13 Most Important Tips for Riding a Scooter in Bali Safely

Riding a scooter in Bali is an integral part of daily life. Here are some essential tips to ensure your scooter ride is safe and enjoyable.

1. Left-Hand Traffic Bali follows left-hand traffic rules. If you\'re accustomed to right-hand traffic, you\'ll need to adjust your mindset to drive on the left. Stay highly focused on the road.

2. Local Traffic "Code" Traffic in Bali is governed by an informal "code" rather than strict rules. The flow can appear chaotic, with locals making sudden turns or U-turns without warning.

   • Expect the Unexpected: Locals may pull out onto the road without looking or letting others pass. Be prepared for sudden movements from other drivers.
   • "Feel" the Traffic: Forget the formal traffic rules you know and try to sense the local driving patterns. Anticipate other drivers\' actions, especially when turning onto main roads.
   • Eye Contact: At intersections, make eye contact with other drivers to gauge their intentions and see if they will yield to you.

   Tip: Before starting to ride, spend some time at a roadside café to observe the traffic flow and understand these unwritten rules. Alternatively, ride as a passenger with an experienced friend for a couple of days to get a feel for it.
   

3. Fines Do Exist

   You might wonder, "They have no rules, but there are fines?" Yes, there are official rules and fines for violations in Bali. Here are some key violations that can result in fines:

   • Driving without an International Driving License: For a motorbike, you need an "A" category license; for a car, a "B" category license.
   • Riding without a Helmet: Always wear a helmet when riding a bike.
   • Exceeding Passenger Limits: Having more than two people on a bike is not allowed.
   • Ignoring Traffic Lights: Do not drive past the stop line at a traffic light.

4. Local Drivers Use Sound Signals, Not Because You Interfere

Locals in Bali frequently use sound signals, often very actively. These signals are not meant to indicate that you are disturbing them. Generally, drivers use their horn to indicate maneuvers, such as when they want to overtake, warn a pedestrian on the side of the road, or alert a driver entering the main road.

5. Do Not Use Phones While Riding a Bike

Many people ask about mobile phone holders for scooters, but we do not rent them out and advise against using them. There have been instances where phones are snatched. Additionally, avoid holding your phone while riding. If you need to use a navigation app, it’s better to use headphones and keep your phone in a secure pocket, one that is difficult to reach easily.

6. Be Careful in the Evening and at Night

We advise girls not to ride alone after dark. If you must go out, wear more closed clothing, such as a windbreaker and a long skirt or sarong. Stick to well-lit and busy streets.

Always keep your belongings in the trunk, especially at night. Do not wear bags over your shoulder or head, and it\'s best to store backpacks in the trunk as well.

7. Take Motorbike Lessons if You Lack Experience

If you have no experience riding motorbikes, we suggest renting a car instead. It\'s easier and safer for those who are familiar with driving a car but not a motorbike.

However, if you are determined to ride a motorbike, we highly recommend taking lessons with an experienced instructor. Riding a motorbike, especially in Bali, requires specific skills. An instructor will teach you how to ride confidently and safely, providing valuable tips and answering all your questions. Don\'t skimp on this—your health and safety are paramount.

For your first rides, wear thick clothing (trousers and a long-sleeved top) and proper shoes—avoid flip-flops! Don\'t take passengers until you have significant riding experience.

Regardless of your skill level, make sure you have medical insurance.

8. Keep Your Bike in Good Condition

Regularly check the condition of your motorbike. Ensure the tires are properly inflated and the brakes are functioning well. At the first sign of any issues, contact a service center or your rental provider.

Always refuel at official gas stations. Gasoline from roadside bottles is often poor quality or diluted, which could leave you stranded.

9. Wear Closed Clothing for Long Trips

When embarking on long trips, we strongly recommend wearing long-sleeved sweatshirts, gloves, and pants to avoid sunburn. The sun in Bali can be very strong, and spending hours on a bike can lead to severe burns if you don\'t take precautions. Additionally, riding in shorts and a T-shirt can result in an uneven tan that can take a long time to even out.

10. Avoid Unfamiliar Roads at Night

Do not drive on unfamiliar roads at night or in poor visibility conditions, such as rain. You might miss important signs indicating sharp turns, potholes, or gravel patches. Many roads in Bali are not well-maintained, and puddles can hide serious potholes that can be problematic for bikes.

11. Carry a Basic First Aid Kit

Always keep a minimal first aid kit in your bike\'s trunk. Include items like hydrogen peroxide or rivanol, bandages, adhesive tape, and antiseptic powder (such as nebacetin or baneocin). Also, carry a printed copy of your insurance policy.