Do I need to have a motorcycle license?
Not necessarily. First Rides are open to everyone. If you have a driving licence (eg for a car) you can ride any of our custom bikes on lessons and trips, or rent a bike under 350cc. You’ll need a proper motorcycle license to rent a bike over 350cc. If you’re stupid enough to ride with no licence at all, you can rent a bike locally or buy a bike at your own risk - we believe a trained/observed new rider is better than an untrained one let loose.

What about the political situation in Nepal?
In our opinion, it’s the perfect time to come. Years of internal struggle came to a head in 2006 with the “jana andolan” or “popular uprising”. Images of rioting, military curfews and Maoist rebels made the international news, and tourism suffered badly. Tourists were never really at risk, but foreign embassies covered their arses and issued travel warnings. We are glad and proud we stayed. A brutal and deeply unpopular King (propped up by, you guessed it, the USA) has now been stripped of his powers, a historic peace deal has been signed, and a new democracy is forming. Tourism is incredibly important for Nepal’s impoverished economy, and the overwhelming majority of visitors here rate it amongst the most welcoming, beautiful countries on the planet. Buy a ticket!

Can I reserve my favourite bike?
Usually, yes. Tell us your preference when you confirm your booking and we’ll do our best to reserve it for you.  If for any reason we can’t deliver, we’ll find a decent alternative or give you your money back.

Can I bring a passenger? Sure, and we give discounts for passengers. Most of our bikes are single-seat, but let us know in advance and we’ll fit a pillion seat. Depending on the trip, instructors can also take a passenger. Alternatively, your partner could learn to ride with us in just a couple of days!

Why are your prices much lower than other bike tour operators?
Our business is run up to a standard, not down to a price. But we live in Nepal, so our costs are lower. It’s also more about enjoying life and motorcycles than making big money. Other operators are based abroad; they make foreign currency wages and profits, and pay higher costs. Simple business economics.

So this isn’t a typical all-inclusive package holiday deal?
No; our customers aren’t stupid, and we don’t treat them like idiots. We find that people prefer to make their own plans for spending their valuable time and money, and don’t like to have a fixed schedule imposed on them.
We’ve also seen damage to Nepal’s small businesses from foreign-booked, all-in packages. Flights to Kathmandu are easy, and Pokhara is only a quick flight away or half a day by road. Tourists are well catered for in Nepal: there’s plenty of hotels, and most activities (trekking, rafting, paragliding, etc etc) can be booked quickly and easily. So we offer great value motorcycle adventures, not package holidays.

Is biking dangerous?
Potentially, yes. You must understand the risks and ride carefully. The throttle turns both ways. We’ll provide you with safety equipment, but there’s no guarantee.

What equipment should I bring?
We provide helmets, jackets and gloves. Most customers are happy riding in our kit with strong walking boots and jeans. However, if you feel safer in your own bike gear, please feel free to bring it to Nepal (and maybe leave it here if it’s no longer needed!)

What about health risks and medical insurance?
You should take medical advice about travel to Nepal from your doctor. Just for interest, we eat the local food (it’s fresh, healthy and delicious) and drink bottled water. You must pay for any medical treatment needed – for you or anyone you injure. You should have medical insurance, but carry cash to speed up treatment. Nepal is a developing country, so medical facilities are scarce and of variable quality, but there are pharmacies everywhere for common ailments.

Can I get my knee down?
Probably not. Our bikes have Indian tyres, drum brakes and 1950’s suspension technology. If you’re looking for sticky Michelin rubber, Brembo brakes and Öhlins suspension you’ve clicked on the wrong website!

What’s the plan for breakdowns?
We try to fix problems on the road, but cannot make any guarantees. We carry inner tubes, common spares and basic tools. If the problem is more serious, we will store the bike or send it back to Pokhara by truck. We will try to arrange an alternative bike to complete the trip. These are classic bikes in a developing country, so you must be reasonable and flexible if things go wrong.