
Rent Motorcycle for India Tour
Long-distance motorcycle touring is hugely popular in India. However, it can be quite an undertaking; there are some popular motorcycle tours for those who don’t want the rigmarole of going it alone.
The most preferred starting point for motorcycle tours is Delhi, as well as Manali, and popular destinations include Rajasthan, South India and Ladakh. Weather is an important factor and you should check for the best times to visit different areas. To cross from neighbouring countries, check the latest regulations and paperwork requirements from the relevant diplomatic mission.
Driving Licence
To hire a motorcycle in India, technically you’re required to have a valid international drivers’ permit in addition to your domestic licence. In tourist areas, some places may rent out a motorcycle without asking for a driving permit/licence, but you won’t be covered by insurance in the event of an accident, and may also face a fine.
Hire
The classic way to motorcycle around India is on a Royal Enfield, built to both vintage and modern specs. Fully manual, these are easy to repair (parts can be found almost everywhere in India). On the other hand, Enfields are often less reliable than many of the newer, Japanese-designed bikes.
Plenty of places rent out motorcycles for local trips and longer tours. Japanese- and Indian-made bikes in the 100cc to 150cc range are cheaper than the big 350cc to 500cc Enfields.
As security, you’ll need to leave a large cash deposit (ensure you get a receipt that stipulates the refundable amount) or your passport/air ticket. We strongly advise not leaving these documents, in particular your passport, which you need for hotel check-ins and if stopped by the police.
For three weeks’ hire, a 500cc Enfield costs from ₹25, 000 to ₹28, 000; a 350cc costs ₹18, 000 to ₹22, 000. The price will include accessories, spare parts, tolls required for the journey and an invaluable free maintenance course.
As for accessories, helmets are available for ₹1000 to ₹5500, with the best Indian brand 'Studs' coming in many different models. Extras (panniers, luggage racks, protection bars, rear-view mirrors, lockable fuel caps, petrol filters, extra tools) are also easy to come by.