Motorbikes are the most popular way to get around Koh Samui. They give you freedom: stop at any beach, circle the entire island in a single day, and reach hilltop viewpoints in the interior that songthaews don't serve.

Choosing a Bike

The most common models are the Honda Wave 110 (automatic, lightweight, great for town and beach), the Honda Click or Yamaha NMAX 125 (scooters suited to busier roads), and the Honda PCX 150 (more power, better for mountain roads). Most tourists find 110–125 cc more than enough. If you're heading into the hills or carrying a passenger, go for 150 cc.

Pre-Rental Inspection

Walk around the bike with the owner and photograph every scratch and dent before you sign anything. Check: tyre tread (should not be worn smooth), front and rear brakes, headlight, indicators and horn. Make sure the steering lock works — this is your protection against theft. Clarify the damage policy: some rental shops take a cash deposit; others hold your passport (giving your passport is not recommended).

Licences and Documents

Riding a motorbike in Thailand legally requires an international driving permit with category A (or equivalent) or a Thai licence. Most foreign national licences are not accepted alone by Thai police. Without valid documentation you risk a fine at a checkpoint. Standard vehicle insurance covers third-party damage only — rider injuries are usually excluded. Check that your travel insurance covers motorbike riding: many policies exclude it by default.

Rental Prices

A standard 110–125 cc scooter runs from 150–250 THB per day for a week's rental and 200–350 THB for a shorter period. A PCX 150 or larger scooter starts at around 350–500 THB per day. Rental shops are found in every district: Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut, Nathon. Delivery to your hotel is a standard service with most rental outfits.

Safety Tips

Always wear a helmet — it's both the law and common sense. Thailand drives on the left. Take extra care on the winding mountain roads through the island's centre: tight bends, wet leaves on the tarmac and oncoming trucks. In rain, slow down before the corner — road markings become slippery. On quieter roads after dark, stray dogs may dash into the road — slow down and steer around them calmly rather than braking hard.