Safety Guidelines
Essential safety information for motorcycle rental in Bali. Your safety is our priority.
Last updated: January 3, 2025
Quick Navigation
Emergency Contact
Your Safety Comes First
Comprehensive safety guidelines for a secure and enjoyable riding experience in Bali
Important Safety Notice
Riding a motorcycle in Bali requires extra caution and awareness. Read these guidelines carefully before riding.
Different Traffic Patterns
Traffic flows, road conditions, and driving customs may be very different from your home country.
Study All Guidelines
Please read these safety guidelines carefully and follow all recommendations.
Extra Caution Required
Heightened awareness and defensive driving are essential for safe riding in Bali.
Safety First Priority
Your safety and that of others on the road is the absolute top priority.
Bali Traffic Rules
Essential traffic rules and driving customs in Bali
Basic Traffic Rules
Mandatory Requirements
Drive on the LEFT side
Opposite to USA/Europe
International Driving Permit
MANDATORY for foreigners - strictly enforced
Helmet Required
Driver and passenger (Indonesian standard)
Speed Limits
40-50 km/h cities • 60-80 km/h rural • 100 km/h highways
No Mobile Phone Use
Hands-free only while riding
Maximum 2 People
Per motorcycle (no exceptions)
Local Driving Culture
Traffic follows “Local Code”
Informal rules guide flow more than strict regulations
Expect Heavy Traffic
Rush hours: 7-9 AM, 5-7 PM
Horn Usage is Communication
Warns of overtaking, lane changes - not aggression
Watch for Sudden Maneuvers
Locals may turn or merge without signaling
Lane Splitting is Normal
Requires skill and extreme caution
Be Patient and Courteous
Aggressive driving is dangerous
Official Police Fines & Point System (2025)
Korlantas Polri (Indonesian Police Traffic Corps) implemented a new point system in January 2025. Official fine amounts based on UU LLAJ No. 22/2009:
No SIM/License
Pasal 281
Can't Show SIM
Pasal 288
No Helmet
Pasal 291 (each person)
Extra Passenger
Pasal 292 (>1 without sidecar)
Running Red Light
Pasal 287
Speeding
Pasal 287
Point System
12 points annually; license suspended when points depleted. Hit-and-run can result in permanent license revocation.
Official Sources
Pengadilan Negeri (Indonesian Court), Korlantas Polri, Kompas.com (Jan 2025)
Tourist Regulations
Important rules for foreign visitors in Bali
Key Requirements for Foreign Tourists
Driving Requirements
Valid International License
Indonesian Driver's License - mandatory
Helmet Usage
Must wear appropriate helmets while driving motorcycles
Follow Traffic Rules
Speed limits and traffic regulations
No Overloading
Respect passenger capacity limits
No Driving Under Influence
Alcohol or drug prohibition
Cultural Respect
Dress Appropriately
Modest clothing in temples and public areas
Respect Sacred Sites
Honor temples and religious symbols
Observe Customs
Be respectful during ceremonies and traditions
Behave Politely
Courteous conduct in all public spaces
Enforcement & Reporting
The Bali Provincial Government has implemented strict enforcement measures under Circular Letter (SE) Number 7 of 2025. Violations can result in sanctions or legal processes.
Report Violations
Official Provincial Government WhatsApp:
+62 81-287-590-999
Official Sources
Bali Provincial Government (lovebali.baliprov.go.id), Governor Wayan Koster SE No. 7/2025
Weather & Road Conditions
Understanding Bali's weather patterns and road conditions for safe riding
Seasonal Weather Patterns
Dry Season
(Apr-Oct)Excellent riding conditions
Hot sun - wear sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Occasional afternoon showers
Best time for mountain rides
Wet Season
(Nov-Mar)Heavy afternoon rains (daily 2-4 PM)
Slippery road conditions
Reduced visibility (fog & storms)
Avoid riding during storms
Year Round
High humidity (78-82%)
Temperature: 24-32°C (75-89°F)
Strong UV radiation (wear protection)
Sudden weather changes
Riding in Rain - Safety Protocol
Before Riding
Check weather forecast
Ensure good tire tread
Test brakes before departure
Carry rain gear & waterproof bags
During Rain
Reduce speed by 30-50%
Increase following distance (5+ seconds)
Avoid sudden movements
Pull over if visibility is poor
Road Conditions to Watch For
Potholes & Road Damage
Very common on side roads and after heavy rains
Construction Zones
Sudden lane changes required, often unmarked
Narrow Mountain Roads
Sharp turns, steep grades, limited visibility
Oil Spills
Especially dangerous when wet, near gas stations
Loose Gravel
On rural and unpaved roads, new construction
Animals on Road
Dogs, chickens, cattle - especially in villages
Traffic Rush Hours
Morning: 7:30-9:30 AM • Evening: 4:30-8:00 PM (especially South Bali: Canggu, Seminyak, Kuta)
Safety Gear Requirements
Essential protective equipment for safe motorcycle operation
Helmet Requirements (MANDATORY)
Legal Requirements
DOT or SNI certified helmets only
Must be properly fastened at all times
Required for both driver and passenger
Serious fines for non-compliance
What We Provide
High-quality helmets with each rental
Sanitized before each use
Multiple sizes available
Free replacement if damaged
Additional Protective Equipment
Recommended Additional Gear
Protective Clothing
Long pants, closed-toe shoes, long sleeves
Eye Protection
Sunglasses or helmet visor
Sun Protection
Sunscreen (SPF 30+), UV-protective clothing
Rain Gear
Waterproof jacket and pants
What NOT to Wear
Flip-flops or Sandals
Feet must be fully covered for protection
Shorts or Skirts
Legs should be protected from road rash
Tank Tops
Arms need protection from sun and road
Loose Clothing
Can get caught in moving parts
Basic Riding Safety
Essential riding techniques and safety practices
Defensive Riding Principles
Defensive Riding
Assume You're Invisible
Other drivers may not see you
Scan Constantly
Check mirrors every 5-10 seconds
Maintain Space Cushion
3-second following distance minimum
Position for Visibility
Stay in tire tracks of cars ahead
Plan Escape Routes
Always have an exit strategy
Physical Readiness
Never Ride Under Influence
Alcohol, drugs, or medications
Get Adequate Rest
Fatigue is as dangerous as alcohol
Stay Hydrated
Bali's heat can cause dehydration quickly
Take Breaks
Stop every hour for long rides
Know Your Limits
Don't ride beyond your skill level
First-Time Riders in Bali
Before You Start
Practice in quiet areas first
Familiarize yourself with the bike
Start with short, local trips
Avoid rush hour traffic initially
Gradual Progression
Build confidence gradually
Learn local traffic patterns
Practice parking and maneuvering
Consider guided rides initially
Essential Riding Techniques
Braking
Use Both Brakes
Front and rear brakes together
Apply Gradually
Never grab, always progressive
Shift Weight Back
When braking to maintain balance
Practice Emergency Stops
In safe, controlled environment
Cornering
Slow Before Turn
Not during the turn
Look Through Turn
Where you want to go
Lean with Bike
Body follows motorcycle
Steady Throttle
Maintain consistent speed
Lane Positioning
Stay Visible
To other drivers
Avoid Blind Spots
Stay out of danger zones
Use Whole Lane
When safe to do so
Signal Clearly
Communicate intentions
Non-ABS Motorcycle Braking Techniques
Most rental motorcycles in Bali do NOT have ABS. Understanding proper braking technique is critical for safety.
Press-Release Technique
DON'T hold brakes constantly - wheels will lock
Press & release rhythmically - pulse the brakes
Feel the bike's response - adjust pressure accordingly
Control speed gradually - never slam brakes
Emergency Braking
Start with rear brake - then add front progressively
If wheels lock - immediately release and reapply
Keep bike upright - don't lean during hard braking
Practice in safe area - know your bike's limits
Emergency Procedures
What to do in case of accidents, breakdowns, and emergencies
Emergency Contact Numbers
Save these numbers in your phone before riding. In emergencies, every second counts. Police (110) and Ambulance (118) are 24/7, while Bali Ramah Rental is available during business hours.
Emergency Response Procedures
Accident Protocol
Ensure Safety First
Move to safe location if possible. Turn on hazard lights
Check for Injuries
Call 118 immediately if anyone is injured
Call Police
Dial 110 for all accidents, regardless of severity
Contact Bali Ramah
Call +62 859 5481 2850 after ensuring safety
Document Everything
Photos, exchange info, get police report number
Breakdown Assistance
Find Safe Location
Pull over safely, away from traffic
Assess the Problem
Check for obvious issues (fuel, flat tire, etc.)
Call for Help
Contact us at +62 859 5481 2850 - don't attempt repairs
Wait Safely
Stay with vehicle or in safe nearby location
Professional Repair
We'll arrange towing to authorized dealer if needed
Critical: What NOT to Do in Emergencies
These actions can worsen the situation or put you at legal risk. Follow these important restrictions:
Never Move Injured Persons
Unless in immediate danger
Don't Admit Fault
Or sign documents you don't understand
Never Leave Scene
Before police arrive and clear you
No DIY Repairs
Don't attempt major repairs yourself
No On-Spot Payments
Don't pay money to resolve issues
Refuse Unofficial Help
Don't let strangers “help” without police
Stay Calm
Don't panic - help is always available
Stop if Unsafe
Don't continue riding if bike feels unsafe
Medical Emergencies
Medical Emergency Protocol
In medical emergencies, call 118 for ambulance first, then contact these verified hospitals directly. Save these numbers before you ride.
Verified International-Standard Hospitals
BIMC Hospital Nusa Dua
Australian-accredited, 24/7 Emergency
Bali International Hospital
New facility, 24/7 Emergency & Ambulance
RSUP Sanglah (Public Hospital)
Main government hospital, trauma center
Kasih Ibu Hospital Group
Multiple locations, established 1987
Payment & Insurance
Payment Required Upfront
Most hospitals require immediate payment or deposit
Travel Insurance Essential
Medical costs can be very high without coverage
Keep Documents Ready
Insurance, passport, embassy contacts accessible
Important Notes
Call 118 First
National ambulance number for emergency transport
Consider Traffic
Sometimes taxi is faster than ambulance in traffic
Embassy Support Available
Contact your embassy for serious medical situations
Local Knowledge
Insider tips and local insights for safe and enjoyable riding in Bali
Best Times to Ride
Early Morning (6-8 AM)
Light traffic, cool temperatures, peaceful roads
Late Afternoon (4-6 PM)
Good visibility, moderate traffic, scenic lighting
Avoid Rush Hours
7-9 AM and 5-7 PM weekdays - heavy traffic
Nyepi Day (Silence Day)
Complete vehicle ban - no exceptions
Cultural Considerations
Temple Ceremonies
Expect road closures and processions
Respect Local Customs
Dress modestly near temples and ceremonies
Be Patient
Balinese culture values harmony over speed
Learn Basic Indonesian
“Permisi” (excuse me), “Terima kasih” (thank you)
Fuel Stations & Maintenance in Bali
Bali Scooter Fuel Guide
Use only Pertamina fuel recommended for your scooter. Most rental scooters in Bali use Pertalite (RON 90) or Pertamax (RON 92).
Recommended Fuel Types
For Bali scooters & motorcycles
Pertalite (RON 90)
~Rp 10,000/liter • Most common for scooters
✓ Standard fuel for most rental scooters
Pertamax (RON 92)
~Rp 14,500/liter • Higher quality
✓ Better for engine performance
Avoid Premium (RON 88)
Phased out • Too low for modern engines
✗ Not recommended for rental scooters
Where to Buy Fuel in Bali
Official stations vs roadside sellers
Official Pertamina Stations
Best quality • Fair prices • 24/7 on main roads
✓ Always use when available
“Pertamini” Roadside Sellers
Higher prices (Rp 15,000-20,000/liter) • Emergency only
⚠ Check fuel quality before buying
Tank Management
Keep above 1/4 full • Rural areas have limited options
✓ Plan fuel stops on long trips
Essential Maintenance Tips
Daily Checks
Oil level, tire pressure, unusual sounds
Weekly for Long Rentals
Oil level, chain lubrication, brake function
Never DIY Repairs
Contact us immediately for any issues
Authorized Service Only
We'll arrange proper repairs if needed
Popular Routes & Safety Notes
Ubud to Denpasar
45 minutesEasy RouteWell-maintained road with moderate traffic. Popular tourist route with good infrastructure. Watch for tour buses and occasional construction.
Canggu to Uluwatu
1 hourModerateScenic coastal route with stunning ocean views. Some narrow sections require extra attention. Popular for sunset destinations but can be challenging.
Mountain Routes
2-3 hoursAdvanced OnlyBedugul, Kintamani, Jatiluwih - Steep, winding mountain roads with unpredictable weather conditions.
Requires advanced riding skills and experience with challenging terrain. Not recommended for tourists or inexperienced riders.
Final Safety Reminder
Your Safety is Our Priority
Remember that riding a motorcycle in Bali is inherently risky, especially for visitors unfamiliar with local conditions. These guidelines are designed to minimize risk, but cannot eliminate it entirely.
When in Doubt, Don't Ride
Your safety is more important than any destination. If conditions seem unsafe or you feel uncomfortable, alternative transportation is always available.
We're Here to Help
For questions about these guidelines, safety concerns, or assistance during your rental period, don't hesitate to contact us.