How to Choose a Bike in Bali?

Usually, the word bike (we'll continue to call it that) in Bali means a small scooter by our standards. A bike usually has an engine of 125-160 cubes, with a variator, a classic stool seating, a small trunk under the seat, sometimes with an optional top case.

You need a bike for slow, comfortable, and easy transportation for business and pleasure in populated areas or short distances. It is economical, affordable, easy to handle, and maintain, which is why bikes have gained such popularity as a means of transport in warm countries (and not only).

Someone might think it's unserious equipment, or conversely, too complicated to start riding, but in both cases, that's not true.

Firstly, in Bali conditions, large and powerful motorcycles are not needed, but a lightweight, agile vehicle is necessary because the traffic is very dense. It's easy to get stuck in a traffic jam of the same two-wheelers. This is where the variator, which is on the scooters, comes in handy - you don't have to think about gears and the clutch, plus the power is sufficient here - speeds in Bali are low and no one races down the street at 150 km/h like in Russia.

On the island, a bike is precisely used as the main and often only transport for all occasions. So don't be surprised by five people on a bike or transporting a refrigerator on it.

Secondly, as much as it may seem otherwise, a bike is potentially dangerous if used carelessly, so don't take its driving and selection lightly, approach this matter seriously and responsibly - this will help you avoid problems while riding and only get positive emotions.

So, let's discuss how to choose a bike properly.

How to Choose the Right Bike?

The choice will depend on many factors; you need to ask yourself a series of questions and make the right choice depending on the answers.

First Question: What is My Driving Experience?

If you have no driving experience – choose a maximally compliant, easy-to-control bike with the cheapest repairs: you will fall; that's a fact, don't hope it won't happen, be prepared for minor injuries to yourself and the bike (don't forget the gear, at least a helmet, and definitely get medical insurance and bike damage insurance).

A light, obedient bike will allow you to feel confident almost immediately after a few driving lessons. We recommend taking an instructor who will not only quickly teach you how to ride but also show you how to enjoy the process of driving safely.

The best choice in this case is Honda Vario 125, trendy Yamaha Fazzio, Yamaha Lexi 125

If you have experience riding a motorcycle, scooter, etc., it's simple: take a more powerful and larger two-wheeler – it will be more comfortable, fun, dynamic, but remember the local specifics: left-hand driving, heavy traffic, narrow roads, chaotic riding without any rules.

Additionally, be sure to try the bike in an enclosed area where there's no one around. Before entering the road with traffic, practice figure eights, feel how the bike shifts, how it starts, its weight, and dynamic capabilities, try counter-steering, brakes.

The best choice is the nimble Yamaha Aerox 155, if only the driver, if with passenger - take Yamaha NMax, it has more space for seating and legs.

Second Question: How Much Do I Weigh, How Tall Am I, and How Physically Fit Am I?

Yes, even girls will have to answer it honestly )

Choose a bike based on your physical parameters - lower height, weight, and physical development - take a smaller, lighter, simpler bike. If you're a teenager, a slender light girl, a man with a small weight and height, the best choice is Honda Vario 125.

If your height, weight, and physical condition allow you to be considered a full-sized person, take something more powerful, bigger - it will be more comfortable: Yamaha Aerox 155, Yamaha NMax 155.

Third Question: What Distance Will I Travel, How Much Will I Drive Per Day?

If the trips will be short, here everything is simple, and almost any bike will work, preferably a small 125 cc one.

If the trips are long, with luggage and especially a passenger, it's better to take something more spacious and comfortable, with a longer wheelbase, like the NMax 155.

Fourth Question: What and Who Will I Be Traveling With?

If the plan is to carry something heavier and larger than a light backpack or bag, if there’s a passenger, consider a spacious place for a second seat and luggage placement - NMax 155 is ideal. Lexi 125 is also suitable - its large footboard can accommodate a bag or backpack.

Don't forget that you can and should take a luggage top case separately; its capacity is usually around 45 liters, which allows for placing a medium-sized backpack inside.

Fifth Question: What Do I Want from the Bike? For What Purposes Do I Need a Bike?

If it's just for leisurely movement, using it as transport to deliver you and the passenger, that's one thing, and practically any bike will do: Honda Vario 160, NMax, Aerox.

If you enjoy driving, dynamic riding, are ready to conquer long distances, and have good experience - take the most dynamic Yamaha XMax Connected!

Sixth and Final Question, although it might be first: Do I Even Need a Bike?

Yes, you definitely need one, even if you have no riding experience. Simply because a bike allows you to visit more places, spend much less time doing it, you become mobile, independent of transport providers, and your opportunities to visit places, bring something, see something, and buy something immediately increase. It's also economical: taxis, car rentals, and transfers are more expensive than renting a bike. Moreover, a bike allows you to immerse yourself in the life of Bali, feel the place's color, beauty, and features. A bike will give you numerous positive emotions, as driving in a beautiful place is a special pleasure, a sense of flight, and the feel of the air, making everything sharper and more interesting.

In short, why you need a bike - it's freedom!