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Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to our Nairobi Motorcycle Rental FAQs page!

Here, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions to help you understand everything you need to know about renting motorcycles in Nairobi. From detailed information on our rental processes and pricing to safety guidelines, this page is designed to ensure you have a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Get all your questions answered and start preparing for an unforgettable ride through Kenia!

General Information

  • SAVE TIME: Traffic in Nairobi is notoriously bad. Skip past it now on a motorcycle
  • EXPLORE THE CITY: You can choose to be chauffeured around in a taxi, or to get to know the streets yourself
  • STAY FLEXIBLE: Maybe you want to try a motorcycle until you have found a car – stay flexible
  • USE LOCAL NETWORKS: We will help you get a local license, deal with police stops, accidents and all other issues
  • DRIVING LICENSE: You will need to provide us with a copy of your driving license – valid for driving motorcycles in Kenya
  • PASSPORT: You will need to provide us with a copy of your passport or national identity card
  • PREPAYMENT & DEPOSIT: You will need to pay the full rental fee in advance and leave a deposit of $200 per motorcycle.
Yes, certainly. In fact, we encourage our renters to try the motorcycles before they commit to a rental.

Yes, certainly. The motorcycles are designed to comfortably carry 2 passengers. Riding with an extra passenger will slow down your acceleration but will not affect your max speed.

Rental Terms and Costs

  • RENTAL BIKES: We offer the Kibo K250, the Boxer X150, VOGE and KTM for long & short term rentals.
  • TOURS: We offer guided trips through Kenya for off-road adventure
  • LOCAL LICENSE: We provide advice and tips on when a local license is needed and how to get it
  • LESSONS: Learn with us how to ride a bike from scratch or brush-up on your existing skills
  • SUPPORT: We provide you maximum support in the event of any problems during your rental
  • TRIAL RIDES: We offer trial rides to see whether you are comfortable taking a motorcycle around the city

Costs vary by model and rental duration. Generally, prices range between $25 and $100 per day. A deposit of at least $100 is required, with full payment upfront.

The minimum rental period is 2 days.

Yes, we provide discounts for longer rentals, which can be negotiated based on the duration.

Be prepared for potential border crossing fees and possible stipends to police officers.

No. We operate an unlimited mileage policy.

Yes, you can take the bike to neighbouring countries with an additional charge of $100 per border.

Payment is required in full in advance, along with a security deposit of $100.

No, we will not be able to rent motorcycles to drivers who are not comfortable on the streets, as this would pose a serious threat to their and others’ wellbeing. We do however offer lessons, and it should not take more than 2 or 3 hours/sessions for an eager learner to reach a level where they can start cruising around Nairobi. These lessons will cost you $20 / hour. We can also help you attain a local driving license.

We try our best to provide our customers with the very bikes which they have booked. That said, we have had quite a few last minute cancellations and can therefore only guarantee you that you will receive the requested bike, if you pay 30% of their total rental fee in advance. This amount will be fully reimbursed to you (minus transaction costs) should you  cancel 2 weeks prior to the start of your rental.

We can certainly deliver the motorcycle(s) to a destination of your choice, within Kenya at a surcharge. The exact price will depend on your destination. Please consult reservations for exact details.

Safety and Compliance

What makes Nairobi’s streets dangerous are the potholes which can appear out of nowhere and the unpredictability of drivers. Your risk on the road is very much a function of your own driving style. The speed of traffic is relatively low and if you drive carefully then you will be able to avoid getting into dangerous situations. Choose your roads carefully, narrow ones are generally more dangerous than wider ones, and minimize your nightly driving or at least stick to familiar roads if you do.

Riding in Nairobi can be safe if you drive carefully and choose your routes wisely. Avoid driving at night and stay on wider roads when possible.

In the event of an accident you should contact us immediately and we will send someone directly to your destination to help you collect the necessary information for the insurance and ensure your speedy treatment in case it’s necessary. Please note that you will be liable for any damage to the bike, yourself, or anyone else involved in the accident throughout the course of the rental.
It is more dangerous to drive at night and it’s not recommended by us, simply because you will find it harder to spot potholes. You may also have to deal with drunk drivers. That said, short journeys on roads that you are familiar with should not be a problem. Especially at night it is advisable to wear the reflective vest provided by us.

Booking and Cancellation

Contact iRide immediately; we will assist with insurance information and ensure you receive quick medical attention if necessary.
Yes, we provide remote road support with a dedicated mechanic and satellite partners across East Africa.
Yes, we ensure you always have a functioning bike, although replacement times may vary outside Nairobi.
Customers who cancel more than 2 weeks prior to bike pick-up will be fully reimbursed for any previous payments they have carried out (minus bank transaction costs and any other costs which were incurred already in preparation of the rental, e.g. border crossing papers). Customers who cancel less than 2 weeks prior to bike pick-up are reimbursed 50% of their money (minus transaction costs). Any cancellations or changes in the rental duration which occur during the rental period itself will result in a forfeiting of the already paid amount.

Police and Legal Issues

According to Kenyan law, foreigners have 6 months upon arrival in the country before they must convert their foreign driving license into a Kenyan license. If that period has ended, we can advise you on how best to proceed, but we will generally be able to allow you to ride our motorcycles. If you do not have a valid motorcycle driving license at all, we will strictly speaking not be able to allow you to rent our motorcycles. Again, we can however advise you on how best to attain one in Kenya in a short time frame. We may however, also make an exception granted that you are a strong driver, and allow you to rent a motorcycle. Please note however, that you will in this case be personally responsible for any damage to the motorcycle and or other entities.
To minimize encounters with traffic police while riding in Kenya, it’s advisable to steer clear of frontline positions at busy intersections and roundabouts, especially in areas known for heavy police presence. Riding cautiously and adhering strictly to traffic laws can significantly reduce the likelihood of being stopped. Being aware of your surroundings and avoiding high-traffic areas during peak times can also help you ride smoothly without unwanted police attention.
If you’re stopped by the police while riding in Kenya, remain calm and polite. Provide your driving license and any other documents they request, such as your rental agreement and proof of insurance. It’s important to understand your rights and the local laws; you are entitled to ask the officer for their identification and the reason for being stopped. Always insist on official procedures and avoid handing over any money unless a legitimate fine is issued and a receipt is provided.
Handling bribe requests by police during your rides in Kenya requires tact and firmness. Politely decline any suggestions of informal payments and express your preference to handle all matters officially. If you feel pressured, suggest going to the nearest police station to resolve the issue formally. Carrying a phone number for legal assistance or your embassy can also provide an additional layer of security. Always prioritize your safety and seek to de-escalate any confrontations.
Police officers do often look for little stipends as opposed to worrying about catching the most severe traffic violators. Even with valid documents, it may be difficult to avoid paying a stipend. It is therefore best to avoid police officers altogether. This can be done by shunning traffic front lines at roundabouts and intersections. The CBD is full of traffic police, but in the neighbourhoods preferred by expats such as Kilimani, Lavington, and Westlands, traffic police is far less frequent to come by.
Theft is covered by the insurance. However, to avoid giving the insurance arguments about how it was careless behavior which led to the theft, we strongly recommend you park the motorcycle in guarded compounds. Avoid parking the motorcycle outside guarded facilities, especially in the dark/overnight.
Yes, wearing a helmet is mandatory in Kenya for all motorbike riders. Nevertheless, you will see a lot of local riders without a helmet since enforcement of this law can be inconsistent. It’s crucial for your safety to always wear a helmet, regardless of what others are doing, to protect yourself in the event of an accident.
Yes, driving on the left side of the road is mandatory in Kenya. All motorists, including those riding motorcycles, are required to adhere to this regulation. Visitors should take extra care to familiarize themselves with this aspect of road use to avoid confusion and ensure safe driving practices.

Advice

What travel advice do you offer for motorbike renters in Kenya?

When renting a motorbike in Kenya, it’s important to be well-prepared to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some essential tips:

  • Be aware of the road conditions, traffic patterns, and weather forecasts. Kenya offers a variety of landscapes, from bustling city streets to serene countryside roads, so choose routes that are suitable for your riding skill level.
  • Understand Local Traffic Laws: Familiarize yourself with the local traffic laws. In Kenya, you need to drive on the left side of the road. Be aware of unique traffic signs and local driving customs to avoid fines and unsafe situations.
  • Wear Proper Gear: Safety gear is crucial. Always wear a helmet, which is mandatory in Kenya, along with other protective gear such as gloves, boots, and a motorcycle jacket. This equipment can protect you from serious injuries in case of an accident.
  • Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: The Kenyan climate can be hot and dry, especially if you are traveling during the day. Stay hydrated and take regular breaks to rest and refresh yourself.
  • Keep Documents Handy: Always carry your driving license, rental documents, and identification with you. These documents are essential, especially at checkpoints or in case of any legal issues on the road.
  • Be Cautious of Wildlife and Livestock: When riding in rural areas or near national parks, be cautious of wildlife and livestock that may unexpectedly cross the roads.
  • Avoid Night Riding: Try to avoid riding at night, as visibility is reduced and you are more likely to encounter hazards such as potholes and unlit vehicles.
  • Secure Parking: Always park your motorcycle in a secure, well-lit area to prevent theft. Using guarded parking facilities is highly recommended.
  • Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including the rental company’s hotline, local emergency services, and your embassy if you are a foreign national.