How To Rent A Scooter, And Drive Safe In Lombok

For many travelers, exploring the beautiful island of Lombok, Indonesia, becomes an adventure of a lifetime, especially when journeying on a scooter. Renting a scooter offers unparalleled freedom to discover Lombok’s stunning landscapes at your own pace.

This comprehensive guide provides all the essential information you need to know about renting a scooter in Lombok, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and hassle-free experience.

Renting a Scooter in Lombok: Cost and Insurance Considerations

The cost of renting a scooter in Lombok varies depending on the type of scooter and the rental duration. On average, the daily rental price ranges from IDR 50,000 to IDR 150,000. It’s crucial to inquire whether the rental price includes insurance. Many rentals offer basic insurance, but it’s wise to clarify the extent of coverage, especially for damages and theft.

It’s important to understand the different kinds of insurance. My bike didn’t have any insurance and I was okay with it. I have a valid driver’s license and my travel insurance covers me if I get in an accident. However, if I damaged the bike I would have to pay for it myself.

If you rent a scooter make sure to ask what the insurance covers. If it’s just for the bike you shouldn’t pay much for it. It’s also very important that you know if you are insured if you get in an accident, and that not just the bike is insured. If you are breaking laws then there’s a big chance your insurance won’t cover anything, like driving under the influence or without a license. If you get hurt and end up in a hospital you can be financially ruined without insurance.

Essential Requirements for Renting a Scooter in Lombok

To rent a scooter in Lombok, you should have:

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English.
• A passport for identification purposes.

Some rental companies may also have age and experience requirements.

However, many places don’t require anything at all to rent a bike. They will need you to sign a contract where you write where you are staying, and your WhatsApp number. Make sure to get their WhatsApp number also, you will need it if something happens!

I rented a scooter for 50,000 per day, that’s easy to find. One of the places wanted to keep my passport, so I just went to the next shop and there I didn’t need to leave my passport.

Safety on the Road: Is it Safe to Drive a Scooter in Lombok?

Riding a scooter in Lombok can be safe if you adhere to road safety rules. The island’s roads are generally in good condition, but rural areas may have less maintained roads. Be cautious of traffic, particularly in busy areas, and always wear a helmet. If you’re new to riding scooters, practice in less crowded areas before venturing onto main roads.

Are You Safe On The Road – Make Sure You Know How To Ride a Scooter

If you don’t have a license and you want to learn to drive a scooter in Lombok you might want to reconsider. Find somewhere where you can practice, and be extra careful when it’s raining, its slippery!

You will see that many tourists are going way faster than locals, and not using a helmet. By going slow and using a helmet you reduce the risk a lot! If you fall off your bike while driving it’s a good chance your next weeks are ruined, or worse.

Choosing the Right Scooter: Size and Features

Standard vs. Bigger Scooters

Standard scooters, typically 110cc to 125cc, are suitable for most travelers and are easier to handle. For more experienced riders or those planning to ride on hilly terrains, larger scooters like the Nmax, which offer more power and comfort, might be preferable.

If you are to people you might want to get a bigger scooter like a Nmax, but you don’t need it. With scooters you get the room for storing some luggage, you don’t have that on the offroad bikes.

Scooters with Surf Racks

The picture shows my scooter with the surf rack. If you don’t need ut, just ask them to take it off. Its better to drive without it, especially if your two people.

For surf enthusiasts, many rental shops offer scooters equipped with surf racks. This feature makes it convenient to transport surfboards to Lombok’s famous surf spots. The rack can also be taken off.

If you’re new to surfing you don’t need a surf rack for the first days or week. You will probably just be going to places like Selong Belanak and rent a board there. But if you want to surf at different beaches with your board you need a scooter with a surf rack. It doesn’t cost more to rent a scooter with a surf rack.

Renting a Scooter in Bali vs. Lombok

While you can rent a scooter in Bali and bring it over to Lombok, it involves additional logistics such as arranging ferry transport for the scooter. Renting directly in Lombok can be more convenient and eliminates the need for extra transportation arrangements.

If you are in Bali and have a scooter already then you can take the slow ferry with your scooter. That will make the journey faster and you will save some money on transport. Read our full guide for taking the slow ferry from Bali to Lombok here!

Navigating Lombok on a Scooter: Routes and Destinations

Lombok offers a variety of scenic routes that are perfect for exploring on a scooter. These routes include the coastal roads and winding paths in the hills. Kuta, Senggigi, and the Rinjani foothills are popular destinations for scooter riders. To ensure a safe journey, it’s essential to carry a map or GPS, keep an eye on fuel levels, and be aware of the nearest gas stations. You can easily find small shops selling fuel in bottles nearby.

Legal and Safety Guidelines for Scooter Rentals

• Helmets are mandatory by law when riding a scooter in Indonesia.
• Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws.
• Avoid riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Ensure the scooter’s lights and brakes function properly before setting off.

Problems With Police When Driving Scooter In Lombok

I was in Lombok for one month and didn’t get stopped once. Make sure you always use a helmet, that also reduces the chances of being pulled over very much.

Most of the travelers I met paid the police a bribe for not using a helmet. First of all, bribing the police is not good for society, but if you are in the situation it is what you probably should do. One very easy way to avoid that and to be a good tourist in their country is to follow their laws!

Where to Rent a Scooter in Lombok

Mataram, Kuta, and Senggigi are among the areas with numerous reputable scooter rental services. Look for rentals that offer well-maintained scooters and clear rental terms. Some services provide the convenience of delivering the scooter to your hotel or picking it up at the airport.

I just went with the cheapest I could find. But to get the least problems and less hassle it’s better to pay a bit more and go for one of those more reputable shops with high ratings. Thebluemarlinbikerental for example has a 5-star Google rating and more than 250 reviews. I rented from Bady Rental Scooter which was good in my experience with a low budget.

Avoid Scams When Renting Scooter

Unfortunately some scams are going on in Lombok, most can be avoided by renting from a place with good reviews. Always take a good video of the bike.

Some people have got their scooter stolen in the night from their accommodation, and some of the time it’s been the rental company that has done it. The best way to avoid it is to park somewhere safe, preferably somewhere gated.

When you’re out parking at different places choose parking places that are guarded. Also always lock your steering wheel when parking it.

How to Rent A Scooter

When you have found a place with good reviews, a scooter that’s the right size, and you are happy with the insurance you get, then you have to check the bike!

Make sure your bike has a good phone holder! Nothing worse than having to hold the phone in your hand while driving to see the map. It is the most important accessory for the scooter. Check the lights and tires first. Then check the brakes, and make sure you know which one is the front and back brake!

When you know all the practical things like how to fuel it up and open the luggage then you should take a video of the bike. Check all of this and take the video before you sign the contract!

Should You Rent A Scooter In Lombok?

Renting a scooter in Lombok opens up a world of exploration and adventure. It allows you to experience the island’s natural beauty intimately and at your own pace. With the right preparation, awareness of local driving conditions, and adherence to safety practices, your scooter journey in Lombok can be an unforgettable part of your Indonesian adventure.