From Quality Control in a Multinational to Entrepreneur in the Two-Wheel Rental Industry

The expat life comes with many perks — but what happens when you simply don’t want to leave the country you landed in? That’s the question Alec asked himself when he arrived in Ho Chi Minh City in 2011.

Originally from Tasmania, Alec always knew his life would unfold abroad. He started traveling as soon as he could: studying in Indonesia, holding senior roles in Bangladesh and then in China, before being sent by his company to Ho Chi Minh City to supervise a social compliance program for Primark’s factories in Vietnam. The job was interesting, the team kind — but before long, it became clear: he wasn’t here for just a few years. He wanted to stay.

So, like 21% of expats, he made a bold decision — he quit his comfortable position and stepped away from corporate expat life. His plan: start his own business. Passionate about motorbike travel and determined to succeed, he trained, he learned, and with the help of a specialized agency, he slowly built his own two-wheeler rental company: VietRide.

Now based in the heart of the expat neighborhood of Thảo Điền, Alec runs his business with two employees, including a dedicated mechanic. He offers long-term rentals, primarily to expats and occasionally to tourists. His positioning is clear: not the cheapest, but top-quality service at a fair price. In Vietnam, it’s easy to rent a scooter for next to nothing — but quality often suffers. Alec takes pride in offering the opposite: reliable, well-maintained vehicles. He knows every bike in his fleet — which includes 50cc, 110/125cc, and electric models — inside and out. He personally ensures meticulous upkeep, checking for the slightest sound or vibration. His approach isn’t random: his background as an expat has made him methodical and demanding — and that’s exactly what his clients appreciate.

One of VietRide’s biggest strengths is flexibility. Alec knows firsthand that paperwork can take time when settling in. He’s patient, accommodating, and most importantly — he’s present. If something goes wrong, he’s available. He finds solutions. He supports you. It’s this personal involvement that truly sets his service apart.

For travelers, he offers a smart service: thanks to a partner in Hanoi, it's possible to ride across the country by motorbike, from Saigon all the way to the north. Riders can drop off the bike in Hanoi, and Alec’s partner will return it to his shop in Thảo Điền — a small detail that makes a big difference for adventure seekers.

In terms of pricing, he positions himself mid-market:

• Between 1.5 and 2 million VND/month for a 50cc

• Up to 3 million VND/month for a 125cc

• Around 2.5 million VND/month for an electric bike

Alec carefully monitors market trends to adapt his fleet — especially the balance between 50cc petrol scooters and electric ones. He keeps a close eye on the law: Hanoi plans to ban gas-powered motorbikes from its city center next year, and Ho Chi Minh City could follow soon after. This could rapidly shift demand toward electric models. He’s preparing gradually, expanding his electric fleet — while staying realistic: few buildings allow charging, and some installations are still unsafe.

He’s also considering offering training sessions for beginners, though he prefers to leave official licensing to the professionals.

When it comes to business growth, Alec is clear: quality comes first. He’s not looking to scale at any cost. What he values most is the direct relationship with his clients, delivering a service he can control from start to finish, done right and done with care.

Alec gave up a stable job and a good salary — and he has no regrets. He’s gained freedom, a better personal balance, and the satisfaction of building something solid, aligned with his values.

And if you’re looking for a two-wheeler in Saigon, you can step into VietRide with complete confidence. You’ll be welcomed by someone who knows the job, loves this country, and will go above and beyond to make your journey as memorable as his own.

📍 40 Nguyễn Bá Huân, Thảo Điền, Thủ Đức, Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Viêt Nam

🕓 Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

🔗 https://vietride.vn/

📱 https://www.facebook.com/VIETRIDE