This for sure is the cheapest and most common mean of transport in Indonesia. Moreover motorbikes, Scooters are so common you will even see small kids, driving them. I have to admit. This is still by far one of the best way to travel and to discover Indonesia. Costs are much lower comparing to taxi . With motorbikes you can enjoy a bit more freedom and drive to all those amazing places, which sometimes might not be accessible by car or bus tours.

PRICES

Average asking price is 60-80 thousands IDR ( 4-5 $ ) or higher if taken straight from hotel or in busy locations.

Negotiatie your price well and you can go down to 40-50 thousands. Petrol cost about 6 – 7 thousands IDR per liter on petrol stations. Lots of shops or next door rental places sell petrol in bottles, which might be a great solution in case you are out of juice.. Just you might be charged a bit more.

WHERE SHOULD I RENT A MOTORBIKE ?

Nearest place you can get to the place you stay, there is not that much difference in prices. But there is a big difference in motorbikes and safety! While choosing a bike you can and you even should ask locals for a good place. Do not be afraid to ask in hotels, restaurants or even shops. People drive motorbikes daily. Some of them were at least once forced to look up for rental, while they had problem with their motorbike.

Make sure the helmets are included, and fit you well.

Be Safe. Take Photos of the Bike before you go! To avoid any unpleasent surprises.

WHAT BIKE SHOULD I TAKE ?

If you are not planning to leave the bike for the night on the street or leaving it for longer. You can try to get the nice and fancy bikes. Just make sure you can drive it as you might be charged a lot for any damage. I find Yamaha as very reliable brand and by far never had problems. If you will be given a choice, rather than choosing a color, check the sits, millage or km done, and condition of the gas hand. As this will tell you how much the bike was driven and how much torque it can have.

Oh and as one of the hotel staff told me. If you are planning to pick up some local girls, you should have a good looking bike or a nice MOTOR! Well, might be a good advise for someone. 😉

PARKING

Although it does not seems to be an issue, what you can expect is that people squeeze bikes next to each other. Even if it seems there is no space, someone will push one more bike there. Or will repark your Machine to fit one more. For sure you should take a photo of your Motor before you rent it. This can be also a nice proof the damage done to bike or any scratches that were not done by you.

HAVING AN INSURANCE

Hotels and professional rental companies will offer you an option to have extra insurance in case of damage. However I find, having a personal insurance, which can cover this type of issues is a much better choice.