How Old Do You Have to Be to Join an Explore Indochina Motorcycle Tour?

Older Riders and Younger Riders

Riders must be at least eighteen years old, while the upper age limit can extend well beyond 70 or even 80 years old, depending on the individual’s physical condition and mental attitude.
Older motorcycle riders often bring a wealth of experience to our motorcycle tours, making them some of the safest participants. Having spent years on the road and in motorcycle clubs, they tend to be more cautious, aware of the risks, and better able to handle unexpected situations. These riders are typically more focused on comfortable riding and enjoying the journey rather than racing from point to point, leading to a slower, more relaxed pace. Their maturity, good knowledge, and understanding of road safety make them excellent role models for younger riders who may not yet fully grasp the dangers that come with motorcycling.
In contrast, younger riders, while often possessing quicker reaction times and more stamina, sometimes fall into the trap of overconfidence. They are more likely to ride at higher speeds, underestimating the risks and failing to recognise how quickly road conditions can change. It’s common for younger motorcyclists to prioritise thrill-seeking over safety, which can lead to dangerous situations. Explore Indochina motorcycle tours help to mitigate these risks by providing a structured environment, with experienced guides setting safe speeds and offering advice to all participants, regardless of age.

Physical Fitness and Mental Attitude Over Age

Explore Indochina riders enjoying verdant steppes near Lake Khovsgol on his Mongolia motorcycle tour
Age is not a barrier to riding on an Explore Indochina motorcycle tour. The more important factors are a person’s physical fitness and their mental attitude. Our tours get the most out of each day with little padding or fluff. They can involve up to eight hours of riding on rugged terrain, which can be exhausting even for younger riders. A reasonable level of fitness is essential to handle the tour’s physical demands, from maintaining balance and posture on the motorbike to handling the heat or cold, depending on the environment. Riders should be honest with themselves about their physical capabilities before signing up for the more arduous tours like the Ho Chi Minh Trail.

The Role of a Flexible Mindset Right Mental Attitude

Local men and their motorcycles in Mongolia
Mental attitude is arguably more important than physical fitness. Explore Indochina motorcycle tours are all in less developed countries, which require a flexible and adaptable mindset. Riders who can go with the flow, remain calm during delays or mishaps, and maintain a positive attitude when things go wrong are much more likely to enjoy the experience. A carefree approach, rather than one rigidly focused on strict plans and expectations, makes it easier to embrace the surprises and challenges that come with motorcycle touring.
For older riders, maintaining this positive mental attitude is key to enjoying the ride. Some may have concerns about their age, but as long as they are in good health and keep an open mind, age is not a barrier to joining one of our tours. Many older riders find the adventure invigorating, allowing them to continue exploring the world at their own pace. Their patience and understanding of how plans can change on the road make them well-suited for the unpredictable nature of motorcycle touring.
Tour participants who expect everything to run perfectly may struggle with the inevitable hiccups that come with long-distance travel, especially in less developed regions. For them, learning to accept the unexpected and appreciate the experience as a whole—rather than focusing on minor setbacks—is crucial for getting the most out of the tour.

Embracing Cultural Differences During Your Motorbike Tour

Endless plains on the way to White Lake in Mongolia
Flexibility becomes even more essential in less developed countries, where food and accommodation standards may not meet the expectations of riders from more modernised regions. Explore Indochina motorcycle tours take tour participants off the beaten path, where local cuisine and lodging may differ significantly from what they are used to. Riders who can embrace these differences rather than view them as inconveniences will have a much more fulfilling experience. A rigid mindset can lead to frustration, while an adventurous spirit opens up the possibility of discovering new and exciting aspects of local cultures.

Physical Challenges of the Journey

Riding the Zanskar Valley
Physical challenges, such as navigating rough terrain or coping with long rides, are easier to manage when a rider’s mental attitude is relaxed and open. Those who remain calm when facing difficult situations, such as a sudden change in weather or a mechanical issue, tend to find solutions more easily and enjoy the ride despite the obstacles.

Structured Safety for All Ages on the Tour

Riding above Lamayuru while enjoying a motorcycle tour of the Himalayas in India
Motorbike tours are structured to benefit riders of all ages. Guided Explore Indochina tours provide support that makes the riding experience safer and more enjoyable for everyone. Our experienced tour guides manage the group’s riding pace, keeping speeds safe and ensuring riders stick to appropriate routes. This structure allows younger and older riders to focus on enjoying the scenery and the ride without the pressure of navigating or worrying about getting lost. Our routes are always flexible because there are often multiple ways of getting from A to B. Our tour guides often change the route on the fly depending on how well or not the group is coping with the day’s ride.
Picture of Digby Greenhalgh

By Digby Greenhalgh

Digby Greenhalgh is the founder of Explore Indochina, and a recognized expert on the Ho Chi Minh Trail. All motorcycle tours are designed and guided by Digby.

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