Uber launches motorcycle ride service in Thailand

Using a scooter or motorcycle to get around is one of the most popular modes of transport in Asian cities, and now the Bangkok branch of Uber has decided to add the two-wheeled vehicle to its list of options.

Called UberMOTO, the service is the first of its kind for Uber in any city and allows Uber users to hitch a ride on the back of an Uber-associated motorcycle or scooter. 

The drivers will be vetted by Uber, passengers will be provided helmets when the motorcycle arrives to pick them up and trips can be paid for via credit card or with cash.

The dynamic might sound odd to those living in the west, but hopping onto the back of a scooter or motorcycle is particularly popular in Thailand.

Credit: NICOLAS ASFOURI, AFP, Getty Images

Thailand has the highest percentage (87%) of households that own a motorcycle or scooter compared to all other countries worldwide. The next five highest use scooter/motorcycle households after Thailand are all countries in Asia, according to a 2015 Pew Research study.

Thailand has the highest percentage (87%) of households that own a motorcycle or scooter

For comparison, the study claims that just 14% of U.S. households own a scooter or motorcycle, so we probably shouldn't expect UberMOTO to pop up in the U.S. anytime soon. 

However, one issue that may shadow the service is the matter of helmets -- many riders in Thailand don't wear them, despite the fact that Bangkok traffic laws mandate their use. Therefore, it's possible that some customers might attempt to forgo the use of helmets, even when they're offered by the drivers. 

So, in a bid to encourage helmet usage in general, Uber is partnering with the Thai Traffic Police and Head Awareness Club (HAC) to increase awareness around the helmet issue and issue free helmets to young students and adults in the local community. 

The pilot program is set to launch in the Sathorn, Siam and Silom areas of Bangkok and first-time users will get their first ride free of charge. 

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