The Art of the Ride: Do’s & Don’ts of Renting a Motorbike in Bali

Bali reveals itself slowly, like the lingering scent of frangipani at dusk or the soft murmur of waves folding into volcanic sand. And perhaps there is no better way to uncover its soul than from the seat of a motorbike—windswept, free, and deeply immersed in the pulse of the island.

Renting a motorbike in Bali is more than a practical choice—it’s a ritual of discovery, a chance to slip between temple walls and terraced rice fields, to taste the salt of the sea and the smoke of morning offerings in the same breath. Yet, like all sacred journeys, it comes with its own rhythms and unspoken codes.

Whether you’re winding along the coastal road to Cemagi or tracing the scent of incense through Ubud’s backstreets, here are the essential do’s and don’ts for navigating Bali on two wheels—safely, stylishly, and soulfully.

The Do’s

Do Embrace the Island Pace
Bali is not a place to rush. Ride slowly. Observe. Let the rhythm of the island guide you. The road becomes part of the experience—where even a traffic pause becomes a moment to watch ducks parade through paddies or to glimpse a daily ceremony unfolding under banyan trees.

Do Carry an International Driver’s Permit
Legally and respectfully, you must hold a valid international driver’s license with a motorbike endorsement. Police checks are common, and compliance is not just about convenience—it’s about honoring the local systems and staying protected.

Do Choose a Reputable Rental Provider
Seek out rental services known for well-maintained bikes and proper insurance. Ask your villa concierge at The Bali Manor Collection—we only recommend trusted partners whose service reflects the same commitment to quality and care.

Do Wear a Helmet—Always
Not just for legality, but as a gesture of mindfulness. Even in the sultry heat, the helmet becomes a symbol of respect—for your life, for those who share the road with you, and for the unpredictable beauty of Bali itself.

Do Keep Offerings Sacred
You’ll notice small canang sari—woven palm leaf offerings—adorning intersections, sidewalks, and thresholds. Ride around them gently. These floral tributes are not debris but daily whispers of gratitude and devotion.

Do Learn the Language of the Road
A honk in Bali is not aggressive—it’s a greeting, a heads-up, a note of presence. Learn to use it softly and often, like a bell through fog. Traffic here flows like water, and awareness is your best companion.

The Don’ts

Don’t Assume Western Rules Apply
Road rules in Bali have a different rhythm. Lanes are flexible, right of way often ambiguous. Yield generously, anticipate unpredictability, and remember that harmony—not hierarchy—governs the dance of traffic.

Don’t Ride Without Insurance
Accidents, though rare for mindful riders, can be costly. Travel insurance that covers motorbike use is essential. It’s a small step that offers vast peace of mind.

Don’t Drive in Heavy Rain
Bali’s tropical skies can open suddenly. If rain falls hard, pull over at a warung or roadside café. Sip on ginger tea or coconut water. Wait. This too is part of the journey.

Don’t Ride Without Experience
The Balinese roads are not ideal for first-time riders. If you’re new to scooters or motorbikes, consider hiring a local driver or taking a short training session first. There’s no rush—Bali will wait.

Don’t Be Distracted by Your Phone
The island is alive with movement—dogs crossing lazily, children playing at roadside shrines. Keep your phone tucked away. Let your eyes drink in the textures of daily life instead.

Don’t Forget to Fill Up with Cash
Most fuel stations are cash-only, and you’ll often refill at small kiosks selling Pertalite in vodka bottles. Keep small denominations handy—it’s all part of the charm.

In Closing: The Freedom of the Open Road

Riding through Bali is not merely transportation—it’s transformation. The motorbike becomes a vessel of freedom, of closeness with the elements, of quiet joy found in spontaneous detours.

From your private sanctuary at The Bali Manor Collection, ask our team to arrange your ride or guide you to safe and soulful alternatives. Whether you choose to explore on two wheels or with a trusted local driver, the spirit of Bali is best seen slowly—through your own eyes, in your own time, with reverence and curiosity.

Bali doesn’t just invite you to see it.
It invites you to feel it.
 One ride, one road, one breath at a time.