Apart from the sun-kissed beaches, verdant landscapes and bustling nightlife, the ease of access to local transport makes Goa a convenient and laid-back tourist destination. While in other Indian cities you have to rely upon private cabs or overcrowded buses for commuting within the city, Goa offers you the very comforting option of renting a bike and getting around the place on your own. Self-riding bike rentals offer you the freedom to go wherever you want and whenever you want. Just pay the bike rental and you are ready to explore the state in all its glory.
Places for Renting a Bike in Goa
You can find a bike provider at every nook and corner in Goa. You can simply ask your hotel staff for the nearest bike provider from where you can easily pick a bike on rent. Panaji, the capital of Goa remains the best place to find bikes for rent in Goa. You can easily find a host of shops renting out bikes as you move out from the railway and bus terminus.
Cost
In the peak season, a regular bike like Bajaj Pulsar comes for around INR 800 a day and a Honda Activa scooter for around INR 400 a day. High-end bikes like Royal Enfield may cost INR 1200 a day. In the off-season, rates of bike for rent in Goa are lower and a Pulsar can be availed at approximately INR 600 a day, a Honda Activa for INR 250 a day and a Royal Enfield for INR 900 a day.
Documents Required for Bike Renting in Goa
License - You will have to submit your valid two-wheeler license to the bike dealer when you rent the bike. You can keep a copy with you while you drive.
Identification Proof - You can also submit a valid photo ID like PAN card or passport to the dealer
Bike Documents - Make sure you ask for all bike documents before you rent a two-wheeler as if the need arises at any point of time, you will need to produce the documents and won't be excused because you are a tourist.
Things to Keep in Mind While Renting a Bike in Goa
Test the bike -
Make sure to test the bike for 100-200m before you finalize upon it. Several bikes are old and not in great condition and may give you problems while you travel. Thus, it is necessary to make sure that it is completely functional. Goa has several roads with no streetlights and it is crucial you make sure that the brakes, headlights, and rear-view mirrors are working properly.
Make sure to test the bike for 100-200m before you finalize upon it. Several bikes are old and not in great condition and may give you problems while you travel. Thus, it is necessary to make sure that it is completely functional. Goa has several roads with no streetlights and it is crucial you make sure that the brakes, headlights, and rear-view mirrors are working properly.
Note down dealer's contact information -
Do not forget to note down your bike dealer's mobile/contact number so that you can call him in case you run into any trouble while on road. Generally, most dealers have contacts all over the state and they can help you if required.
Check the fuel level -
Mostly, bikes for rent in Goa do not have any fuel in them when they are rented out. When you pick up a bike, check the fuel level and make sure to refill the fuel within the first 5-10 minutes of renting. Bikes run out of petrol immediately after they are taken on rent and it is best to avoid getting stuck on a road with no source of fuel.
Take the Accessories -
It is mandatory to wear helmets in Goa and you might get charged if you aren't wearing one. So, make sure you pick one along with your bike. You need not pay extra for your helmet as it is covered in the bike rental.
Timely Return -
Make sure you return your bike at the time it is decided because in case you are late even by few hours, the dealer will try to charge you extra
Record the bike condition -
If there are any scratches or damages on the bike before you rent it, take pictures of it and show it to the dealer before you begin your ride. This way, you cannot be held responsible for any damages when you return the bike.
Stay Safe
Many times, you will come across someone racing away or trying to overtake you. In such situations, make sure you maintain your wisdom and keep your speed under control. Don't spoil your trip by engaging in any kind of verbal dispute with anyone. Enjoy the road and stay away from those who might sabotage your safety.
Caution
Always hire a bike with a yellow number plate as it is a part of the Tourist Taxi Owners Association and is legally rented out. Many private two-wheelers are illegally rented out in Goa and carry white number plates. Tourists driving such vehicles may fall into unnecessary trouble as their vehicles may be seized at any point in time by the local police. Attempts to contact the dealer in such cases mostly go in vain and you are left stranded on a road far away from your hotel.
With liberty in choosing a local mode of transport at affordable prices, it is no surprise that renting bikes in Goa has become an extremely popular way of traveling in the coastal heaven. It is among the best ways to travel around the state. Let us know in the comments below should you want to know anything more regarding renting bikes in Goa.