Best Motorcycles to Buy in Thailand
From city scooters to touring and big bikes: choose a motorcycle that suits your roads, budget, experience and plans.
Choose the motorcycle for the roads you will actually ride
A bike that feels ideal in Bangkok traffic may not be comfortable for a long-distance mountain trip. Before choosing a model, think about daily distance, parking, passenger use, storage, wet-weather riding, road conditions and whether you prefer an automatic or manual gearbox.
Scooters and lightweight commuters
Automatic scooters
Consider familiar categories such as Honda Click or Yamaha Grand Filano-style scooters for easy stop-start riding, practical storage and day-to-day errands. Compare actual seat height, braking equipment and service support rather than buying on appearance alone.
Small manual and semi-automatic bikes
Honda Wave-style underbones and lightweight commuter motorcycles appeal to riders prioritising simplicity, economy and everyday practicality. Check gearbox preference, passenger comfort and whether the bike can handle your intended distances.
Touring, adventure and big bikes
Mid-capacity touring motorcycles
Models in the Honda CB500X/NX500 or similar adventure-touring category may offer a useful balance of highway capability and manageable size. Test the riding position, luggage options, heat management and low-speed handling.
Big bikes and performance models
Larger motorcycles offer more power and specialised capabilities, but typically demand greater skill, parking space and expenditure on tyres, insurance and maintenance. A bigger engine is not automatically a better choice for Thailand.
Which motorcycle category fits your plans?
| Category | Best suited to | Trade-offs to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Automatic scooter | City trips, errands and everyday convenience | Storage and highway comfort vary widely by model |
| Small commuter / underbone | Budget-conscious daily transport | Less comfort and luggage capacity for extended touring |
| Mid-size touring / adventure | Mixed roads and longer journeys | Higher purchase and running costs; taller or heavier feel |
| Large performance / touring | Experienced riders with specific riding needs | Weight, heat, fuel, tyres, insurance and parking |
These are broad categories, not a ranking or a promise that any particular model is suitable. Specifications and availability vary by model year and Thai dealership.
New or used? Make the decision with the paperwork in mind
Buying new can make warranty coverage, dealer support and registration arrangements more straightforward. Buying used can reduce the upfront price, but it makes service history, condition, the green book and ownership transfer especially important.
Buying new
Get an itemised on-road quote, check the exact model and warranty, and confirm when registration and the green book will be ready.
Read the new-bike guide →Buying used
Inspect the motorcycle, match engine and frame identifiers to its records, and verify that the seller can legally complete the transfer.
Read the used-bike guide →Also read our new-versus-used price guide and foreign ownership guide before committing.
Protect the motorcycle you choose
Compulsory Por Ror Bor insurance is required for road use, but it is not the same as broad cover for theft, damage to your own motorcycle or third-party property. Compare optional policies for the bike's value and how you ride.
Know your coverage before you ride.
Understand compulsory and optional motorcycle insurance in Thailand.
Explore motorcycle insurance →
Three rider essentials worth choosing carefully
A well-fitting certified helmet, protective gloves and a jacket appropriate for Thailand's conditions matter whatever bike you choose.
Motorbike Helmets
Motorbike Gloves
Motorbike JacketsFrequently asked questions
What is the best motorcycle for a beginner in Thailand?
A manageable, comfortable motorcycle with predictable controls and suitable training is generally more important than engine size or styling. Try the fit and controls before deciding, and ensure you hold the correct licence.
Is a scooter enough for riding in Thailand?
For many city and short-distance trips, yes. Longer highway journeys, passenger use and steep roads may change what is comfortable and appropriate.
Should I buy a new or used motorcycle?
New motorcycles may offer easier warranty and dealer support; used motorcycles may offer lower purchase prices but require careful mechanical and paperwork checks.
Can foreigners buy motorcycles in Thailand?
Foreigners can generally purchase motorcycles, subject to the registration and documentation requirements that apply to their circumstances. Check the current process with the relevant Department of Land Transport office.
Do I need motorcycle insurance?
Compulsory motor insurance is required for registered road-going motorcycles. Optional cover may provide protection beyond the compulsory policy.
Choose your bike. Discover the road.
Explore JLIT's collection of 72 motorcycle routes around Thailand and find a ride worth planning.
Explore motorcycle routes →