Bali's no. 1 Travel Guide
Renting a Two-Wheeler in Bali
Driving a scooter on your own is simply the best way to get around. If you want to go to the beach, do some shopping, visit some restaurants etc., then a scooter does make things very easy and convenient. You can skip (most) traffic jams and make use of the small “gangs” (narrow roads and pathways), and shortcuts. Parking is easy.
Often, distances are a bit too much to get from your hotel to other restaurants, shops, etc for walking. Sidewalks are often not perfect (or non-existent). And during the day, it can be simply too hot for a 15min walk.
Please do us all a favour
DON'T RENT A LOUD BIKE
It's disrespectful to the Balinese and an unnecessary noise pollution
What does it cost to rent a scooter or motorbike in Bali?
Rental Prices
Two-wheelers are very affordable and the prices range from 5USD to 20USD for 24h, depending on the general conditions, age, model, and the number of days you are renting. Weekly rates are usually cheaper. The better the bikes and the better the service the higher the prices.
Prices are usually without any insurance coverage and if you have an accident you will have to cover all related repair costs, unless you choose a more professional rental that does offer the inurance.
There is no fee for milage, and usually you get the scooter with a full tank and have to return it the same way.
Scooter Rental Prices & Online Booking with Insurance Options by BIKAGO
What type of scooters and motorbikes are available to rent in Bali?
The Types
A scooter is a motorbike is a scooter. Anything on two wheels with an engine will be called scooter or motorbike without a real clear definition. The Iocals call it a “Sepeda Motor” or simply “Motor“.
Usually, when you rent one, you will get a Japanese (Honda, Yamaha) make with 125-150cc (Scoopy, Vario). There are some dirt bikes available, which are mostly a nuisance because of the loud exhausts, and the more comfortable scooters are LEXI, N-MAX or X-MAX.
The bikes are usually automatic, so you don’t need to bother with the gears. They are really easy to drive and can go even up to 100km/h – very quickly; however we suggest not to go so fast in Bali – ever!
Favorite Models
Where can I Rent a Scooter or Motorbike in Bali?
The Rental Places
Wherever you stay in Bali, a rental shop is never far away. And while walking around your area, you will usually be approached many times, whether you wish to rent a “motor bike” (or a massage, or transport, or or or).
The helmet(s) are usually included, but this means also that the conditions of the helmet are often, let’s say, “not so good”, nor very hygienic. You can buy a new helmet for USD10-20 in one of the helmet shops, which is a good investment. Or, you rent from more professional rentals that handout clean helmets.
We always suggest: choose your rental partner wisely. If the bikes are too cheap, if the place looks shady or the people feel to you not trustworthy…then move on. No need to take a risk.
There are some scammers in Bali like anywhere else in the world, and some rental guys might jump on the opportunity to take advantage of you, particularly when accidents happen or other unpleasant situations occur.
The best rental company these days in Bali, with the best bike, 24h support line and with the option the get insurance is BIKAGO. You can rent your bike already online before you arrive and they will deliver it to the airport or your hotel. BIKAGO
Must Know when renting a scooter or motorbike
- Drive according to your skill-level.
- If you have never driven a motorboke or scooter, Bali is not the best place to start.
- Always wear your helmet.
- Always turn on your headlights when riding a scooter in Bali. Even during the day, the main scooter lamp must be switched on (it’s a rule by the Indonesian Traffic Police).
- Always indicate change lanes or take a turn, even if others don’t
- You need an international driving license which you have to apply for in your home country usually or you can get one online here if you forgot it and get a printed booklet delivered fo your accommodation in Bali. They are only valid together with your national driving license, so you need to bring both along in case the police stops you.
- Gas stations are run by the state company Pertamina. All over Bali you can find small gas stations in front of shops (Pertamini) or even little shacks, selling fuel (bensin) in 1lt Vodka bottles (ca IDR15,000 to 20,000 per litre)
- Check the air pressure of your tire and the profile before you rent. You need a good grip!
- If the air pressure reduces over time, immediately go to the nearest gas station or to a repair shop (Bengkel). You can say “Tambah Angin” to ask the stall keeper inflating the air to your tire. You can say “Ban Depan” if you want only front tire to be inflated, “Ban Belakang” if you wish the back tire to be inflated, or “Depan Belakang” to make sure both of your tires work well. You will need to pay around Rp. 5.000
- Safety Safety Safety. Too many accidents happen, because tourists drive recklessly, drunk or simply overestimate their skills. No need to drive faster than 30-40km/h on most roads. Traffic Safety in Bali
- Don’t give the rental guys your passport or your credit card as collateral. Your address in the hotel should be enough, or a passport copy.
- Accidents happen, and medical cost in Bali for wound treatments (stitching, cleansing and debridement) need to be paid cash. There are 24h medical emergency services in the main tourism areas. Make sure you have a Medical Travel Insurance
- if you have an accident, you usually need to pay for the damages that you caused unless you signed up for an insurance with the rental guys.
Adapting to the Traffic in Bali – Driving a Scooter Safely
You need to be careful and alert, and know a few things that keep you safe. We gathered a few tips for you that should help you to avoid getting you into trouble.
