Riding a scooter in Chiang Mai can be fun and exciting. The city and its countryside are lovely. You can go where you like. But many get it wrong. This guide helps you rent smart. Skip the big mistakes. Save stress and time. Keep safe and enjoy.

Here are some of the common mistakes when renting a scooter in Chiang Mai people make:

1. Never hand over your passport
Some places ask for your passport as a deposit. That is not okay. It is risky and may be illegal. You may need it for travel, hospital visits or police. Use a copy and pay cash deposit if needed. That is safer.

2. Check what you pay covers
Scooter ads may say a low price. But you may later pay more. Extras like helmets, phone holders, or insurance might cost more. Always ask what is included before you pay.

3. Always inspect the scooter well
Walk around the bike with the staff. Ask them to show any scratches or dents. Take clear photos or a video. Include angles, mirrors, brakes, tyres, lights. Film the fuel gauge too. This can save you from paying for damage that was there before.

4. Don’t skip insurance
Basic cover may come with the scooter rental in Chiang Mai. But it may not be enough for all you need. Some places offer extra options. You need a valid motorbike licence to claim. That means International Driving Permit or Thai licence. Police will fine you if you ride without it.

5. Make sure you have the right licence
Many tourists think it is okay to rent without a licence. It is not. You need an International Driving Permit with motorcycle endorsement or a Thai licence. Police will often check. You may get fined 500 baht if you do not have one.

6. Remember traffic rules differ
You must drive on the left side here. Do not stop unless others do. In Thailand people expect traffic to flow. Stopping can cause accidents.

7. Ride defensive
Thai traffic can be chaotic. Sand, oil patches, blind turns are common. Bigger vehicles pull in front. Cars may cut in suddenly. Ride slow and watch everything. Anticipate other users.

8. Take it slow on your first ride
Find a quiet road to practice. Do not rush into busy roads. Learn how the scooter handles. Know where the brakes are and how tight they are.

9. Don’t rely on bad gear
Some rental helmets are cheap and poor fit. That means they may not protect you well. Buy or use a proper full face helmet if you can.

10. Choose a bike that fits you
Most go for 125cc scooters. They have good fuel use and are easy to ride. If you plan hilly routes ride a stronger model. Ask how long the bike has been used. Newer bikes are safer.

11. Know fuel tips
Use 95 petrol unless told otherwise. Stations are easy to find in the city. Fill up before heading into the hills. Store enough to finish the ride.

12. Lock your scooter well
Always park in proper areas. Use a solid chain lock on the wheel. Buy your own rather than rely on the provided one. Some thieves work with rental places and follow you.

13. Do not merge carelessly
Tourists often merge badly. Like moving from one side of the lane to the other quickly. That causes crashes. Watch locals and follow their flow. Be cautious when turning or joining a main road.

14. Read reviews and avoid dodgy shops
Always check reviews before choosing a place. Some near cheap hostels are known to scam. They may hold your passport or deny damage. Move on if you sense trouble.

15. Be ready for police checks
Police set up random checkpoints. If police stop you, show your licence and documents. Be polite. If you lack a licence they may issue a 500 baht fine. That gets you a three day pass. You won’t be fined again in that time.

16. See what others say
A traveler warned about accidents in Chiang Mai. They had expected quiet roads. But they saw four crashes in one evening. One involved a boy crashing after being hit while they obeyed a crossing. They said Thai traffic punishes breaking flow.
Another said tourists merge too quickly. Locals may edge across lanes then move on. Tourists don’t copy that. Instead they dart with no warning. That is risky.

17. Plan your route and get insurance
Good travel insurance should cover scooters. Make sure your plan includes it. Some travellers find they must pay large sums otherwise. So check your coverage.

Conclusion:
Riding a scooter in Chiang Mai gives you freedom to explore. But you must stay smart and safe. Know the rules, use proper gear, and choose a trusted rental. Take care and enjoy the journey.
Bikago is a trusted scooter and motorbike rental firm in Chiang Mai. They offer good condition bikes, free delivery for longer rentals and 24 hour customer support.