you need a reliable scooter. Read my full Mae Kampong guide for tips.
- Sticky Waterfall (Bua Tong, 60 km): A unique waterfall you can climb due to its grippy limestone. The ride is scenic, with quiet farmlands and small villages.
- Mon Cham (40 km): A hilltop with wildflower fields and cafes. The road is narrow but manageable, with stunning views at the top.
- Mae Sa Valley (30 km): A lush valley with elephant sanctuaries, orchid farms, and the Mae Sa Waterfall. Perfect for a relaxed day ride.
- Grand Canyon Water Park (15 km): A fun spot south of the city with cliffs, lagoons, and cafes. Great for a short escape.
Each route offers something unique, from the spiritual calm of Doi Suthep to the rugged beauty of Chiang Dao’s peaks. A dependable scooter from a shop like Cat Motors makes these trips seamless. Lesser shops, with older bikes or unclear terms, can turn a great ride into a headache—I’ve been stuck on a roadside with a sputtering engine, wishing I’d chosen better.
Why Cat Motors Stands Out
After countless rides, Cat Motors remains my benchmark. Their scooters are built for the long haul, not just city jaunts. That Mae Kampong trip was a perfect example. The Honda PCX I rented felt like an extension of me, handling every twist and rain-slicked turn with ease. The family running the shop didn’t just hand me keys; they shared a quick story about their own rides to Mae On, making me feel like a friend. Their 300,000 THB medical coverage and roadside assistance meant I could focus on the scenery, not worst-case scenarios.
Compare that to other experiences. Some shops rent bikes that feel one pothole away from breaking down. I’ve paid inflated repair bills—like 3,000 THB for a headlight that should’ve cost half that—or dealt with shops that vanish when you call for help. Cat Motors’ fair pricing and reliable scooters make them the clear winner, especially for riders exploring beyond Chiang Mai’s borders. Their website and Facebook page are great resources for route planning and booking.
Tips for Renting and Riding in Chiang Mai
Here’s what I’ve learned from years on the road:
- Check the Bike: Test brakes, tires, lights, and throttle before leaving. Take photos or a video to document the condition. Cat Motors encourages this; others might rush you.
- Read the Fine Print: Ask about repair costs, insurance, and deposits. Cat Motors’ clear terms spoiled me—other shops can be vague.
- Songkran Prep: Wet roads and water guns are fun but tricky. Ensure your scooter has good brakes and tires.
- Fuel Strategy: Fill up in the city (30–40 THB per liter at stations). Rural shops charge more for bottled gas.
- Route Planning: Use Smallish Moto Adventures’ guides for routes like Mae Kampong or Samoeng Loop. Cat Motors’ website also has putevoditeli (guides) for planning.
- Stay Legal: Carry your international license and wear a helmet. Checkpoints are common near Thapae Gate or on Route 1006 to Samoeng.
Final Thoughts
Chiang Mai’s roads are a rider’s playground, but your experience hinges on the scooter and the shop behind it. Cat Motors leads my list for their reliable bikes, fair terms, and genuine care—qualities that shine on long rides to places like Mae Kampong or Chiang Dao. TBB, Aya, POP, and CK are solid options, but each has quirks, from high deposits to inconsistent fleets. Pick a shop that matches your plans, inspect your bike, and ride with confidence. Northern Thailand is waiting.
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