When riding a motorbike for the first time in Vietnam, many tourists are confused and easily make common motorbike mistakes in Vietnam due to the differences in roads and traffic patterns. With experience working with thousands of travelers, Rental Motorbike Vietnam understands the most common mistakes and how to avoid them effectively. If you are planning to explore by motorbike, follow this article to prepare more confidently.
Common motorbike mistakes in Vietnam most commonly encountered by tourists
Many foreign tourists who are driving in Vietnam for the first time often encounter unexpected situations because they are not familiar with the local traffic culture. Below are some common motorbike mistakes in Vietnam.
Not wearing a standard helmet

This is one of the most common motorbike mistakes in Vietnam. Many international tourists often wear fashionable tourist hats or cloth hats, but this is both illegal and extremely dangerous. The helmet has no protective structure and can easily come off in a collision. Instead, you should choose a standard 3/4 or full-face helmet with a sturdy lock and inspection stamp.
Going into the car lane or going the wrong way
This is the most serious mistake in the group of common motorbike mistakes in Vietnam because it can lead to a strong collision. Tourists often go the wrong way or do not pay attention to signs, leading to driving into the car lane or going the wrong way to “save time”. Because cars go fast, visibility is limited, and braking distance is long.
Braking suddenly, especially when encountering crowds
Vietnam’s streets are often crowded and there are many unexpected situations. If you brake suddenly, you can easily skid or crash into the car in front. Or many people only brake in front, causing the vehicle to lose balance.

Not used to honking to communicate
In Vietnam, the horn is not as “annoying” as in many other countries. It is a signal for road users to know that you are approaching. Many tourists are afraid to honk, causing the person in front to not have time to react.
Overtaking at the wrong time
This is a common mistake in common motorbike mistakes in Vietnam, especially on small roads or roads with many trucks. Why is it dangerous? Narrow roads, large vehicles blocking the view, not enough distance to accelerate safely.
- When to overtake: when there is enough space ahead, visibility and speed.
- When to absolutely avoid: when there is a curve, a slope, or a large vehicle moving close to the motorbike lane.
Dangerous mistakes that tourists rarely expect
Besides common mistakes, there are still many common motorbike mistakes in Vietnam that tourists do not anticipate. These situations often appear when you have become more confident after a few days of riding, but are subjective in a complex traffic environment.
Riding at night when you are not familiar with the road

Riding at night is one of the common motorbike mistakes in Vietnam that many tourists do not properly assess the level of risk. At night, visibility is poor, signs are difficult to see, many roads do not have lights and oncoming vehicles turn on their headlights, causing glare. For beginners, this can easily lead to going in the wrong lane or missing intersections.
Riding in heavy rain
Heavy rain is a characteristic of many areas in Vietnam, especially the North and Central regions. This is a situation that can easily cause accidents but is often overlooked in the list of common motorbike mistakes in Vietnam. Roads are slippery in the rain, painted lines are blurred, potholes are covered by water and motorbikes can easily lose balance when braking suddenly.
Confidently climbing hills and slopes without experience
Climbing hills and slopes is a great experience but also one of the highest risks of common motorbike mistakes in Vietnam. Roads such as Ha Giang, Moc Chau, Da Lat or Hai Van Pass have many hairpin turns, steep slopes, small roads and no guardrails. Inexperienced people can easily burn their brakes, enter corners too quickly or lose control of the vehicle’s center of gravity.
How to avoid common motorbike mistakes in Vietnam
To travel safely and confidently on the streets of Vietnam, tourists need to prepare carefully before driving.
Practice driving in a deserted area before going on the main road

For tourists new to driving in Vietnam, practicing in a large area or on roads with few vehicles is extremely necessary. This helps you get used to the brakes, throttle, steering sensitivity and speed of the vehicle. When you master the basic operations, you will limit many common motorbike mistakes in Vietnam such as sudden braking, swaying when cornering or slow handling when encountering unexpected situations.
Observe 3 directions, 2 seconds – “slow but flow” rule
Vietnamese traffic culture relies heavily on observation and flexibility. The “slow but flow” rule helps you blend into the traffic safely. Looking left, right, ahead, keeping a steady speed and avoiding sudden acceleration will help you get through intersections, narrow roads or small alleys without falling into common motorbike mistakes in Vietnam.
>> SEE MORE: Explore the top motorbike destinations in Vietnam safely
Rent a motorbike from a reputable company
Choosing a quality motorbike rental company is key to avoiding risks related to broken motorbikes, weak brakes, and flat tires, the causes of many common motorbike mistakes in Vietnam.
Rental Motorbike Vietnam is the top choice for tourists thanks to:
- The motorbike is carefully checked and maintained before delivery
- Insurance and standard helmets are available
- 24/7 support in case of problems
- Delivery to your door in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City

Avoiding common motorbike mistakes in Vietnam will help you enjoy your motorbike adventure more safely and more enjoyable. Rental Motorbike Vietnam is always here to support, from preparing the bike, safety checks to advice on appropriate riding skills. If you want to have a smooth journey, contact us for advice today.
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