​Cambodia's roads resonate with the hum of motorbikes, integral to the nation's daily life, commerce, and family dynamics. In the aftermath of the Pol Pot regime, personal transportation was scarce, with bicycles serving as vital lifelines during the country's rebuilding phase. Even today, the sight of old-fashioned cycle taxis in Phnom Penh, pedaled by elderly men, harks back to this era.

As Cambodia progressed, motorbikes became the primary mode of transport, reshaping daily routines and economic activities. Despite a burgeoning economy and the increasing presence of SUVs and pickup trucks, especially in rural areas, two-wheelers remain indispensable. It's common to witness families of six or seven, including children, sharing a single motorbike—a testament to its crucial role, particularly among those with limited means.

Dominating the streets are models like the Honda Dream and Honda Wave (100cc to 125cc). These reliable workhorses facilitate daily commutes, transport goods for vendors, and adeptly navigate both urban and rural terrains, thanks to their durability and fuel efficiency.

In urban centers like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, automatic scooters such as the Yamaha Nouvo, Mio, Suzuki Let's/Step, and Honda Icon are favored by the youth. Their ease of handling and automatic transmissions make them ideal for city navigation.

For heavier loads, robust models like the Taiwanese SYM and Sanyang motorbikes, along with the Honda MD, are prevalent. Ranging from 90cc to 150cc, these motorbikes often tow trailers laden with construction materials, produce, livestock, and furniture, supporting small businesses and farms, especially in areas with challenging road conditions.

Affordable models like the Suzuki Smash and Suzuki Viva are also widespread, appreciated for their straightforward mechanics and cost-effectiveness, serving both urban commuters and rural inhabitants.

Modern scooters such as the Honda Click, PCX, and Scoopy are gaining popularity, offering comfort, style, and safety features like ABS and ESP. The Yamaha Qbix, with its futuristic design, appeals to younger riders seeking advanced features. Premium options like modern Vespas and Lambrettas cater to those desiring a distinctive presence on the road.

The Thai brand GPX, along with some Chinese manufacturers and Indian brands like Bajaj and Royal Enfield, have entered the market, providing stylish and affordable alternatives and expanding consumer choices. Higher-end motorcycles from manufacturers such as KTM, BMW, Triumph, and Ducati are also becoming increasingly common on Cambodia's improving road network, appealing to riders seeking more performance and prestige.

For off-road adventures and weekend excursions, the Honda XR 250, CRF 250, Yamaha WR 250, or Kawasaki D-Tracker are essential. These capable machines conquer challenging terrain and remote trails with ease, though they are occasionally outmatched by skilled local riders on their more modest, V-shaped, semi-automatic motorcycles.

For tourists exploring Cambodia, a variety of motorbike options cater to different adventure preferences. For city navigation and short trips on well-paved roads, small scooters under 125cc, such as the Honda Scoopy or Yamaha Mio, are recommended for their ease of use and maneuverability. Those venturing beyond urban areas will find 250cc all-rounders (like the FTR, SL230, Big Boy 250, or similar models) or dirt bikes like the Honda CRF 250 or Yamaha WR 250 ideal for handling diverse terrains, regardless of road conditions. For more adventurous travelers, larger adventure models offer the comfort, power, and durability needed for extended journeys across Cambodia's varied landscapes.

Despite the rapid economic growth and the increasing presence of SUVs, two-wheelers continue to play a pivotal role in Cambodia's transportation landscape. Classic models like the Daelim City and Honda Cub (or MD), icons of the 1990s and early 2000s, remain common sights. Additionally, there's a growing trend of larger displacement motorcycles gaining popularity among enthusiasts for leisure riding and collecting, adding another dimension to Cambodia's vibrant motorbike culture amid swift modernization.

Whatever you choose to ride, ride safely, enjoy the trip, and adapt to Cambodia's sometimes smooth, sometimes erratic flow of traffic. What would be your ride on Cambodian roads?

For those planning long-term, multi-country travel through Southeast Asia, buying a motorcycle is a practical and cost-effective option. Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia are the best countries to purchase a bike, depending on your travel needs. Mototom Cambodia offers a particularly convenient solution: you can buy a motorbike and sell it back at the end of your trip, making it an excellent choice for those seeking flexibility and value. Contact us for this service.

Cambodia: Simple and Flexible

Cambodia is one of the easiest countries in Southeast Asia to purchase a motorbike. No registration is needed for short-term use, and the process is relatively hassle-free. A motorbike purchased here can cross into Laos without issues. However, it’s essential to ensure the bike has a "card gris", which is the registration card that matches the bike’s plate number. This will be needed for border crossings. While insurance is not mandatory in Cambodia, travelers should always check their personal insurance to ensure they are covered in case of an accident.

The road conditions in Cambodia can vary significantly, especially in rural areas. While major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have well-maintained roads, many rural roads can be rough and challenging. It's best to opt for a sturdy bike if you're planning to explore beyond urban centers. Despite the lack of mandatory insurance, it’s always a good idea to ensure you're covered with personal travel insurance that includes motorbike accidents.

Vietnam: Entry Restrictions and Registration

Vietnam is another popular destination for purchasing a motorbike, but it comes with more restrictions. Similar to Cambodia, you don't need to register the bike for short-term use, and motorbikes can easily cross into Laos and Cambodia. However, it’s crucial that the bike has a "blue card" for registration, which may be requested at border crossings.

One key challenge when traveling in Vietnam is its strict border policy. Vietnam does not allow motorbikes to enter from neighboring countries unless they are registered under a Vietnamese owner or a Vietnamese guide accompanies you. This can make traveling from abroad to Vietnam by motorbike particularly difficult. It is sometimes better to just buy a motorbike with Vietnamese registration in Cambodia to make it easier.

Additionally, while it is not mandatory to have motorcycle insurance in Vietnam, travelers must check that their personal insurance covers motorbike use. Since road conditions in Vietnam can vary from smooth highways to narrow, winding mountain roads, it’s crucial to ensure your bike is suitable for the terrain you plan to explore.

Thailand: Strict Regulations and Insurance Requirements

Thailand offers some of the best infrastructure for motorbike travel in Southeast Asia. However, it has stricter regulations compared to Cambodia and Vietnam. All motorbikes in Thailand must be registered with a "green book", which acts as the official ownership document. This registration is necessary for the bike to be legal on Thai roads. Thai motorbikes can be taken into Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia, but they cannot be driven into Vietnam.

When traveling in Thailand, it is mandatory to have Thai motorcycle insurance. Without it, you risk fines, complications with law enforcement, and a lack of protection in case of an accident. It’s also important to note that Thailand allows travelers to cross borders with a motorbike registered in their name, but this still requires appropriate documentation and insurance.

Aside from the legalities, Thailand’s road network is generally in excellent condition, making it ideal for long-distance travel. Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of Bangkok or exploring rural areas, a motorbike can provide unmatched flexibility and adventure. However, for peace of mind, always ensure that your personal travel insurance covers motorbike use, especially if you're riding in more remote areas.

Choosing the Right Bike

When selecting a motorbike for your travels, it’s best to go for a light bike (125cc to 450cc). These offer the right balance of power and fuel efficiency for SEA roads, making them suitable for both city commuting and longer journeys through rural areas. In cities, a lighter bike, such as a scooter, can be convenient and easy to maneuver. For more rugged terrain, especially if you plan to venture off-road, an all-rounder or dual-sport bike is recommended.

Before making a purchase, always inspect the bike thoroughly. Check its condition, especially if it’s a used model. Cheaper might be also less reliable, prefer Japanese brands over cheaply manufactured Vietnamese or Chinese old models. Typically, the cheapest small motorbikes can be found at $350usd or more (Detec Win 125, old Honda Wave 110 or older 125cc Suzuki Hayate scooter), but good mid-size motorbikes (around 250cc and bigger) would usually cost more around 1500 to $3000. You may find some big motorbikes for about 1000usd but they are not trouble free. Make sure that the bike’s documentation, such as the registration card, matches the plate number, vin number and other details. This will ensure that you don’t face any issues when crossing borders or dealing with local authorities.

Insurance Considerations

While insurance is not mandatory in Cambodia and Laos, it’s always a good idea to check that your personal insurance policy covers motorbike use in these countries. In Thailand, however, insurance is a legal requirement to ride a motorbike. Ensure you purchase the appropriate coverage before riding in Thailand, as this is vital for your safety and legal compliance. To know more about this, read our article about crossing the Thai border.

Before embarking on your journey, review your personal travel insurance to confirm that it includes protection for motorbike accidents. Even if insurance is not required by local laws, having coverage can provide peace of mind in case of an emergency.

Additional Tips for Traveling by Motorcycle in Southeast Asia

International Driver's Permit (IDP): An IDP is required in Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand for foreign riders. It’s advisable to carry both your IDP and original driver’s license when riding in these countries. In Cambodia, motorbikes under 125cc don't require a A license but it is unclear if foreigners need to carry their foreign license too for these.

Border Crossing: Always carry the necessary documentation when crossing borders with your motorbike. This includes the registration card (e.g., "blue card" or "green book"), passport, and any customs paperwork required by the country you’re entering.

Safety Gear: Never ride without wearing a helmet, and consider additional protective gear such as gloves, a jacket, and sturdy boots. Southeast Asia’s unpredictable road conditions and traffic can pose a significant risk, especially for travelers unfamiliar with local driving habits (imagine riding over 75km/h and hitting a cow, a dog or a tiller).

Road Conditions: Be prepared for a variety of road conditions. Cities often have good infrastructure, but rural roads can be challenging. Paved highways may give way to gravel roads, mud, or even flooded areas during the monsoon season. Riding in rural areas requires caution, and it's wise to check weather conditions before venturing out.

Maintenance: In most cities and towns in Southeast Asia, bike maintenance is inexpensive, and parts are readily available. However, if you are traveling to more remote areas, it’s wise to carry a small tool kit and some basic spare parts, like tubes or a chain, to avoid delays in case of a breakdown.

By purchasing a motorbike in Southeast Asia, you gain the freedom to explore the region at your own pace. Whether you're traversing the roads of Vietnam, Cambodia, or Thailand, having your own motorcycle offers unparalleled flexibility and adventure. Just make sure to follow the local laws, check your insurance coverage, and choose the right bike for your journey.

Purpose: The Cambodian driver's license serves as a form of identification, allows you to get an insurance for your vehicle (insurance coverage in Cambodia is only applicable with a local permit), and is recognized in ASEAN countries. As per the 1985 Agreement among ASEAN nations, a Cambodian driving license is accepted in countries like Malaysia and Thailand for instance.

Application Process: The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT) manages Cambodian driver's license issuance. Applications can be submitted at their main offices in Phnom Penh and Provincial Department of Public Works and Transport offices.

Main Offices in Phnom Penh:

Aeon Mall 2 – Sen Sok City
Location: 2nd floor, adjacent to ABA and Acleda Bank.
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9 am to 10 pm.

General Department of Public Works and Transport Main Office
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30 am to 12 pm, 2 pm to 5:30 pm.
Application Steps and Requirements:

Gather Your Documents:

• Valid Passport (minimum validity of 6 months).
• Cambodian Visa (proof of legal status and long term residency).
• Foreign Driver's License (in English, French, or Khmer).
• Certificate of Residence stamped by your Sangkat.
• Three recent passport photos (4x6 cm, white background).
• Medical Certificate (available at Driver's License Centers for around 10,000 riels).
• Driving License Fee (typically 100,000 riels or $25).
• Work Permit or Long-Term Visa if applicable.

Visit the Office:
Submit your application and documents in person.

Stay Updated: Confirm recent fee and requirement changes with local authorities or the MPWT website. Contact Chris from Mototom if you can help with updates and personal experience. Thank you.

Upon arrival, head to the second office on the left after the reception area to gather information. Look for the large red and white electric pole on your right while on Road 5. The Heavy Truck Training Center is right there on the right-hand side. It is a large, well-organized facility that is hard to miss.
For general details in English, you can call 1275 (Government phone number information), though note that English proficiency may vary. For motorcycle licenses, call 092 719 106.


1 - REGISTERING:

It is recommended to visit the test facility in person to register for a future test date. The wait time can vary depending on the number of attendees, but usually, it's the next day. Some members have successfully registered online recently, which is a new improvement.

Prepare the following DOCUMENTS:

• Letter of residency from your Sangkat. Ensure it specifically mentions driving license; regular letters have been refused in the past. Have a Khmer native speaker verify the translation.
• 3 ID photos (4x6 cm).
• Passport + photocopy of passport.
• Visa + photocopy, with previous stamps as proof of long-term stay in Cambodia or at least 6 months remaining on a 12-month visa.

TOTAL COST: 120,000 riels ($30) (+ 1,000 riels for photocopies).

Breakdown:

• Test cost: 100,000 riels ($25) (for a car: $45) to be paid via apps such as Acleda or ABA.
• Eye test cost: 20,000 riels ($5) per license.
• Photocopies: 1,000 riels (if not prepared in advance).

Prefer paying in local currency. If paying in dollars, no daily conversion. The price is $25 for the license and $5 for the eye test. Payments are now only accepted through apps. Contact us if there are updates to the price or policy.
All payments can be made in cash or through Wing and ABA. An additional 1,000 riels in cash is required for photocopies.
​

2 - TEST DAY:

THEORY: The theory test is conducted in a group from 9 to 10 am. You will answer 35 questions (40 for car tests) on a computer, similar to the CAMBODIA DRIVING RULES app used for training.

TIPS: Download the app and practice:
Apple Store
Google Play The app is available in both English and Khmer.
MPWT Website

HOT TIP: Focus on the “Champion” section of the app for quick revision and mock tests.
​
RIDING TEST (Monday to Friday only):
Practical tests for cars and bikes usually start around 10:30 am. You may complete your test and receive your license card before 3-4 pm.

For the riding test, you will navigate a course and perform a slalom maneuver involving 6 cones (previously 8), spaced about 2.5 meters apart. The circuit includes mocked-up junctions, rail crossings, and traffic lights. The test starts with a stop on an incline.

The slalom test requires practice; a lighter bike is preferred. Avoid very low custom bikes and very heavy sport or cruiser bikes. A bike like the Ducati 1000 DS is not ideal for the test; instead, consider bikes like the Honda FTR, SL230, XR, or other 200-250cc trail and classic bikes.


For a visual reference, check out this video: YouTube Video

Good luck!

Insurance Requirements:

• Insurance is not mandatory to enter Cambodia, but it is required for those entering or returning to Thailand. In Cambodia, if you want a Cambodian insurance, you can use Forte insurance.
• You can obtain specific travel insurance in Thailand from providers like AXA before crossing the Thai border. This can be easily done online and has to be planned ahead.

Required Original and Printed Documents at the Border:

• Valid passport (front page and inside pages)
• Vehicle registration document in your name or with proper documentation to allow you to use the vehicle abroad
• Valid driver's license (ASEAN or international with an International Driving Permit)

Additional Documents for Thai Vehicles Entering Cambodia:

• TM2 form (information of conveyance)
• TM3 form (passenger list) if you have passengers

Fees:

• 100 THB processing fee for Thai vehicles entering Cambodia
• $35 USD visa fee to enter Cambodia (exact USD amount is recommended)

Tips and Advice:

• It's recommended to use the O'Smach (Chom Chom / O’smach) border crossing instead of Poipet, as it is generally easier and more trouble-free. Although Poipet seems to have been eased for cars recently, it is regularly reported as not recommended by motorcyclists who had to turn to another border. Choam / Sa-Ngam and Phsar Phrum / Banpuggard are also recommended by riders.
• Make sure you are not crossing at a military-only border.
• On your departure card, crossing to Cambodia, be sure to indicate the border you will be leaving from.
• If you fill out the eCustoms form online for temporary vehicles before your trip, you won't have to leave your vehicle's "green book" at the border. If you don't complete the eCustoms form, you'll need to leave the green book at the border, and you won't be able to exit through a different border.
• Prepare photocopies of all your documents and have the exact change for any fees.
• Aim to cross the border during off-peak hours to avoid long queues.
• Cambodian Regulations: According to the Prakas on the Implementation of Safety Rules and Regulations to Facilitate Self-Driving Tours, the key requirements for bringing a temporary entry-exit vehicle into Cambodia include:

1.  Completing a summary declaration form (entry) and submitting it to the customs officer at the border
2. Providing copies of your passport, driver's license, vehicle identification, and other required documents
3. Temporarily exempted from the requirement for a Cambodian legal insurance card

Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional information to be included in this guide.

Find the Praka (Cambodian law) text on Mototom Facebook: ​https://www.facebook.com/share/p/pe5npYPUrT9X4xHP/

What is a VIN number and what is its purpose?

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your motorcycle provides crucial information about the model, country of origin, and year of manufacture. Depending on the manufacturer, model year, and country, VIN locations on your motorcycle frame can vary. Modern motorbikes typically have the VIN stamped on a little black and silver plate near the headstock (steering neck) or on a frame rail. The VIN must match the motorcycle's registration; otherwise, the registration is not legal.

Note: Most vehicles nowadays have 17 digits as VIN numbers. However, some Japanese or exotic imports may have only 11, 12, or 13 digits stamped on the frame instead of a regular VIN plate.

If you are unsure of your motorbike's year of manufacture, especially since older registration cards in Cambodia might not list it, you can check the VIN online and decode it (or the frame number if a regular VIN plate is missing). Modern international VINs are 17 digits long (since 1981 in the USA), while older and exotic motorcycles may have 11 or 13-digit VINs. Japanese imported motorcycles often have an 11-digit VIN, which can be challenging to decode as they do not include the year of manufacture, making it difficult to find this information (contact Chris from Mototom Cambodia to find such info).

The VIN number helps you identify legitimate registration and easily find parts (especially when ordering online through websites such as CMNL).

The engine number on the bottom or side of the engine can help you determine if the motorbikes have their original engine or if it has been swapped.

Here are a few websites where you can check your VIN number online. Be cautious of anyone misrepresenting the year of manufacture or providing illegal registration (as some motorbikes might have incorrect plates or registration cards).

Check your 17 digits VIN with the following websites:

• cyclepedia
• dmv/motorcycle-vin-decoder
• faxvin
• vincheck

For other VIN or if you don't find the right info you can ask Mototom for help.

​Let's decode the VIN of your motorcycle (eg: JH2RC46A4XM105329):

J- The first character is for the country/manufacturer factory location (here made in Japan, Hamamatsu Shizuoka plant).
H- The second shows the manufacturer (here Honda).
2- The third indicates the vehicle type.
RC46A- Characters four through eight detail the brand, type, engine, model, and series.
4- The ninth character is a security code.
X- The tenth represents the model year.
M- The eleventh identifies the assembly plant.
105429 - The last six numbers = the serial number.

Visit Wikipedia for more historical details about VIN numbers.

See the wild moments from this weekend's Bike & Car Show at Siem Reap's old airport! 🚗🏍️ (Captured on Saturday) Have you experienced the adrenaline rush firsthand? Share your epic photos and videos in the comments below! 📸🎥t.

Zed Chiang (Zed CM) aka Motogirlthailand spent quite some time making her motogirlthailand.com's website. As a result you can find good contents such as her 'Riding in Thailand Guide'. This website really worth a visit.
A useful place for us riders to gather all details needed while riding or even simply living in Thailand.
Beware that some info might be outdated by very recent events (such as border crossing rules after Covid). However still an up-to-date website overall.

​Have a look!
​
𝐑𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐞 by Zed Chiang
Content:
• How to Ride Legally
• How to Obtain a Thai License
• Tax & Insurance
• Training Facilities
• Rental Options
• Buying & Selling
• Thailand Road Rules
• Riding Tips

​LATEST UPDATE: The venue for the driving license is OPEN. The eye test (also called the health check now) fee is 10,000 Riels (someone reported once that it was 20,000 but has been updated since to 10,000 based on recent confirmations).  Drivers over 60 years old should be aware that their license validity will be reduced to 2 years instead of 10 years (lately some received a 5-year validity license instead. Maybe a permanent update. To confirm). Both cars and motorbikes are available on location for you to pass the test (loan). Thanks.

If looking for renewal or conversion from foreign license please read our latest post here.

LOCATION on Road National 5:
Heavy Truck Training Center
NR5, Phnom Penh
Map on Google click here

This location is for all kind of licenses from motorbikes to trucks.

Process:
You can go on location to the second office on the left after the reception area to gather some information.
Look for the big red and white electric pole on your right while on road 5. Heavy Truck Training Center is right there on the right-hand side. It is big and well organized, you won't miss the place.

You can call 1275 (Government phone number information) to get general details in English (expect this to be different than expected though. Some locals might speak a poor English). FOR MOTORCYCLE LICENSE call 092719106
#####

1 - REGISTERING:
It is recommended to come in person to the test facility in advance to register to be tested on a future date. Can vary depending on how many people attend the test. usually the next day. Worth noting that some of our members recently registered themselves online with success. This is a recent improvement.

Prepare the following DOCUMENTS:

-Letter of residency from your Sangkat. Make 100% sure that it is a specific letter for driving license. Regular letters were refused in the past. Ask a Khmer native speaker to translate for confirmation.

-3 id photos 4x6.

-Passport + photocopy of passport.

-Visa + photocopy with previous stamps as proof of long term stay in Cambodia or at least 6 month validity left of 12 months.

TOTAL COST is 120,000 riels ($30) (+ 1000 riels photocopies*).
Test cost= 100,000 riels ($25). ($45 for a car)
Eye test cost per license= 20,000 riels ($5)
*Photocopies cost= 1000 riels (if you didn't make them prior to your visit at the venue).
Prefer local currency. If in dollars, no daily conversion. If in dollars, price is $25 for license and $5 for eye test.
(contact us if updated to a new price or new policy).
All paid cash or through Wing and ABA. 1000 riels in cash for photocopy.

2 - TEST DAY:

THEORY: Theory test takes place in one group from 9 to 10am.
You need to answer 35 questions (40 for car's test) on a computer exactly like you would do on the app used for training called CAMBODIA DRIVING RULES (available on Playstore for Android and available also for iPhone)

TIPS: Download the App, practice and revise:
Apple Store
Google Play

* The APP is in both English and Khmer
MPWT Website: https://www.mpwt.gov.kh/en/public-services/driver-s-license
INSIDE🔥HOT🔥TIP; focus only on the “Champion” section of the app for quick revision and mock tests.

RIDING TEST:
Practical testing for cars and bikes can start by 10:30am (expect updates). You might be tested and get the license card printed before the 11am lunch break. Otherwise, you have to come back for the afternoon session which starts at 2pm.

You need to ride around the course and do an 8 cones slalom which are about more than 2m30 apart. The quite easy circuit on the test facility involves mocked up junctions, rail crossings, traffic lights, etc. Beware that the test begins with a stop uphill.

The 8 cones slalom requires a lot of practice (most failed by lack of practice or using a huge bike that is not convenient) which can be done before 9am or in the afternoon. Prefer light bikes. Avoid very low customs and very sporty bikes. Very heavy custom, cruiser, sport-bike and very big bikes won't make it, unless you are a very experienced rider already.

Have a look at what it looks like compared to a 'western type' of slalom in my video (click the link below). Note that the Ducati 1000 DS is one of the worst bike for the license practice test. Prefer Honda FTR, SL230, XR or any other 200-250cc trail and classic bike.

Video of slalom

Cheers and best luck!

Read more about the Training Center here.

Baby Versys, Baby Tenere, spoked wheels CB500X version, enduro bikes with less power and maintenance, better new KLX, revamped DR?

There is a gap in the market that manufacturer didn't fill yet.

Which motorbike is missing in your opinion? Would you love the Himalayan with 50hp, or the return of a small KLR/KLE in 2021? What is your unicorn?

See more in the video below.

Watch the video of chroniclesofsolid
​https://youtu.be/xl7aKhYmT_M