If you live in Bali for more than a week, you’ll end up on a scooter. The only question is: rent one, buy one, or figure out how to sell yours when you leave? I’ve been through all three – here’s the honest scoop, including prices, paperwork, and all the little traps nobody tells you about.
1. Why Scooters Rule Bali
Forget taxis. Forget walking (except maybe in Ubud). Scooters are Bali’s arteries. They’re cheap, fast, and they get you down those tiny gang streets cars can’t enter. That’s why the scooter rental business is booming – and why so many expats eventually decide to buy.
2. Typical Price Ranges by Model
| Model | New Price (2025 est.) | Used Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Honda Scoopy | ~ IDR 23-25 million | IDR 12-18 million |
| Honda Vario | ~ IDR 25-28 million | IDR 15-22 million |
| Yamaha NMAX | ~ IDR 34-38 million | IDR 20-28 million |
| Honda ADV 150 | ~ IDR 43-47 million | IDR 28-35 million |
| Yamaha XMAX | ~ IDR 50-55 million | IDR 35-45 million |
💡 Insider tip: If you’re paying under IDR 12 million for a scooter that looks good, double-check the papers.
3. The Papers: STNK & BPKB Explained
This is where most foreigners trip up.
- STNK: Your registration card, renewed every year when you pay tax. If the tax is unpaid, you’ll get fined – not the previous owner.
- BPKB: The blue book, the ultimate proof of ownership. Whoever’s name is on this, owns the scooter.
👉 Rule of thumb: No BPKB = no buy.
4. Buying a Scooter in Bali – Step by Step
- Where to look: Facebook Marketplace, OLX, expat WhatsApp groups, or just ask around. Dealers exist, but you’ll pay a premium.
- What to check:
- STNK tax up to date?
- Original BPKB present?
- Scooter not full of scratches from an accident?
- Seller has the KTP (ID card) matching the BPKB?
- Your name on the BPKB? Officially, yes. In reality, most foreigners ride scooters still under the local’s name. It’s common – just know resale value will be lower.
5. Selling a Scooter in Bali
Selling can be easy – or a nightmare.
- If the BPKB is in your name: Great, you can transfer smoothly.
- If it isn’t: Be honest in your ad. Scooters “without name transfer” sell for 20–30% less.
- Where to sell: Facebook groups, OLX, expat circles, or even by taping a “Dijual” (for sale) sign in a warung window.
6. The Risks Nobody Tells You About
- Police checks: They’re not daily, but when they happen, they’ll ask for STNK. Rarely for BPKB. Always for helmets.
- If you sell but don’t transfer: If the new owner racks up fines, the trail goes back to the name on the BPKB.
- Fake papers: Yes, they exist. Always check at Samsat if you’re unsure.
7. Renting vs Buying – Which Makes More Sense?
- Renting: Around IDR 900k–1.3m per month. If you’re in Bali for less than 4 months, just rent.
- Buying: A decent scooter costs IDR 18–25 million. If you’ll stay longer than 6 months, buying often saves money – plus you can sell it when you leave.
⚠️ Don’t rent out your scooter to others without a license. It’s technically illegal, and if they crash, you’re responsible.
8. Tips for a Smooth Deal
- Always check the STNK tax date.
- Get a simple receipt (bill of sale).
- Keep copies of all papers until you know transfer is complete.
- Be transparent in ads: mention STNK/BPKB status up front.
Conclusion
Yes, foreigners can buy and sell scooters in Bali. The key is understanding the papers. A scooter with valid STNK and BPKB is worth its price; one without is just a gamble.
👉 Summary:
- Buy if staying long-term. Rent if short-term.
- Check STNK and BPKB before paying.
- Don’t panic if the scooter is still in someone else’s name—it’s normal, but price it lower when you sell.
Follow these Bali expat scooter tips, and you’ll ride (and maybe sell) your scooter with confidence.
