Renting a motorbike is one of the best ways to explore the beautiful island of Bali. The flexibility, freedom, and cost-effectiveness make motorbikes an extremely popular mode of transport for visitors. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about renting a motorbike in Bali.
Why Rent a Motorbike in Bali
Renting a motorbike allows you to explore Bali at your own pace. You can visit remote beaches, rice terraces, temples, and other attractions not easily accessible by other means. Motorbikes are also useful for navigating Bali’s infamous traffic jams.
Other benefits of renting a motorbike in Bali include:
- Flexibility to create your own itinerary and change plans spontaneously
- Cost-effective compared to hiring a car and driver
- Convenience of having transport readily available 24/7
- Ability to reach more remote areas not serviced by public transport
- Fun and adventurous way to explore the island
Legal Requirements for Renting a Motorbike in Bali
Foreigners renting a motorbike in Bali are legally required to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a temporary tourist motorcyclist’s license.
International Driving Permit
An IDP is essentially a translation of your current driver’s license. Over 150 countries recognize the IDP, including Indonesia. To get an IDP you must:
- Already have a full national driver’s license from your home country
- Apply through an authorized IDP issuing organization in your home country
The IDP is valid for 12 months and allows you to rent and drive any motorbike in Bali up to the cc listed on your national license.
Temporary Tourist Motorcyclist’s License
If you don’t have an IDP, you can obtain a temporary tourist motorcyclist’s license valid for 3 or 6 months in Bali. The process involves:
- Showing your passport and paying a fee of around 250,000-300,000 IDR
- Potentially a basic competency test
Without an IDP or temporary license, you risk fines, bike confiscation, license suspension, and even jail time if caught riding without proper documentation.
How to Rent a Motorbike in Bali
Where to Rent
Motorbikes can be rented all over Bali, but the most popular spots are tourist areas like:
Hotels can arrange rentals through their concierge. Small rental shops with signs saying “Motorbike Rental” are also ubiquitous.
Larger rental companies like Bali Bike Rental and Riderly offer more premium bikes and extra services.
Types of Motorbikes
Common motorbikes for rent in Bali include:
- Scooters (100-150cc): Honda Vario, Yamaha Mio, etc. Best for newer riders.
- Underbones (100-155cc): Honda Scoopy, Honda Spacy, etc. Slightly more powerful than scooters.
- Maxi-scooters (150-155cc): Yamaha NMax, Honda PCX. Comfortable for two people and highway travel.
- Dirt bikes (150-250cc): Small and manual for off-road adventures.
- Sports bikes (250cc+): Kawasaki Ninja, Yamaha R25. For experienced riders.
Costs
Costs to rent a motorbike in Bali depend on the model, rental period, and season:
- Older scooters rent for 50,000-100,000 IDR ($3-$7 USD) per day
- Newer scooters and underbones average 100,000-150,000 IDR ($7-$10 USD) per day
- Bigger maxi-scooters rent for 150,000-200,000 IDR ($10-$14 USD) per day
- Dirt bikes rent for 200,000-400,000 IDR ($14-$28 USD) per day
You can often negotiate prices, especially for longer rentals. Weekly and monthly rates are 30-50% cheaper than the daily rate.
A refundable deposit is also required, usually around 1,000,000 IDR ($70 USD).
Safety Considerations
Riding a motorbike in Bali can be dangerous for inexperienced riders. Safety precautions are essential.
Traffic and Road Safety
Driving in Bali can be treacherous for those unfamiliar with local road conditions. Specific dangers include:
- Aggressive driving: Many local drivers frequently ignore traffic laws. Expect other motorbikes to make sudden lane changes or dangerous passes. Always ride defensively.
- Unmarked obstacles: Potholes, speed bumps, loose gravel, and sand often blend into the roads with no warning. Ride slowly and scan ahead to spot hazards early.
- Animals and pedestrians: Dogs, chickens, and even cows have right of way in Bali. People often walk directly into traffic. Slow down and use caution in populated areas.
Wear a Helmet and Gear
Helmets are legally required and critical for preventing head injuries in crashes. Proper footwear, eye protection, and lightweight jackets also provide protection.
Drive Defensively
Be vigilant when riding as road rules are loosely followed in Bali. Expect other vehicles to swerve into your lane and watch out for potholes or debris.
Avoid driving at night when possible. Be extra cautious of trucks and buses that dominate the roads.
Don’t Drink and Ride
Indonesia has a 0.00% blood alcohol content limit for motorists. Penalties include large fines, license suspension, and jail time.
Get Travel Insurance
In case of accidents, comprehensive travel insurance will cover medical costs and evacuation expenses. Be sure to get policy documents translated into Bahasa.
Insurance for Motorbike Rentals
Motorbike rental insurance is not legally required in Bali but highly recommended. Most small rental companies don’t offer insurance. Larger operators like Bali BikeHouse include basic coverage.
Third-party coverage through rental companies generally includes:
- Damage to the motorbike
- Theft of the motorbike
- Legal/admin fees
Understanding exactly what your rental insurance does and does not cover is crucial. For example:
- Damage from crashing into a ditch will likely be covered.
- Damage from general wear and tear or improper maintenance would not be covered.
- Theft of a helmet or bag left unattended on the bike would not be covered.
- Injuries to a pedestrian hit by your rented bike would not be included. You would be personally liable for associated costs.
Carefully review all exclusions, limits, deductibles, and claim procedures for your rental insurance policy. Ask questions if terms are unclear.
As an extra precaution, take photos showing the undamaged bike when picking it up. Review scratches and dents with staff and note everything on the rental agreement. This will help avoid unfair damage claims when returning the bike.
What to Do After a Motorbike Accident
If you are unlucky enough to be in a motorbike accident in Bali, follow these steps:
- Ensure everyone involved receives medical assistance if required. Call emergency services if needed.
- Notify the rental company immediately. Provide details on what happened, the damage incurred, and if police were involved.
- File a police report if the accident involves severe injuries or vehicle damage. Minor incidents can usually be resolved on the spot by paying out-of-pocket repair costs.
- Contact your travel insurer to begin your claim if relevant. Provide documentation from medical facilities, repair shops, and police.
- Extend your rental period if the bike needs extensive repairs. You can’t return an unusable bike without paying the daily rate. Make arrangements with the rental company on next steps.
Alternatives to Renting a Motorbike
Other transport options in Bali have pros and cons to weigh:
Ride hailing:
- Pros: Convenient pickup/drop-off. No parking or driving worries.
- Cons: Less flexibility. Difficult in remote areas.
Private car charters:
- Pros: Customizable sightseeing. No traffic concerns.
- Cons: More expensive. Fixed itineraries.
Guided day tours:
- Pros: Expert local guidance. Group discounts.
- Cons: Rigid schedule. Large groups.
Public transport:
- Pros: Cheaper rates. Shared local experiences.
- Cons: Fixed routes. Crowded unreliable.
Consider your budget, priorities, travel style and companions when deciding on transportation in Bali.
Conclusion
Renting a motorbike opens up Bali’s beauty for self-guided adventures. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure you rent safely with proper licenses, documentation, gear, and insurance. Respect Balinese road rules, drive defensively, and take precautions. Avoid riding at night or after drinking alcohol. While accidents can happen, take sensible safety measures to ensure an incident-free Bali motorbike rental experience.