Chiang Mai Bike Week Guide
Chiang Mai | December | Motorcycle Event
A guide outlining what to expect at the annual Chiang Mai Bike Week main event. *Note* Dates vary, so check to find out when the next one will be taking place (the dates are normally announced in October/November).
Why Visit
Unlike many motorcycle events, Chiang Mai Bike Week isn’t just for bikers. Whether you ride or simply enjoy motorcycles, it’s an entertaining day out with custom bikes, manufacturer displays, live music, food stalls, and a relaxed festival atmosphere. If you’re in Chiang Mai in December, it’s well worth dropping by for a few hours.
What to Expect
Unlike many motorcycle events, Chiang Mai Bike Week isn’t just for bikers. Whether you ride or simply enjoy motorcycles, it’s an entertaining day out with custom bikes, manufacturer displays, live music, food stalls, and a relaxed festival atmosphere. If you’re in Chiang Mai in December, it’s well worth visiting.
Key Details: Where? When? How Much?
The location of the event can change each year. However, in recent years it has been held at the Chiang Mai Expo Center
Chiang Mai
Expo Centre
December
Month
1 Day
Main Event
Free
Entry
Contents
When is Chiang Mai Bike Week held?
Chiang Mai Bike Week is usually held in December, although the exact dates vary from year to year. The official dates are typically announced a few months in advance.
Where is Chiang Mai Bike Week held?
In recent years, the main event has been held at the Chiang Mai International Exhibition and Convention Centre (Chiang Mai Expo Centre), but may be held in the grounds of Chiang Mai Airport Mall, or Central Chiang Mai Mall.
How much does it cost to attend?
Entry to the main event is normally free, making it one of the easiest motorcycle festivals in Northern Thailand to visit.
Do I need to own a motorcycle to attend?
No. While the event is aimed at motorcyclists, anyone is welcome to visit and enjoy the displays, live music, food stalls, and entertainment.
What types of motorcycles will I see?
Expect everything from Harley-Davidsons and Triumphs to sports bikes, touring bikes, adventure motorcycles, classic machines, and heavily customised builds.
Is there motorcycle parking available?
Yes. Motorcycle parking is usually available on-site or nearby, although it can become busy during peak evening hours.
What time should I arrive?
You can visit throughout the afternoon, but the event is generally at its busiest and most lively after 6pm when the majority of riders have arrived and the live entertainment begins.
Is food available at the event?
Yes. There are usually plenty of food and drink vendors offering Thai food, snacks, desserts, coffee, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages.
Can I buy motorcycle gear and accessories?
Yes. Many vendors sell riding gear, helmets, accessories, luggage, and motorcycle-related merchandise, often with special event promotions.
Is Chiang Mai Bike Week family-friendly?
Generally, yes. Families often attend during the daytime and early evening. However, it does become busier and more adult-oriented later at night when the live music and entertainment are in full swing.
What to Expect
What Happens at Chiang Mai Bike Week
Chiang Mai Bike Week has a main weekend event showcasing a mix of bikes, interesting vehicles, presentations, events, promos, music and entertainment. Although there are activities during the afternoon, the event really comes alive after sunset when the venue fills with bikes and visitors.
The Motorcycles
The Motorcycles
The motorcycles are naturally the main attraction. You’ll see everything from immaculate Harley-Davidsons and Triumphs to sports bikes, adventure bikes, touring machines, and heavily customised builds.
Manufacturers such as Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, Husqvarna, BMW Motorrad, Royal Enfield, and Triumph frequently have displays, although participating brands can vary each year.
Alongside the motorcycles are plenty of unusual vehicles, including beautifully restored classic Volkswagens, modified pickups, mini monster trucks, and one-off custom creations that are just as interesting to browse.
Stunts & Performances
Special Activities
Depending on the year, the event may feature stunt riding demonstrations, motorcycle performances, or riding exhibitions.
Previous events have also included activities such as velodrome riding and promotional shows.
Merch & Apparel
Merch, Apparel, & Accessories
Numerous vendors set up stalls selling motorcycle clothing, helmets, luggage, accessories, parts, tools, and riding equipment.
Many exhibitors offer special event discounts, making it a good opportunity to browse new gear or pick up a bargain.
There are also many interesting additions, such as this “Hearmet” Helmet.
Food, Drink & Live Music
Food & Drink
There are plenty of food stalls throughout the venue offering a wide range of Thai dishes, snacks, desserts, and drinks. Coffee, smoothies, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages are all readily available.
- Drinks: Soft drinks, coffee, smoothies, and alcoholic beverages are available in multiple areas.
- Dietary Needs: Vegetarian or vegan options are available but limited—check ingredients with vendors.
Live Music
As the evening progresses, the main stage hosts a variety of live bands and entertainment, often including well-known Thai musicians.
Combined with the rows of parked motorcycles and festival lighting, it creates a lively atmosphere that continues well into the night.
Videos of the Event
Previous Videos of Chiang Mai Bike Week
2018
2017
2016 (Postponed to 2017)
2014
In Closing
A Fun and Friendly Motorcycle Event
Although you’ll see riders representing many different clubs and motorcycle communities, Chiang Mai Bike Week has always felt welcoming and relaxed. Whether you arrive on two wheels or simply come to admire the motorcycles, it’s an enjoyable event with something for almost everyone.
A fantastic event that is well worth visiting.
Did you find this event article helpful? Have you ever participated in an event like this? Leave a comment. I’d be interested to read your thoughts.