Planning a trip to Bali? You’re making a great choice! This beautiful Indonesian island offers a wealth of attractions to explore, and many travelers opt to rent a scooter during their stay. However, before you hop on a scooter and hit the roads of Bali, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Are you insured while riding a scooter? Do you need a motorcycle license, or will an international driver’s license suffice? In this article, I will answer these questions and more so that you can make an informed decision when considering renting a scooter for your Bali vacation.
Renting a scooter in Bali is a popular choice among visitors due to its convenience and the freedom it provides. With a scooter, you have the flexibility to explore the island at your own pace, and it’s also an affordable mode of transportation. Renting a scooter typically costs a few euros per day, and fuel expenses are relatively low. Having your own transportation on Bali is highly advantageous, and renting a scooter is often the most practical option. However, it’s crucial not to jump onto a scooter without considering some important factors.
Most rental companies in Bali offer various rental durations, from a single day to a month or more. Typically, the longer you rent, the more cost-effective it becomes. When negotiating a rental price, don’t be quick to accept the initial offer. The standard rate for renting a scooter in Bali ranges from 60,000 to 110,000 Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) per day and usually includes a helmet. Always wear a helmet while riding, as this is not only a legal requirement but also essential for your safety. This rule applies to any passengers as well.
Failure to wear a helmet can result in a significant fine. Additionally, for safety reasons, wearing a helmet is highly recommended. As for fuel costs, you’ll find that gasoline is also quite affordable in Bali. You can typically purchase fuel from roadside vendors for around 7,000 IDR per liter, which is similar to the prices at gas stations.
In well-known places like Ubud, Canggu, and Kuta, you’ll find numerous private rental companies offering scooters for hire. Even in less touristy villages, you’ll likely encounter locals willing to rent you a “motorbike.” If you plan to rent a scooter in Bali, it’s advisable to thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any defects and take it for a test ride to ensure the brakes are working properly. Another option is to rent a scooter through a reputable organization like Bali Bike Rental. While this might be slightly more expensive, you can have confidence in the reliability of the rental provider. Many accommodations in Bali also offer scooter rental services, but it’s essential to conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle in such cases as well.
Never leave your passport with a rental company. If a rental agency insists on holding your passport, consider seeking an alternative provider. Usually, a copy of your passport with your name and the details of your Bali hotel is sufficient.
Technically, the vehicles rented in Bali are motorcycles due to their higher engine capacity, typically around 80cc or more. Therefore, you would need both a motorcycle license and an international driver’s license to legally operate them. However, even if you don’t possess a motorcycle license, you can still rent a scooter. Keep in mind that in the event of an accident and resulting injuries, you won’t be covered by insurance.
Many scooters in Bali have an engine capacity of at least 80cc. You would need an official motorcycle license for vehicles with engine capacities exceeding 50cc, and the same applies in Indonesia. According to the law, you are riding a motorcycle rather than a scooter. Without a motorcycle license, you are not legally insured. Often, rental agencies offer the option to purchase local insurance, but even with this coverage, you may not be fully protected in all situations. Therefore, carefully read the rental agreement and pay close attention to the fine print before considering such insurance.
If you possess both a motorcycle license and an international motorcycle license, you may have some level of coverage for damage to the rental vehicle. However, the extent of coverage can vary between insurance providers. To be sure, it’s best to check with your insurance company directly. Keep in mind that as a foreigner, you may be at a disadvantage and considered at fault in the event of an accident. This means that if you cause property or bodily damage to another party, you may be required to compensate them.
Additionally, Bali’s traffic can be quite chaotic, and driving is on the left side of the road. Consider these factors carefully when deciding whether or not to rent a scooter. If you have no prior experience with scooter riding, I strongly advise against it. Prevention is always better than cure, and accidents can happen unexpectedly.
