Meet Sterling: The Mist-Walker of the Interior
Model: Honda CB400X (Matte Grey)
If you want a bike that feels like a natural extension of yourself—nimble enough for a tight alleyway but sturdy enough for a cross-island epic—meet Sterling. While the liter-bikes are fighting for traction and the heavy cruisers are wide-turning, Sterling is slicing through the heart of Shikoku with effortless poise. He is the ultimate "real-world" adventurer.
The King of the "Rindo" (Forest Roads)
Japan is covered in Rindo—winding, narrow, often mossy forest roads that lead to hidden shrines and forgotten villages.
The Sterling Experience: This is where Sterling leaves the big bikes behind. Because he is a 400cc machine, he has a light "flickability" that makes the 48 hairpins of a mountain pass feel like a playground. He doesn't intimidate; he encourages you to explore that one narrow turn-off just to see where it leads.
Conquering the "UFO Line"
The UFO Line (Kamegamori) is one of the most famous "sky roads" in Japan, running along a 1,700-meter ridgeline.
The Sterling Experience: On this high-altitude, single-lane road, you don't want a heavy beast; you want Sterling. His smooth, parallel-twin engine provides a steady, predictable climb. As the clouds wrap around the peaks, Sterling’s grey silhouette blends into the mist, making you feel like a true ghost in the mountains.
Bridge-Hopping the Shimanto River
In the remote west of Shikoku, the Shimanto River is famous for its Chinkabashi (submersible bridges)—narrow, concrete crossings with no railings, designed to let floodwaters flow over them.
The Sterling Experience: Crossing a bridge with no rails requires a steady hand and a balanced bike. Sterling’s upright riding position and low-speed stability make these legendary crossings a breeze. You’re high enough to see the "last clear stream of Japan" below you, but grounded enough to feel totally secure.
The Urban Explorer: Kurashiki & Bizen
Before you hit the mountains, you’ll likely find yourself in the historic merchant districts of Okayama.
The Sterling Experience: Sterling is narrow and quiet. He can navigate the 400-year-old canal-side streets of Kurashiki without disturbing the peace. He’s the perfect size to park near a tiny ceramic shop in Bizen to pick up some local pottery before heading back into the hills.
Why Choose Sterling?
Sterling is for the authentic traveler. He is for the rider who knows that in Japan’s tight mountains, "less is often more." He is incredibly fuel-efficient, famously reliable, and has just enough "adventure" in his DNA to handle a gravel trailhead. He is the quiet professional who ensures your focus stays on the beauty of the landscape, not the weight of the machine.
The mountain mist is calling, and Sterling is ready to disappear into the green. Are you coming?
Please check detailed rental requirements below.
| Daily |
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| Same Day + Store Access |
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| Multi Day Rental |
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| Insurance Coverage |
Your rental includes the legally required Japanese insurance coverage:
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| Excess & Liability |
ERI Eligibility:
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| Mileage Policy |
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| Tax |
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| Who We Are |
At Motorcycle Rental Japan, we are English speakers and owners. Our goal is to ensure total customer satisfaction in a safe, English-speaking environment so you are 100% informed, confident, and understand every detail of your rental. |
| Check-In & Setup |
Upon arrival at our shop, you will be greeted by our staff to finalize your booking details and complete the rental contract. To get you on the road quickly and safely, we will:
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| Departure Prep |
We are happy to answer any questions about the terms, the motorcycle, or provide route recommendations. Before setting off, you will receive and confirm our emergency contact numbers. Timeframe: This process can take as little as 10 minutes. However, if you need gear fitting, adjustments, or detailed route guidance, it may take longer. We want to get you on your adventure as fast as possible, so please plan accordingly. |
| The Return |
We love hearing about your adventure! After a quick final inspection, if everything is in order, you are free to go.
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| Luggage |
Our motorcycles come fitted with luggage as shown in the photos. If you do not see luggage attached in the motorcycle photos, please ask us for options. *Note: Some smaller or off-road models have limited luggage capacity.* |
| Navigation & Power |
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| ETC & Highway |
The motorcycle is equipped with an ETC Machine for highway travel in Japan. Important: ETC Card rental is not available from this store location. You can pay highway tolls via Credit Card or Cash at the toll gates. |
| Safety & Support |
Includes a security lock, emergency puncture repair kit with pump, and contact numbers for 24-hour emergency support. |
| Storage & Fuel |
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| Restrictions |
Please Note: To protect the vehicle condition, we do not allow tank bags or third-party soft luggage to be fitted to the motorcycles. |
| License & ID |
You must present a valid Japanese Driver’s License with a Valid International Driving Permit (IDP). Please see HERE for full license requirements. Required Documents: We will need to take copies of your Credit Card and your Passport (or Resident Card) upon arrival. |
| Riding Experience |
Riders must have more than one year of riding experience on a motorcycle of similar size/weight to the one you intend to rent. |
| Age Requirement |
Riders must be 20 years of age or older. |
| Policies |
Please refer to our Terms & Conditions for a detailed list of our rental requirements and policies. |
| Trip Planning |
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| Destination Info |
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