Vietnam's Bikelihood

Have you heard of the word 'bikelihood' before? If you have come to Vietnam, or other countries whose people ride motorbikes as their main means of transportation, you might understand. You would be amazed by what can be loaded on these small bikes, and how the riders can weave perfectly fine through any corners of Vietnam streets.

Vietnamese Motorbikes and Bicycles

The motorbike types in Vietnam are usually classified into three categories: xe so (a manual transmission motorbike), xe tay ga (auto-transmission motorbike), and xe phan khoi lon (large engine motorbike). You can easily find these three types in the streets, especially in major cities, but manual transmission motorbike is the most common due to their affordable price and slender design, suitable for Vietnam streets and alleys, which are usually small and narrow.

The bicycle is another everyday transportation. It is used because of its slim frame, lightweight, low price, and cost-saving on fuel and maintenance.

 

Read more on The Different Types of Transportation in Vietnamese.

Vietnam's Bikelihood

It is those small manual transmission motorbikes and bicycles that are loaded with stuff and the amount you wouldn’t think it would be possible. The things are carefully and skillfully tied to the backseat and incidentally create such a beautiful and symmetrical structure.

 

What Vietnamese load on their motorbike:

People

 

Pets

 

Produces

 

 

Goods

 

Vendors on-the-go

 

And anything, you name it

 

Broomsticks and Snacks

 

Gas tanks and Engines

 

Refridgerator and Plants

These are familiar sights in Vietnam streets. Traveling around many places in Vietnam, especially on a motorbike, you will get the chance to witness much more of the local daily life and how they are making their living.

Read more on 50 Fun Facts about Vietnam.

 

Have you ever seen these bikelihoods on your trip to Vietnam? Tell us what you think is interesting about Vietnam.

If you plan to get on the Vietnam streets and experience the local life yourself, read our 5 Riding Tips for First-time Passengers or Can Tourists Drive in Vietnam?

You may also want to check out our Saigon Motorbike Tour.