Motorcycle Travel
The Northwest, with its visual splendor and patchwork of ethnic minorities, has become a hotly favored destination for exploration by motorbike, although the roads are not of the highest standard. Traveling as part of a group is the best and safest option.
The Hanoi–Dien Bien Phu–Sapa route and the Ha Giang Loop are only for adventurous motorcyclists. These roads are very remote, and adequate emergency care is virtually nonexistent. Wear a helmet, take a sheet of important words and phrases (such as the Vietnamese expression for "My clutch is broken"), and go with a partner. You'll need reasonable clearance and maneuverability, however, so doubling up on one bike is not recommended. Also, be prepared to get wet in mud puddles, although at some larger washout spots enterprising locals set up ferry services on small boats for motorcycles. If you drive a motorbike from Hanoi to Mai Chau, pay extra attention on the mountain roads—the trucks that run this route are notoriously stingy when it comes to giving adequate room to two-wheelers.
Several companies specializing in motorbike tours of the north operate from Hanoi. They can supply well-maintained bikes ranging from classic to modern models and offer expert advice on worthwhile diversions and how to tackle the roads. Rental bikes vary in price, depending on the model, but start from around 250,000d per day. For beginners, however, a better option would be to join one of the group tours these companies offer, providing strength in numbers and guide expertise. Another option is to ride behind an experienced driver; for the Ha Giang Loop, this will cost around 2,700,000d per day.
Cuong's Motorbike Adventures. A founding member of Hanoi's Minsk Club, Cuong has been synonymous with motorbiking in northern Vietnam for two decades. A skilled mechanic who has provided support to high-profile Western television shows filmed in Vietnam, Cuong knows everything there is to know about bike maintenance. He and his team are also expertly versed in the best routes to take in the north. As well as group and individual tours, Cuong has a broad range of bikes for rent and is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to hit the road on two wheels. Cuong also runs tours in classic U.S. Army M151 MUTT jeeps. With his popularity and status, Cuong himself is often booked up months in advance. 122 Vinh Tuy , Hanoi, Ha Noi. 91/876–3515; www.cuongs-motorbike-adventure.com. 125cc from 214,000d per day, including helmet.
Flipside Travel & Accommodation. Flipside is a New Zealand–owned hostel and adventure company that aims to put exploration at the heart of your Southeast Asia journey. They specialize in a four-day bike tour of the north that takes in the Ha Giang Loop called “The True North Motorbike Trip.” Their staff are all highly experienced and ready to ride. 23 Bat Dan , Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Ha Noi. 24/3923–1040; www.flipsideadventuretravel.com.
Motorbike Tour Expert. Founded by three Hanoian motorbike nuts, this operation is well-versed in the routes and lore of the northern mountains. The Japanese bikes they use for their tours are of the highest quality, and guides are well-trained and skilled at getting guests out of a tight spot should their machine malfunction. Tour itineraries range from bite-size options to more epic voyages through magnificent landscapes. 264 Nguyen Trai , Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Ha Noi. 097/988–4588; www.hanoimotorcycletour.com. Tours start at 1,280,000d per day per person based on a group of five.
