The 10 Best Bikes for Travelling Vietnam

Vietnam is one of the world’s most popular destinations for long-distance motorbike travel. From the winding Ha Giang mountain passes in the north to the sunny coastal roads of Central Vietnam, a good bike makes all the difference.

There are hundreds of models on the market – but only a few are truly suitable for taking on Vietnam’s diverse terrain, whether it’s remote mountain tracks, coastal highways, or local village roads.

Below are the 10 best motorbikes for travelling across Vietnam, with detailed breakdowns of who they suit best, what makes them great, and where you can find them.

Honda Wave 110 / Honda Blade 110

The Honda Wave 110 and Honda Blade 110 are the backbone of Vietnam’s roads. These small, efficient, and easy-to-handle bikes are everywhere – from busy Hanoi streets to remote mountain villages.

Perfect for beginners and budget travelers, they’re simple to learn, extremely reliable, and can be fixed anywhere. They won’t win races, but they’ll get you across the country without breaking the bank.

Ideal for: Beginners, solo riders, and short-term travelers

Best routes: Cities, coastal routes, and short loops

Details

• 109cc engine

• 8.5hp

• 3.7L fuel capacity

• 760mm seat height

• Designed for 1 person

Advantages

• Perfect for beginners

• Cheap but reliable

• The most common bike in Vietnam (easy parts & repairs)

Disadvantages

• Small fuel tank under the seat

• Small tires and frame (less stable)

Where to Find It
You’ll find Honda Waves everywhere in Vietnam – from rental shops to backpackers reselling them. Expect older models if buying from other travelers, or newer ones when renting from reputable companies.

See Honda Alpha Wave 110cc rental details from Style Motorbikes here. 

Honda XR150L

The Honda XR150L is Vietnam’s most popular dual-sport motorbike – built for adventure. It’s powerful enough for mountain terrain yet smooth enough for paved highways.

This model is perfect for riders who want to explore Ha Giang, Sapa, and the Ho Chi Minh Highway, where the terrain constantly changes. With a comfortable upright position and long-travel suspension, the XR150L handles everything from muddy tracks to city streets.

Ideal for: Intermediate riders, adventure seekers, solo travelers 

Best routes: Ha Giang Loop, Ho Chi Minh Highway, Northern mountain routes

Details

• 149cc engine

• 12.1hp

• 12L fuel tank

• 833mm seat height

• Best for 1 person

Advantages

• Dual-sport versatility: handles dirt and paved roads

• Enough power for steep climbs

• Comfortable riding position

Disadvantages

• Tall seat height (less suited for shorter riders)

• Carbureted (not fuel-injected)

• Parts can be harder to find in remote areas

Where to Find It
Commonly available in most motorbike rental shops across Vietnam, especially from larger companies. Backpacker-sold bikes often have high mileage, so check the condition carefully.

See Honda XR 150 rental details from Style Motorbikes here. 

Honda CB500X

The Honda CB500X is the king of motorbike rentals in Vietnam – powerful, comfortable, and built for long-distance travel. It’s the largest cc rental commonly available and ideal for 1 or 2 people.

With a strong 471cc engine, this touring bike can effortlessly handle mountain passes, coastal highways, and loaded luggage, all while offering superior comfort. It’s the best choice for experienced riders who want performance and stability.

Ideal for: Experienced riders, couples, long-distance travelers

Best routes: Entire Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh Road, cross-country rides

Details

• 471cc engine

• 48hp

• 17L fuel tank

• 830mm seat height

• 1-2 riders

Advantages

• Most powerful and comfortable rental bike in Vietnam

• Side panniers and top box for luggage

• Excellent on both highways and mountain passes

Disadvantages

• Expensive and heavy

• Difficult to service outside major cities

Where to Find It
Available mainly at top-tier rental companies like Style Motorbikes. Buying or selling one yourself can be challenging due to the higher cost and limited demand.

See Honda CB500X rental details from Style Motorbikes here. 

Honda Future 125FI

The Honda Future 125FI is Vietnam’s largest and best-performing semi-automatic bike, making it a smart choice for beginners or couples who can’t ride manual bikes.

It has more power, a larger frame, and better brakes than smaller semi-autos like the Wave 110, making it suitable for longer trips. Thanks to fuel injection and Honda’s reliability, it’s one of the most dependable options for two riders on a budget.

Ideal for: Beginners, couples, or semi-auto riders

Best routes: Coastal roads, Central Vietnam, and easier mountain loops

Details

• 125cc engine

• 9hp

• 4.7L fuel tank

• 756mm seat height

• 1-2 riders

Advantages

• Easy to ride

• Cheapest option for two people

• Fuel injection & front disc brake

Disadvantages

• Small frame for two people

• Small under-seat fuel tank

Where to Find It
Less common than the Wave but available in major cities and with larger rental companies. It’s the best-value bike for couples who prefer a semi-auto.

See Honda Future 125FI rental details from Style Motorbikes  here. 

Kawasaki Versys-X 300

The Kawasaki Versys-X 300 is a true adventure-touring motorbike – offering excellent power, comfort, and versatility for riders who want to explore every corner of Vietnam. With its 296cc twin-cylinder engine, it has enough torque for mountain climbs while remaining light enough to handle winding rural roads.

If you’re riding long distances with luggage or a passenger, the Versys-X 300 shines. Its side panniers, top box, and upright seating make it perfect for days on the Ho Chi Minh Highway or Vietnam’s stunning coastal highways.

Ideal for: Experienced riders, couples, or long-distance travelers

Best routes: Ho Chi Minh Highway, Northern loops, and Vietnam cross-country rides

Details

• 296cc engine

• 39hp

• 17L fuel tank

• 815mm seat height

• Suitable for 1-2 riders

Advantages

• Excellent power-to-weight ratio

• Dual front & rear disc brakes

• Comfortable upright position for touring

• Side panniers & top box included

Disadvantages

• More expensive than smaller models

• Heavier and less nimble than 150cc bikes

• Harder to repair in remote regions

Where to Find It
The Versys-X 300 is available mainly from established motorbike rental companies like Style Motorbikes. It’s less common for sale, and reselling can be difficult due to its higher cost.

See Kawasaki Versys-X 300 rental details from Style Motorbikes , click here. 

Honda CB150 Verza

The Honda CB150 Verza is one of Vietnam’s best-value 150cc manual bikes, perfect for riders seeking comfort, affordability, and versatility. It’s a solid choice for solo travelers or two-up riding, with a smooth 5-speed gearbox and fuel-injected engine.

Compared to the XR150L, the Verza offers better comfort on paved roads and a lower seat height, making it ideal for city cruising or long days on tarmac routes. It’s not as capable off-road, but for those staying mostly on highways or smaller roads, it’s a great all-rounder.

Ideal for: Beginners upgrading to a manual, couples, long-distance riders

Best routes: Ho Chi Minh Highway, Central Highlands, and Southern Vietnam

Details

• 149cc engine

• 13hp

• 12L fuel tank

• 773mm seat height

• Suitable for 1–2 people

Advantages

• Best 150cc bike for two riders

• Fuel-injected and efficient

• Comfortable and stable on roads

• Excellent value for money

Disadvantages

• Not ideal for heavy off-road terrain

• Less storage and accessories than adventure bikes

Where to Find It
Common among locals and available from Style Motorbikes. Other shops may have limited numbers, but the Verza’s popularity is growing among travelers seeking a mid-range, dependable manual bike.

See Honda CB150 Verza rental details from Style Motorbikes click here. 

Honda CB150X

A smaller sibling to the CB500X, the Honda CB150X is designed for adventure riders who want a capable touring bike without the high rental cost. It’s powerful, comfortable, and stylish, with a tall stance and adventure ergonomics.

Featuring fuel injection, six gears, dual disc brakes, and large 12L tank, this bike offers superior range and smooth handling for solo riders. Whether you’re cruising the Ha Giang Loop or tackling Central Vietnam’s passes, the CB150X feels modern, stable, and fun.

Ideal for: Solo adventure riders, experienced travelers, tall riders

Best routes: Ha Giang Loop, Central Highlands, Coastal highways

Details

• 149cc engine

• 15hp

• 12L fuel tank

• 817mm seat height

• 1 person

Advantages

• Most advanced 150cc bike in Vietnam

• Dual disc brakes, 6-speed transmission

• Great fuel range & modern design

• Side pannier & top box compatible

Disadvantages

• More expensive than the XR or Verza

• Taller seat height (not ideal for shorter riders)

Where to Find It
Still a newer model in Vietnam but increasingly popular among riders. Available at Style Motorbikes and select premium rental shops. Limited second-hand market due to its newness.

See Honda CB150X rental details from Style Motorbikes by clicking here. 

Honda Winner

The Honda Winner 150 is Vietnam’s most popular 150cc underbone sports bike, known for its quick acceleration, sporty handling, and city-friendly performance. With 6 gears, fuel injection, and front/rear disc brakes, it’s a fun and efficient option for riders who prefer a low-slung design.

While it’s great for short and mid-length trips, its under-seat fuel tank and compact frame make it less ideal for long-distance touring with luggage. Still, for agile rides between cities or along the coast, the Winner is a reliable and fast option.

Ideal for: City-to-city travel, solo riders, sporty riders

Best routes: Coastal roads, Mekong Delta, short-distance loops

Details

• 149cc engine

• 15.5hp

• 4.5L fuel tank

• 795mm seat height

• 1 person

Advantages

• Fast and responsive

• 6-speed gearbox, dual disc brakes

• Widely available and easy to service

Disadvantages

• Small under-seat fuel tank

• Compact frame for long trips

• Less comfort on rough roads

Where to Find It
Commonly found among locals and expats, but less so in backpacker rentals. You can rent or buy one easily in major cities, though quality varies.

Yamaha Exciter 155

The Yamaha Exciter 155 is the main competitor to the Honda Winner and is one of Vietnam’s most recognizable motorbikes. With 17.9hp and a 6-speed transmission, it’s among the most powerful underbone bikes in the country.

It’s quick, fun, and ideal for riders used to sport-style handling. However, like the Winner, the fuel tank placement and smaller frame make it less suitable for long-distance travel with luggage. It excels on paved roads and in urban areas.

Ideal for: Sporty riders, city explorers, solo travelers

Best routes: Southern Vietnam, coastal highways, city travel

Details

• 155cc engine

• 17.9hp

• 5.4L fuel tank

• 795mm seat height

• 1 person

Advantages

• Excellent power-to-weight ratio

• 6-speed gearbox

• Reliable and stylish

Disadvantages

• Limited comfort for long trips

• Smaller frame and under-seat fuel tank

Where to Find It
Popular with locals and easy to find for sale. Rentals are available in big cities, though long-distance travelers often prefer the XR or CB150X.

Suzuki GD110

The Suzuki GD110 is the ideal entry-level manual bike in Vietnam. Its 113cc engine and lightweight build make it perfect for beginners transitioning from semi-automatic bikes.

It’s smooth, easy to control, and fuel-efficient – ideal for shorter riders or those who want to travel Vietnam without the height or weight of larger bikes. The 9L fuel tank offers surprisingly good range, and the classic design gives it a unique charm.

Ideal for: Beginners learning manual, budget travelers, solo riders

Best routes: Ho Chi Minh Highway, Mekong Delta, and light touring

Details

• 113cc engine

• 8.1hp

• 9L fuel tank

• 760mm seat height

• 1 person

Advantages

• Easiest manual for beginners

• Lightweight and easy to handle

• Great fuel economy and range

Disadvantages

• Smaller tires and less power

• Limited performance on steep or rough roads

Where to Find It
Available from locals and rental agencies like Style Motorbikes. Not as common as the Wave or XR, but an excellent first choice for those new to manual riding.. 

See Suzuki GD110 rental details from Style Motorbikes, click here. 

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right motorbike for traveling Vietnam depends on your riding ability, route, and comfort level.

• Beginners: Honda Wave, Honda Future, or Suzuki GD110

• Adventurers: Honda XR150L or Honda CB150X

• Couples: Honda CB150 Verza or Kawasaki Versys-X 300

• Long-distance pros: Honda CB500X or Kawasaki Versys-X 300

No matter which you choose, make sure you rent from a trusted company with reliable maintenance and support across the country – like Style Motorbikes, which offers all the models above with flexible one-way rentals, luggage racks, and 24/7 support.