Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Motorcycle
Despite traffic challenges, India is an amazing country for long-distance motorcycle touring. 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.
Weather is an important factor and you should check for the best times to visit different areas. To cross from neigh-
bouring 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 motor- cycle around India is on a Royal Enfield, built to both vintage and modern specs. As well as
making a satisfying chugging sound, these bikes are fully manual, making them easy to repair (parts can be found al-
most everywhere in India). On the other hand, Enfields are often less reliable than many of the newer, Japanese-de-
signed bikes.
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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.
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As security, you'll need to leave a large cash deposit (ensure you get a receipt that stipulates the refundable amount),
your passport or air ticket. We strongly advise not leaving these documents, in particular your passport which you need
for hotel check-ins and if asked by the police.
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For three weeks' hire, a 500cc Enfield costs from ?22,000; a 350cc costs ?15,000. The price includes excellent advice
and an invaluable crash course in Enfield mechanics and repairs.
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Helmets are available for ?500 to ?2000; extras (panniers, luggage racks, protection bars, rear-view mirrors, lockable
fuel caps, petrol filters, extra tools) are also easy to come by.
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A useful website for Enfield models is
www.royalenfield.com
. In Mumbai,
Allibhai Premji Tyrewalla
(
022-23099313;
www.premjis.com
;
205 Dr D Bhadkamkar (Lamington) Rd) sells new and secondhand motorcycles with
a buy-back option.
Purchase
For longer tours, purchasing a motorcycle may sound like a great idea. However, sales of motor vehicles to foreigners
come with reams of complicated paperwork, and in many situations, procuring a motorcycle might not be possible or
feasible at all.
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Secondhand bikes are widely available (and paperwork is simpler than for a new machine). To find a secondhand mo-
torcycle, check travellers' noticeboards and ask motorcycle mechanics and other bikers.
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A well-looked-after secondhand 350cc Enfield costs ?40,000 to ?50,000. The 500cc model ranges between ?50,000
and ?65,000. You will also have to pay for insurance.
