FAQs

Please be informed, that our tours are fully inclusive (motorcycle rental; accommodation; fuel; tour guide; all entry fees; all meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner; soft drinks, and much much more …) So you can completely focus on your holiday, the adventure and the riding. There are no hidden costs or other surprises – our tour prices are the final prices. Fact! Only the beer in the evening you have to pay by yourself … LOL

Provisional Tour booking requires a specific date, choice of motorcycle model, and a minimum 10% deposit, or for international tours 25% deposit paid immediately. A deposit will be fully refunded for tour cancellations more than 30 days before the tour starts (excluding bank charges or any other costs incurred in the transfer).
A deposit is non-refundable if the booking is canceled less than 30 days before the starting date of the hire. The full hire fee is to be paid 14 days before the Tour start date, for the booking to be confirmed. If the guest does not commit to payment 14 days before the Tour start date, the booking may be canceled.

Big Bike Tours Tour Cancellations will incur the following charges:
30 Days to 15 Days 30% of the Tour price
14 Days to 8 Days 50% of the Tour price
7 Days or less 100% of the Tour price

Yes. Reservations are required for guaranteed spots on all tours. Reservations help us determine the number of guides we need to ensure that our groups remain manageable and enjoyable, and they allow us to notify you of changes to the tour due to weather or anything that could disturb the tours.

The tour is, of course, possible to book. Please contact us for further details and information.

In most cases yes! There is a minimum number of riders required to operate a scheduled motorbike tour. However, as our minimum amount required is only two riders in most cases we can fit you in a tour with other riders already booked, if not, providing you give us some notice we can take a reservation from you and open it up for others to join your tour thus making the minimum required number. At the end of the day be sure to contact us!

Most customers touring with us usually come from Bangkok, and in this case, we recommend traveling up to Chiang Mai by one of the many flights operating on this route. It is not expensive and with companies such as Air Asia (www.airasia.com) or Bangkok Airways (www.bangkokair.com). The earlier you book, the cheaper the flight. The train (night train) is another option; however, the Thai train network needs a serious overhaul! Take a look at the difference between the train and the flight costs compared to one hour of flying time or a 12-hour train journey along with the fact that the trains are notoriously unreliable. The train option is usually the odd one out! Also, a lot of buses start every hour from Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit – Chatuchak) to Chiang Mai. Travel time with the bus will be around 8 hours.

We can accept payments for our motorbike tours in the following currencies, calculated at the current Bangkok Bank exchange rate against the Thai Baht at the time of booking:  US Dollar, Euro, British Pound, Australian Dollar, New Zealand Dollar, Singapore Dollar. Canadian Dollar and Swiss Franc.

No! You can pay deposits and final balances for your motorcycle tour via local bank transfer, with most major debit cards, or you can even pay cash on arrival.

TOUR OPERATOR INFORMATION
Tour Operator: Big Bike Tours (Thailand) Ltd., Part.
Association of Thailand (TAT License 21-00758)
Website: www.bigbiketours.com
Contact: info@bigbiketours.com
Address: 134 Ragang Rd, Chang Khlan, 50100 Chiang Mai, THAILAND
Google Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/mzcjvJtzupf4umFS9
Tel.: +66 801-272-595 (WhatsApp)

RESERVATION, FIRST PAYMENT, FINAL PAYMENT     
1. All tours are to be reserved and confirmed by email, establishing a binding agreement between the tour participant(s) and Big Bike Tours as the tour operator.
2. A reservation shall not be formally confirmed until 10% (or 25% for international tours) of the amount payable is received as a down payment into Big Bike Tours bank accounts.
3. The remaining percent of the amount payable should be received in Big Bike Tours bank account (see here under) no later than 30 days (or 60 days for international tours) before the tour starts. Failure to pay the balance on time will result in a termination of service. Big Bike Tours is not obliged to refund the down payment.

PERSONAL TRAVEL INSURANCE

Having valid travel / medical insurance is mandatory for the duration of your tour with us.

Travel insurance policies and providers will vary depending on each individual person’s details (age, health conditions, etc.) and also by nationality/country of residence; therefore, we cannot provide insurance advice on which policy is best for you.

We can only suggest that, if possible, you have a policy designed for motorcycle touring and other adventurous activities and covers you for incidents including (but not limited to):

• cancellation & curtailment
• personal accident
• medical and repatriation costs
• loss, damage and theft of your belongings
• third party liability.

For reference only, some of our previous guests have used these global travel insurance providers:

Safety Wing: https://safetywing.com

CSM LTD: https://csmltd.com/medical/motorcycle-touring-medical-insurance/

World Nomads: https://www.worldnomads.com/

ADAC: https://www.adac.de/produkte/versicherungen/reiseversicherungen/
(for German customers)

BOOKING AND CANCELLATION POLICY
Provisional Tour booking requires a specific date, choice of motorcycle model, and a minimum 10% deposit (or 25% for international tours) paid immediately. A deposit will be fully refunded for tour cancellations more than 30 days before the tour starts (excluding bank charges or any other costs incurred in the transfer).
A deposit is non-refundable if the booking is canceled less than 30 days before the starting date of the hire. The full hire fee is to be paid 30 days before the Tour start date, for the booking to be confirmed. If the guest does not commit to payment 30 days before the Tour start date, the booking may be canceled.

Big Bike Tours Tour Cancellations will incur the following charges:
30 Days to 15 Days 25% of the Tour price
14 Days to 8 Days 50% of the Tour price
7 Days or less 100% of the Tour price

If Big Bike Tours cancels your booking

Big Bike Tours may cancel your trip only when we have notified you of the minimum number of participants required for a certain tour at the time of your booking AND in case of Force Majeure (see here under) AND in case we do not receive your down payment within the stipulated period (see above) In case Big Bike Tours must cancel, we will notify you as follows:

More than 10 Day Tours: Notice of cancellation 45 days before tour start

Between 3 and 10 Day Tours: Notice of cancellation 30 days before tour start

Big Bike Tours reserves the right to cancel your tour under any and all circumstances. If Big Bike Tours cancels your trip, you can either have a full refund of your payments up to the cancellation date, OR you can accept an alternative tour of equivalent or similar standard and price, IF we are in a position to offer you one. Should you choose the latter option, the terms and conditions of your tour will remain unchanged and be applicable to your booking. Big Bike Tours will refund the difference in price if the alternative tour is of a lower standard and/or price. Big Bike Tours will not cancel your trip less than six weeks before you enter Thailand, unless the cancellation is due to one of the events or conditions as described hereunder, in “Force Majeure”.

Force Majeure

Force Majeure includes – but is not limited to – war, threat of war, widespread public riots/ civil disturbances, terrorist activity and its direct results/consequences, industrial disputes, regime change, failure to secure relevant flying rights, natural and nuclear disasters, fire, epidemics/ pandemics, unavoidable and/or unforeseeable technical problems with transport for reasons beyond our control or that of our suppliers; closed or congested airports or ports, hurricanes, blizzards and suchlike restrictive, severe weather conditions.

LICENSES
All motorcycle riders must have a valid motorcycle license, have had the license for 2 years or more, and must be over 21 years old. The guest will be required to produce their original driver’s license and passport before commencing the tour.

LIABILITY
Big Bike Tours makes every effort to safeguard our clients; we cannot be held responsible for personal injury or loss due to events that are beyond our control. Participants should note that motorcycle travel involves a higher-than-normal risk and a signed release is required by Big Bike Tours from all motorcycle riders and passengers before the tour commences. Big Bike Tours do not guarantee pick-up or drop-off times and are not liable for passengers connecting to flights, trains, etc. Big Bike Tours accepts no responsibility for loss or damage to personal belongings or baggage.

TRAFFIC FINES        
On completion of the tour, all speeding tickets, camera speeding fines, parking fines, or any other traffic fines will be paid by Big Bike Tours.

MOTORCYCLE SAFE RIDING CONDITIONS        
Big Bike Tours wishes to maintain the highest standards of safety to ensure the well-being of our guests. We therefore only ride the motorcycles in conditions where there is full visibility during daylight hours, and when vision is not impaired by heavy rain. Motorcycles may only be ridden from sunrise to sunset. Only in the case of a late arrival may Big Bike Tours motorcycles be ridden, and at reduced speed to reach the next destination. When rainfall occurs, speed must be reduced to a sensible, safe wet road surface handling speed based on the rider’s skill until the nearest shelter is reached.

ITINERARY DISCLAIMER    
Big Bike Tours itineraries may change as we make improvements to our tours. Our brochures are updated when tour itineraries change, or the need arises. Big Bike Tours reserves the right to amend the tour route due to roadworks, weather conditions, or our new research information on routes. No refunds will be given due to any route change.

MOTORCYCLE PROTECTIVE GEAR         
Big Bike Tours strongly recommends that all protective clothing be worn. Big Bike Tours provides all motorcycle protective gear. If you require any special-size clothing, it would be preferable to bring protective clothing with you. In Thailand, motorcycle helmets are compulsory, and boots, protective clothing, and gloves for riders and passengers are strongly advised.

MEALS AND ALCOHOL      
Big Bike Tours provides breakfast at the hotel, normally an international buffet, and lunch & dinner at a restaurant during the day tour, normally Thai food. If you have any specific dietary requirements, please inform us when booking so we can make the appropriate arrangements for you. The Companion vehicle always carries cool bottled water and cool refresher towels. Snacks can be purchased during stops. Big Bike Tours does not provide any alcohol on Tour and does not allow any alcohol consumption during the day while motorcycles are in use. Guests may consume alcohol in the evening when the motorcycles are not in use.

TOUR GROUP SIZE 
Tour may commence with not less than 2 riders. If a tour has fewer than 4 participants booked, a support truck may not be available. However, we will provide panniers with inlays and top boxes, allowing you to carry your luggage comfortably on your bike. Additionally, there will be extra space on the tour guide’s motorcycle. Any luggage you don’t need during the tour can be safely stored at our office.

TRANSFERS
Big Bike Tours will collect you from the airport, hotel, or your accommodation at the beginning of the tour. This service will not be available for self-guided tours.

FUEL
All fuel is supplied by Big Bike Tours on all our guided tours.

DAMAGE OR TECHNICAL FAILURES       
Any damage or mechanical or electrical failure on any Big Bike Tours motorcycle must be reported to the tour leader immediately. Included in the tour price is standard motorcycle damage insurance which covers you for incidental damages. You will be liable for the first 1,000 USD in any claim, and in the event of a write-off (never happened yet), you will be liable for 5,000 USD. We do offer an upgrade to this insurance, bringing the liability down to 300 USD and 1,500 USD respectively if you wish to upgrade it (30 USD per bike and day). Please note this is only applicable to tours within Thailand.

CLOTHING AND THAI SEASONS   
Casual clothing is used everywhere, except when visiting temples, where short pants and skirts are not traditionally acceptable. The 3 seasons in Thailand are winter, rainy (green) season, and summer.
WINTER – from October to February: With such a great time to take a motorbike tour from October to February. This is the best time to ride Motorbikes in Northern Thailand with warm temperatures, clear blue skies, sun, hardly any rain, and forests alive with fresh, lush greenery from the recent monsoon season. Most of our motorbike pictures on this website were taken this time of the year!
SUMMER – from March to June: Northern Thailand is without a doubt the premier destination to ride motorcycles in Asia. So it is best to choose the time of the year when you will get maximum enjoyment from the country. However, please be informed that March and April are the hottest months of the year. Temperatures can be up to 40 degrees at this time (“Hot Session”). May and June, the temperatures drop to pleasantly 30 degrees with a big riding fun guarantee.
RAINY (GREEN) SEASON – from July to October: This time of the year will add great adventure to your motorbike tour! Unlike the south of Thailand, the Northern regions only have one monsoon season, and it continues for an incredible 4 months, but it is not as bad as it sounds. We called it the “Green Season”! It doesn’t rain every day, but when it does, our guide below indicates the best time to ride in the monsoon season in North Thailand.

At Big Bike Tours, our guides are the heart of every adventure — and their professionalism is what makes our tours safe, smooth, and unforgettable.

Training & Certification

• Motorcycle Expertise: All guides are highly experienced riders with many years of touring in Asia’s diverse conditions — from mountain switchbacks to off-road trails.

• Licensing & Permits: Every guide holds a valid motorcycle license, professional tour guide license, and all cross-border permits required for leading international tours.

• First-Aid Certification: All guides are trained in internationally recognized first aid and trauma care, including Red Cross / St. John Ambulance standards, CPR, and emergency response protocols. This ensures they can handle both minor injuries and critical emergencies to global best-practice levels.

Qualifications & Skills

• Multilingual Ability: Most guides speak English fluently, and many also speak Thai, German, or other regional languages to bridge cultural and language gaps.

• Cultural Knowledge: Beyond the ride, guides are trained to share insights into local culture, history, and customs, enriching the journey far beyond just logistics.

• Mechanical Skills: All guides are equipped with the know-how to handle on-the-road repairs and technical issues, supported by our service truck team.

Continuous Development

We invest in ongoing safety refreshers, advanced riding courses, and updated medical certifications, so our guides remain at the highest level of preparedness.

At Big Bike Tours, the reliability of our fleet depends on the expertise of our mechanics. We require all technicians to follow manufacturer-approved training programs and certifications to keep our motorcycles at European standards.

Training & Certification

• Factory Training: Our mechanics are trained through official programs from BMW Motorrad, Triumph, and KTM, ensuring they meet international service standards.

• Technical Certifications: They hold certifications in motorcycle diagnostics, electronics, suspension, and engine servicing, aligned with manufacturer protocols.

• International Standards: We also align with ASE and TÜV-equivalent best practices, so service quality matches what riders expect in Europe.

Recertification & Updates

• Annual Refreshers: Mechanics undergo yearly refresher courses with partner dealerships or directly with manufacturers.

• Model-Specific Training: Whenever new models are added to the fleet (e.g., BMW F900GS, KTM 890 Adventure), mechanics complete updated training modules.

• Continuous Learning: Technical bulletins and updates from manufacturers are reviewed monthly, with hands-on workshops when needed.

Rider Assurance

By ensuring our mechanics are factory-trained, certified, and regularly re-certified, we maintain the highest standards of motorcycle safety, reliability, and performance across our entire fleet.

At Big Bike Tours, we operate 100% legally in every destination we ride. Each country has its own set of permits and licenses for motorcycle tours, and we ensure full compliance through established procedures and partnerships.

Permits & Licenses by Country

• Thailand: We hold all required tourism business licenses, company registrations, and insurance policies. Our guides are licensed professionals under Thai law.

• Neighboring Countries (Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar): Each border crossing requires temporary vehicle import permits, third-party liability insurance, and rider entry documents. These are arranged by our team in advance or at the border.

• High-Access Destinations (Tibet, Bhutan, Mongolia, Japan): These regions require special travel permits, route authorizations, and official invitation letters. We handle these directly with local authorities and partners to guarantee compliance.

Compliance Measures

• Local Partnerships: We work with licensed local agencies and authorities in each country to secure all required documents.

• Regular Renewals: Company, tourism, and transport licenses are renewed annually to stay valid.

• Guide Certification: All tour leaders hold professional guide licenses, international first-aid certificates, and valid cross-border permits.

• Customs & Insurance: We prepare all vehicle documents, customs declarations, and insurance policies before every international ride.

Rider Assurance

By managing all legal requirements — from tourism licenses to cross-border permits — we ensure tours run smoothly and riders never have to worry about paperwork.

At Big Bike Tours, we place the highest value on customer satisfaction and believe in addressing concerns quickly and fairly. Our complaint handling and compensation policy ensures every rider feels heard and supported.

Complaint Handling During Tours

• Immediate Reporting: Guests are encouraged to raise any issue directly with the tour guide or support team while on tour.

• On-the-Spot Resolution: Most issues — whether related to accommodations, motorcycles, or logistics — are resolved immediately through our local partners or by making adjustments to the program.

• Direct Communication: Guides are trained to listen actively, document complaints, and escalate to management if necessary.

Post-Tour Feedback & Follow-Up

• Feedback Channels: Riders can also share feedback after the tour via email, phone, or our official review platforms.

• Management Review: Each complaint is reviewed by management, with a formal response provided within a set timeframe.

Compensation Procedures

• Fair Assessment: If a service failure is confirmed (e.g., hotel downgrade, bike issue not fixed promptly), we provide compensation in the form of partial refunds, discounts on future tours, or other agreed solutions.

• Transparency: All compensation is documented and processed officially — no hidden conditions.

• Customer-Centric Approach: Our goal is not just to solve the problem but to turn dissatisfaction into trust by showing accountability and care.

Rider Assurance

By combining proactive communication, quick on-tour solutions, and fair compensation, we ensure every customer feels valued and supported throughout their journey with us.

At Big Bike Tours, we want every rider to feel confident and protected, no matter where the road leads. Because each country has its own insurance rules, we provide clear information on liability coverage limits and deductibles before every international tour.

Liability Coverage

• Thailand: All motorcycles include the highest level of third-party liability insurance available under Thai law.

• Other Countries: When crossing borders (e.g., Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Bhutan, Mongolia, Tibet), we arrange the mandatory third-party liability coverage required by each country at the border or in advance. Coverage limits vary depending on local regulations.

Deductibles

• Standard Deductible: For most countries, the customer deductible for damage to the motorcycle ranges between USD 1,000 – 2,500, depending on the bike model.

• Premium Bikes: For BMW, Triumph, or KTM models, deductibles may be slightly higher.

• Own Bike Option: If you ride your own motorcycle, your personal insurance policy applies, and we recommend confirming international coverage with your provider.

Additional Notes

• Upgrades Available: In certain destinations, additional insurance options (lower deductibles, higher coverage) can be arranged on request.

• Transparency: Before departure, riders receive a written overview of the exact coverage and deductible for every country included in the tour.

• Customer Responsibility: Riders are responsible for damages up to the deductible amount; beyond that, the insurance covers costs within the country’s legal limits.

Rider Peace of Mind

In short, you are always fully insured under local laws in each country, with deductibles clearly defined in advance — so there are no surprises.

At Big Bike Tours, we understand that reliable communication is critical, especially when riding through remote or high-altitude regions where mobile coverage is unreliable or non-existent. That’s why we use multiple backup communication systems to stay connected at all times.

Communication Systems

• Satellite Phones: Each tour carries at least one satellite phone, allowing direct contact with emergency services, local authorities, and our operations base even in areas without cell coverage.

• GPS Tracking Devices: We equip support vehicles with GPS trackers that allow real-time location sharing and emergency alert functions.

• Two-Way Radios: Guides and support staff use professional two-way radios for immediate group communication over long distances, especially useful in mountainous terrain.

• Emergency Beacons: On select expeditions (e.g., Tibet, Mongolia), we carry Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) or satellite messengers that can send SOS signals to global emergency networks.

Protocols & Procedures

• Daily Check-Ins: Guides perform regular communication checks to confirm systems are working.

• Redundancy: At least two independent systems are carried on every remote tour to ensure backup if one fails.

• Emergency Escalation: In case of a critical situation, satellite or beacon signals are used to trigger immediate response and evacuation procedures.

Rider Assurance

With satellite phones, GPS trackers, radios, and emergency beacons, our teams are never cut off — ensuring constant communication and rapid response, even in the most remote areas of Asia.

At Big Bike Tours, the quality of accommodation is an important part of the overall experience. That’s why we use strict quality control measures when selecting and evaluating our hotel partners in every destination.

Selection Criteria

• Location & Convenience: Hotels are chosen for their safe locations, secure motorcycle parking, and proximity to key attractions or riding routes.

• Comfort & Cleanliness: We only partner with hotels that maintain consistent cleanliness standards, comfortable beds, and reliable amenities such as hot water, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi.

• Service & Staff: Professional, friendly staff and English-speaking reception teams are essential. We also look for flexibility in handling group check-ins and special rider needs.

Quality Control Measures

• Personal Inspections: Our team and guides personally visit and stay at each hotel before adding it to our tours.

• Regular Re-Evaluations: Hotels are re-checked before every season, and if standards drop, we immediately replace them with better partners.

• Guest Feedback: Rider reviews and feedback are taken seriously and used to continuously refine our hotel selection.

• Safety Standards: We ensure hotels comply with local safety regulations and provide secure storage for gear and motorcycles.

Added Value

• Local Character: Whenever possible, we choose hotels with local charm or boutique style rather than generic chains, adding to the cultural experience.

• Consistent Comfort: From remote lodges in Mongolia to boutique hotels in Chiang Mai, we ensure the best available standard at each location on the route.

At Big Bike Tours, safety is our number one priority. That’s why our support vehicles are equipped with comprehensive medical equipment and supplies, ensuring that we are always prepared for emergencies, especially in remote areas.

Medical Equipment Onboard

• Advanced First-Aid Kits: Professional-grade kits covering everything from cuts, burns, and dehydration to fractures and sprains.

• Trauma Care Supplies: Splints, cervical collars, bandages, tourniquets, and wound dressings for stabilization before hospital transfer.

• Emergency Devices: Portable oxygen unit, defibrillator (AED), and resuscitation equipment for critical care situations.

• Altitude & Environment-Specific Gear: Medication and supplies for altitude sickness, hydration solutions, and sun/heat protection equipment (for tours in Tibet, Mongolia, or high-altitude passes).

• Daily Essentials: Pain relief, antiseptics, allergy medication, and other common medical necessities.

Protocol for Restocking

• Pre-Tour Inspection: Before every departure, our guides check and log all medical supplies to ensure nothing is missing or expired.

• Immediate Replacement: Any item used during a tour is restocked at the next available city or medical facility, without delay.

• Post-Tour Replenishment: After every tour, the support vehicle’s kit is fully audited and restocked to international standards, ensuring readiness for the next group.

• International Standards: Our medical supplies follow Red Cross / international guidelines, and our guides are trained to use each item correctly and safely.

Rider Peace of Mind

With fully equipped support vehicles, internationally certified guides, and strict restocking protocols, riders can be confident that professional medical care is always within reach, even in the most remote locations.

At Big Bike Tours, we maintain our fleet to the highest international standards, ensuring every motorcycle is safe, reliable, and performs to European benchmarks.

Maintenance Standards

• European-Level Protocols: All bikes are serviced following manufacturer guidelines and European road safety standards, with genuine parts and fluids only.

• Certified Technicians: Maintenance is carried out by factory-trained mechanics, many with BMW, Triumph, and KTM certification.

• Documentation & Records: Every motorcycle has a complete service history, so riders know their machine is fully maintained and road-ready.

Inspection Protocols

• Pre-Tour Checks: Before each tour, every motorcycle undergoes a comprehensive 30+ point inspection — brakes, tires, suspension, electrics, fluids, safety gear, and accessories.

• Daily Guide Checks: During tours, our guides perform morning safety inspections (tire pressure, brakes, lights, fluids) to catch any issues before departure.

• Post-Tour Service: After each tour, motorcycles are immediately cleaned, inspected, and serviced before being released again.

Service Frequency

• Routine Service: All bikes are serviced every 5,000–8,000 km or sooner, depending on manufacturer recommendations.

• Heavy-Duty Tours: For demanding expeditions (e.g., Tibet, Mongolia), motorcycles receive additional mid-tour checks and maintenance to guarantee performance in extreme conditions.

• Fleet Renewal: We regularly update our fleet with new models to ensure our riders enjoy the latest technology and the highest reliability.

At Big Bike Tours, rider safety and successful tour completion are always our top priorities. Because we operate across different countries and seasons, we have developed a comprehensive system for route planning and weather contingency management:

Route Planning

• Extensive Pre-Tour Research: Every tour route is scouted and tested multiple times before it’s offered. We evaluate road conditions, traffic density, fuel stops, hospital access, and accommodation quality.

• Local Knowledge & Partnerships: Our guides are experienced riders with deep knowledge of the region. We also maintain strong partnerships with local authorities and service providers to ensure smooth cross-border operations.

• Flexible Routing: Each itinerary includes carefully prepared backup routes. If roads are closed due to construction, landslides, or political events, we can quickly divert the group to safe, scenic alternatives.

Weather Contingency

• Seasonal Scheduling: Tours are scheduled according to the most favorable riding seasons in each country. For example, we avoid monsoon periods and high-altitude snow closures whenever possible.

• Daily Monitoring: Our team checks multiple professional weather forecasts daily and adjusts departure times or routes to avoid heavy rain, storms, or extreme heat.

• On-the-Ground Adaptability: In case of sudden weather events (tropical rain, fog, snow at high passes), we may delay departures, shorten the riding day, or switch to the backup route. Safety always comes before schedule.

• Safety Protocols: Riders receive detailed briefings on weather-related riding techniques (e.g., wet road handling, mountain fog visibility) and our support vehicle carries rain gear, first aid, and spare supplies.

Support & Safety Guarantee

• Support Vehicle: Every tour is accompanied by a service truck with luggage, spare parts, tools, and a satellite communication system.

• Medical Support: Our guides are first-aid certified, and we maintain a direct connection with local hospitals and emergency services.

• Completion Assurance: Thanks to our preparation and contingency measures, we ensure that the tour not only remains safe but also enjoyable and completed as planned — even under changing conditions.

At Big Bike Tours, rider safety is our top priority — especially in remote regions where quick access to hospitals can be limited. That’s why we have clear emergency medical protocols and evacuation procedures in place for every tour.

Emergency Medical Protocols

• First-Aid Certified Guides: All our tour leaders are trained in advanced first aid and trauma care.

• Medical Kits Onboard: Both the support vehicle and guides carry professional medical kits, including trauma supplies for roadside stabilization.

• Daily Health Monitoring: Guides check in with riders during and after each day’s ride to catch early signs of dehydration, altitude sickness, or fatigue.

Evacuation Procedures

• Support Vehicle Backup: Our service truck can transport injured riders safely to the nearest medical facility.

• Local Partnerships: We maintain strong connections with local hospitals, clinics, and emergency responders in each country.

• Helicopter/Air Evacuation: For high-altitude or remote tours (e.g., Tibet, Mongolia, Bhutan), we pre-arrange access to helicopter evacuation services through specialized providers and ensure every rider is covered by appropriate travel insurance.

• Insurance Requirement: We require all participants to carry international travel and medical insurance that includes motorcycle riding and medical evacuation coverage.

Peace of Mind

This combination of trained guides, equipped support vehicles, local partnerships, and air evacuation options ensures that even in remote locations, riders are never left without medical care or a safe route to evacuation if needed.

At Big Bike Tours, our pricing is designed to be transparent and flexible, depending on tour length, destination, season, and motorcycle choice.

Pricing Ranges

• 5-Day Tours (Thailand & Regional Loops)
  Typically range from USD 1,500 – 2,200 per rider, including motorcycle, fuel, hotels, meals, guide, and support vehicle.

• 10-Day Tours (Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Northern Vietnam Loops, etc.)
  Generally USD 2,900 – 4,000 per rider, depending on motorcycle model and accommodation type.

• 13-Day Tours (Golden Triangle, Cambodia, Laos/Thailand cross-border routes, etc.)
  Range from USD 3,800 – 5,000 per rider, again depending on bike selection and add-ons such as single room upgrades or pillion passengers.

Variations by Destination

• Premium Adventures (Tibet, Bhutan, Mongolia, Japan): These tours are more logistically complex and can range between USD 5,500 – 8,000+ per rider due to permits, flights, and remote accommodations.

• Regional Tours (Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam): More affordable thanks to local infrastructure and shorter travel distances.

Seasonal Factors

• Peak Season (Nov–Feb, Songkran holidays, July–Aug in Mongolia/Tibet/Japan): Prices are slightly higher and tours sell out quickly — we recommend booking 6–12 months in advance.

• Shoulder & Low Season: More flexibility and occasionally special offers or early-bird discounts are available.

Customization Options

• Bike Choice: Riders can select from our fleet (BMW, Triumph, KTM, Kawasaki, Royal Enfield, etc.), with premium models priced higher.

• Rooming Options: Shared twin rooms are standard, with single-room upgrades available at an additional charge.

• Pillion Riders: Offered at a reduced rate compared to full riders.

At Big Bike Tours, we believe a motorcycle adventure is not just about the ride — it’s about truly experiencing the culture and people along the way. That’s what sets us apart from a standard bike rental.

Cultural Experiences

• Temple Visits & Rituals: We arrange visits to sacred temples, monasteries, and shrines — often with the chance to join local ceremonies or blessings.

• Traditional Cuisine: Riders enjoy authentic regional meals, from street food markets in Thailand to nomadic feasts in Mongolia or home-cooked specialties in Laos.

• Festivals & Events: When timing aligns, we include cultural festivals such as Songkran in Thailand, Naadam in Mongolia, or tribal New Year celebrations.

Local Interactions

• Village Encounters: We ride through and stay overnight in rural villages, where you can meet locals, learn about their crafts, and share meals with families.

• Ethnic Minority Communities: Our tours often pass through remote tribal regions (Karen, Hmong, Akha, etc.), offering genuine insights into traditional lifestyles.

• Personal Connections: Because of our long-standing local relationships, our guests are often welcomed in ways that tourists on their own would not experience.

What Makes Us Different

• Authenticity Over Tourism: These aren’t staged shows — they are real interactions with people living their daily lives.

• Guided Insights: Our guides explain the history, traditions, and stories behind what you see, so the experience goes far deeper than a simple visit.

• Balanced Adventure: Riders enjoy both the thrill of the road and meaningful cultural immersion — creating a journey that feels personal and unforgettable.

In short: with Big Bike Tours, you don’t just ride through a country — you connect with it, its people, and its culture in a way no rental bike ever could provide.

At Big Bike Tours, we specialize in taking riders far beyond the standard tourist trails — to places most travelers will never see.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Routes

• Remote Mountain Passes: We ride through high-altitude passes in the Himalayas, Tibet, and Mongolia that are inaccessible to buses or rental cars.

• Border Regions & Tribal Areas: Our tours explore ethnic minority villages in Northern Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, where outside visitors are rare.

• Scenic Backroads: Instead of highways, we choose winding jungle trails, river valleys, and mountain ridge roads that reveal authentic landscapes.

Hidden Locations

• Secret Viewpoints & Temples: We visit sacred temples, caves, and hidden viewpoints known only to locals.

• National Parks & Restricted Zones: Through our permits and local partnerships, we access protected areas and remote parks that independent travelers cannot easily enter.

• Local Homestays & Authentic Culture: Riders experience genuine hospitality — staying in traditional villages, dining in family homes, and joining local festivals.

What Makes Them Unique

• Exclusivity: Many of these routes require special permits, local knowledge, or off-road riding skills.

• Authenticity: You’ll see real daily life — not staged tourist attractions.

• Adventure Factor: The combination of challenging roads, remote scenery, and cultural immersion makes every ride unforgettable.

In short: our exclusive access, local expertise, and adventurous spirit let you discover hidden Asia in a way that no ordinary tourist ever could.

At Big Bike Tours, we make international travel as smooth as possible by guiding our riders through every step of the entry and visa process.

Entry Requirements

• Country-Specific Guidance: Each destination has its own entry rules, visa policies, and border formalities. We provide customers with updated requirements for passports, visas, vaccinations (if applicable), and international driving permits (IDP).

• Advance Notifications: Before your tour, you’ll receive a detailed checklist of documents needed for all countries on your route.

Visa Assistance

• Pre-Tour Information Pack: We provide clear instructions on visa application processes, including online e-visas, visa-on-arrival, or embassy applications depending on the country.

• Invitation Letters: Where required (e.g., Tibet, Mongolia, Bhutan), we supply official invitation letters and supporting documents to secure your visa.

• Border Facilitation: Our guides assist with border crossings, paperwork, and customs procedures to make the process smooth and stress-free.

Documentation Support

• International Driving Permit: We advise on IDP requirements and help customers prepare the correct version for Asia.

• Motorcycle & Customs Papers: All bike-related paperwork, permits, and insurance documents are prepared in advance by our team.

• Local Regulations: We brief you on local traffic rules, insurance requirements, and any special permits (for example, restricted zones in Tibet or national parks).

Peace of Mind

Our goal is to ensure you can focus on the ride, not the red tape. With our visa guidance, invitation letters, and border support, international riders can enjoy their journey knowing all legal requirements are taken care of.

At Big Bike Tours, we know that even the best-maintained motorcycles can occasionally face technical issues. That’s why we have a comprehensive support system in place to keep your adventure safe and uninterrupted.

Preventive Measures

• Professional Maintenance: Every motorcycle in our fleet is inspected and serviced before and after each tour by certified mechanics.

• Daily Checks: Our guides perform quick inspections each morning to ensure bikes are road-ready.

On-Tour Breakdown Handling

• Experienced Guides: Our lead guides are skilled in on-the-road repairs for common issues such as flat tires, battery problems, or minor mechanical adjustments.

• Support Vehicle: Every tour is accompanied by a service truck carrying tools, spare parts, tires, and essential repair equipment.

• Replacement Bike: If a motorcycle cannot be repaired quickly, we provide a backup bike from the support truck or arrange a swift replacement through our local network.

Rider Assistance & Safety

• Passenger Transfer: If needed, the support vehicle can safely transport a rider and luggage while the issue is being resolved.

• No Disruption Guarantee: Because of our logistics planning and backup resources, the rest of the group can continue riding while the problem is handled, minimizing delays.

• 24/7 Local Network: Across Asia, we have long-standing partnerships with service workshops and dealerships to get professional help wherever we are.

In short, our support vehicles, spare equipment, backup bikes, and experienced team ensure that a technical issue never becomes a major disruption to your tour.

At Big Bike Tours, we run a very structured booking and capacity planning process to ensure every rider gets the best possible experience.

Booking Lead Time

• Standard Lead Time: For most tours, we recommend booking at least 3–6 months in advance. This allows us to confirm your preferred motorcycle model, accommodation type, and any add-ons such as single rooms or extra nights.

• Peak Season: During high-demand periods (December–February, Songkran holidays, and summer months for Mongolia, Tibet, and Japan), tours often sell out 6–12 months in advance. Early booking is strongly advised.

Capacity Planning

• Small Group Sizes: We deliberately limit our groups to 10–12 riders maximum. This guarantees safety, personal attention, and a premium experience.

• Motorcycle Fleet Management: Our booking system directly connects with our multi-brand fleet (BMW, Triumph, Honda, KTM, Kawasaki, Ducati, Royal Enfield, etc.). We reserve specific models on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Guide & Logistics Allocation: Each confirmed booking is tied to guide availability, support vehicles, and hotel room blocks to avoid last-minute capacity issues.

Customer Guidance

• Advance Bookings for Peak Season: To secure your spot (and your preferred bike model), it’s best to book at least 9–12 months ahead for tours in Thailand’s winter season and other popular international destinations.

• Shoulder & Low Season: Outside peak months, 3–4 months in advance is usually sufficient. However, last-minute bookings can sometimes be accommodated if space and motorcycles are available.

We drive on the left as in England and Australia. All speed limits are in km/h, 30-50 for towns, 60 for suburbs, and 90 for major (A) roads and dual carriageways. I’ll happily cruise along the open road at a good clip, but we must always slow right down through the towns/villages, 50 km/h maximum. There are often kids, dogs, chickens, etc., kicking around in the streets. Also, if you see the tour guide braking, there’s a good reason – and you should break, too! Many Thais ignore the typical unwritten rules of road positioning and merging we are used to in the West. We’ll go over this in person so don’t worry. There is always a “sweeper” and a service vehicle to make sure any riders caught by a traffic light or water buffalo crossing delay do not get separated from the group!

Every day, we will offer advice on the best things to see and do, but you’re under no pressure to follow the (small) crowd. You can strike out on your own at any time and simply meet back up with us when you’re ready. We’ll have preferred routes mapped out for you – but any way you choose to arrive at the booked hotel is up to you! There are elephants and water buffalo… although you might not get there in time for dinner!

Please contact us to get the latest information on your desired trip.

For general inquiries, you can use the “Contact Us” button on the top right and fill out the form or send a direct message to either Tom or Noah using the following contact details. Please be informed about our Thai office hours (GMT +7); 10.00-19.00, 7 days/week. These hours apply to our mobile phones too. Please think about the time difference, before you make a call, thanks for your consideration: Tom – English/Thai Language – WhatsApp: +66 98 586 9925 (info@bigbiketours.com); Kay – English/German Language – WhatsApp: +66 80  127 2595 (kay@bigbiketours.com); Also you will find us on Facebook and Instagram (Big Bike Tours), you can click on the Facebook or Instagram Icon on the top right side of this website too.

Any damage or mechanical or electrical failure on any Big Bike Tours motorcycle must be reported to the tour leader immediately. Included in the tour price is standard motorcycle damage insurance which covers you for incidental damages. You will be liable for the first 30,000 THB in any claim and the event of a write-off (never happened yet) you will be liable for 100,000 THB (Thai Baht) We do offer an upgrade to this insurance bringing the liability down to 10,000 and 75,000 respectively if you wish to upgrade it (1,000 THB per bike and day). Please note this is only applicable to tours within Thailand.

We’re not in a race on our tours. There’s a lot to see and a lot to do in Asia that doesn’t involve riding along some of the world’s most scenic roads. Although that is certainly a great reason for booking your trip! We usually ride about 200 to 250 kilometers daily. We leave our hotel around 8:30-9:00 a.m. After breakfast. Stops for attractions, photos, and activities such as feeding the elephants or visiting a mountain-top village or temple are scheduled before and after lunch depending on the group’s preference. We break to stretch our legs and share a coffee or cool drink about every hour or so. Our goal is to enjoy the ride and take in as much of the local culture as possible. It’s a Once-in-a-lifetime trip – we don’t want you to miss anything!

Yes, since the 1st of March 2026, a valid international driving permit together with a valid license with a motorcycle amendment from your home country is required.
If you don’t have an IDP yet, no worries, you can easily apply here on our website: https://www.bigbiketours.com/get-your-international-driving-permit/

Where our luxury van or service vehicle is not available we supply a 10-liter backpack for use on tour. This pack will sit easily on the back of your bike, and it carries a large amount of gear that compresses down very small. Every motorcycle also has the option to put a top box or panniers on. Any remaining luggage not needed on tour can be left in our Chiang Mai Office safe and secure.

Yes, we highly recommend it, and it must cover you for riding motorbikes of 250cc or more. Travel insurance for Thailand, even including motorcycle cover, is not expensive and will offer you many benefits if you need to claim. Riding anywhere in the world without adequate travel insurance is lunacy and obligatory on all our tours!

Having valid travel / medical insurance is mandatory for the duration of your tour with us.

Travel insurance policies and providers will vary depending on each individual person’s details (age, health conditions, etc.) and also by nationality/country of residence; therefore, we cannot provide insurance advice on which policy is best for you.

We can only suggest that, if possible, you have a policy designed for motorcycle touring and other adventurous activities and covers you for incidents including (but not limited to):

• cancellation & curtailment
• personal accident
• medical and repatriation costs
• loss, damage and theft of your belongings
• third party liability.

For reference only, some of our previous guests have used these global travel insurance providers:

Safety Wing: https://safetywing.com

CSM LTD: https://csmltd.com/medical/motorcycle-touring-medical-insurance/

World Nomads: https://www.worldnomads.com/

ADAC: https://www.adac.de/produkte/versicherungen/reiseversicherungen/
(for German customers)

People from 43 countries around the world can get a free Visa on arrival at the Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok) including EU countries, Australia, Canada, the USA, and New Zealand. The visa is for 30 days and is very easy to do on arrival. Just fill out the form and give it together with your passport to the immigration officer.
But if you are planning on staying in Thailand longer we suggest applying at your local Thai embassy for a longer visa. When you apply to join one of our bike tours, we will advise you on visa regulations.

With such a great destination to take a motorbike tour from October to February. This is the best time to ride Motorbikes in Northern Thailand with warm temperatures, clear blue skies, sun, hardly any rain, and forests alive with fresh, lush greenery from the recent monsoon season. Most of our motorbike pictures on this website were taken this time of the year!

Northern Thailand is without a doubt the premier destination to ride motorcycles in Asia. So it is best to choose the time of the year when you will get maximum enjoyment from the country. However, please be informed that March and April are the hottest months of the year. Temperatures can be up to 40 degrees at this time (“Hot Session”). Mai and June the temperatures follow down to pleasantly 30 degrees with a big riding fun guarantee.

This time of the year will add great adventure to your motorbike tour! Unlike the south of Thailand, the Northern regions only have one monsoon season, and it continues for an incredible 4 months, but it is not as bad as it sounds. We called it the “Green Season”! It doesn’t rain every day but when it does, so our guide below indicates the best time to ride in the monsoon season in North Thailand.

We have a stock of motorbike helmets, jackets, gloves, body protection, and knee guards. Good quality and only European brands in many different sizes. Please tell us what you may need from us, and we will hold whatever we can for you, but please understand we cannot guarantee brand-new quality as they have been worn by many riders on our tours and the sizes may not fit you correctly. We recommend bringing your gear to feel the most comfortable.

Please be informed, that we do not offer boots and trousers due to hygienic reasons. Good trekking or sports shoes and jeans (Kevlar) should be enough. We do not go racing, we want to tour.

Certain motorbike gear can be bought in Chiang Mai, but European standard gear will cost more than in your own country! There are many manufacturers (mostly Chinese) that sell motorbike gear here in Thailand and to be fair for the price most of it is good quality. Jackets and Trousers, knee pads, arm pads, etc. can all be bought in Chiang Mai. However, please make sure you arrive in Chiang Mai allowing yourself plenty of time to buy anything you may need.