A Comprehensive Guide to Buying a Motorbike in Chiang Mai: Tips

If you’re planning an extended stay in Chiang Mai, buying a motorbike instead of renting one can be a cost-effective and convenient option. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of buying a motorbike in Chiang Mai, covering popular models, reliable dealerships like Natmotor near MAYA, the required documents, obtaining a residency certificate, bonuses, insurance, number plates, oil changes, and fuel requirements. With this information in hand, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on your two-wheeled adventure in Chiang Mai. Just follow this article “A Comprehensive Guide to Buying a Motorbike in Chiang Mai: Tips”.

Choosing the Right Motorbike: Honda Click or Honda Scoopy?

When it comes to motorbikes in Chiang Mai, the Honda Click and Honda Scoopy are highly recommended options. These models are popular, and their spare parts are easily available in case of any maintenance or repair needs. If aesthetics matter to you, the Honda Click offers a sleek and stylish design. Consider your personal preferences and choose the model that suits you best.

A Comprehensive Guide to Buying a Motorbike in Chiang Mai – Reliable Dealership: Natmotor, an Official Honda Dealer

For a reliable and trustworthy dealership, Natmotor is an excellent choice. Located at 193 9-13 Huaykaew Rd, Tambon Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Natmotor is an official Honda dealership that offers a great customer experience. The salesperson at Natmotor speaks excellent English and provides valuable information about the available motorbikes, prices, discounts, bonuses, insurance options, technical checks, and number plates.

Choosing the Honda Click 125i 2019 Model

The Honda Click 125i 2019 model, available in blue color, is a popular choice among buyers. If the model is not in stock at the dealership, you can reserve it and wait for the next delivery. The price for the Honda Click 125i 2019 is around 53,000 Baht, with some discounts available. To reserve the motorbike, a small deposit is required, and the dealership will notify you when the motorbike arrives.

Convenient Features and Accessories

The Honda Click 125i comes equipped with convenient features for daily use. It offers a hook under the driving panel for shopping bags and storage space under the seat, which can fit a helmet or four 1.5-liter water bottles. Additionally, you can enhance your riding experience by adding a phone holder to the steering wheel, allowing you to easily navigate with your phone’s map.

Required Documents for the Purchase

To buy a motorbike in Chiang Mai, you will need to provide specific documents. These include your passport, printed pages from your working visa, and a residency certificate. The dealership will assist you in scanning the necessary documents, so make sure to bring the originals for verification.

Obtaining a Residency Certificate in Chiang Mai

To obtain a residency certificate, visit the Chiang Mai Immigration Office located near Chiang Mai International Airport at 71 ถนนสนามบิน, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200.

Take with you:

• Copy of pages from passport (take original too) – visa, entry card, and main pages.
• Two passport size pictures.
• Bring some paper issued by your condo or landlord that states that you live there.

Process:

• You need to do this between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Note that it might take some time depends on the queue. In my case, it took 30 minutes, and I came for 8 a.m.
• Go floor number two and take the form for a residency certificate.
• Fill the form. It is just one-page form with your name, address and reason for getting the certificate. In reason, I wrote that I need it to buy a motorbike.
• Go make proof of your address. It’s the longest part of the procedure I think, that took ten minutes because of the queue. You will get some sort of receipt back that you will need to copy.
• All copies of documents can be made across the road for two Baht per page.
• Give all your copies and filled form to the person who gave you the original form, and you will get a ticket back.
• This ticket will be used to get your residency certificate. In my case, I needed to collect it after two weeks and two days.

The process is completely free, you only need to pay for the copies of documents.

A Comprehensive Guide to Buying a Motorbike in Chiang Mai – Bonuses and Insurance Options

When purchasing a motorbike, dealerships often offer bonuses to enhance your ownership experience. Natmotor provides various bonus options, such as motorbike locks, helmets, Honda jackets, and baskets. You can typically choose two bonuses along with a discount on the purchase price. Consider your preferences and select the bonuses that best suit your needs. Additionally, it is advisable to purchase insurance, which may include coverage for motorbike theft. The cost of insurance is relatively low and offers peace of mind.

Number Plates and Completion of Documentation

At the time of purchase, the dealership may provide you with a temporary document stating that your motorbike is new and awaiting number plates. Although missing number plates may not attract police attention, it is advisable to complete the documentation process. Typically, number plates are issued within a month of purchase.

A Comprehensive Guide to Buying a Motorbike in Chiang Mai – Oil Changes and Maintenance

Regular oil changes are essential for maintaining the performance of your motorbike. Natmotor offers a free oil can and advises a first oil change after riding approximately 1,500 kilometers. Subsequent oil changes are recommended at 2,500-kilometer intervals. The dealership may charge around 200-300 Baht for an oil change, and it is advisable to plan accordingly, as the process may take a few hours.

Fueling Your Motorbike

When it comes to fueling your Honda Click 125i, use gas type 91. At gas stations, you’ll find designated queues for scooters. If there is no separate queue, approach the gas station worker and say “91, full please” to request a full tank of gas. Ensure that your bike is switched off before refueling and open the seat for easy access. The cost of a full tank is approximately 100 Baht (2.50 GBP or 3 EUR), as displayed on the gas machine’s panel. While tipping is not expected, gas station workers may accept tips if offered.

A Comprehensive Guide to Buying a Motorbike in Chiang Mai: Tips – Conclusion

Purchasing a motorbike in Chiang Mai can be an exciting and practical decision for long-term residents. By following the steps outlined in this guide, including choosing a reliable dealership like Natmotor, preparing the necessary documents, obtaining a residency certificate, selecting bonuses and insurance options, and understanding maintenance requirements, you can confidently navigate the process of buying and owning a motorbike in Chiang Mai. Enjoy the freedom and convenience that comes with exploring this vibrant city on your own two wheels.