How to Carry Surfboards Safely on Bali Scooters

Published on

7.3.25

Min. read time

Transporting a surfboard on a scooter in Bali can be tricky, but it’s manageable with the right gear and safety tips. Here’s what you need to know:

Key Challenges: Reduced stability, wind resistance, and longer stopping distances.
Essential Gear: Surfboard racks (side-mounted or rear-mounted), heavy-duty straps, board padding, and waterproof covers (especially during Bali's rainy season).
Riding Tips: Ride slower than usual, avoid peak traffic times, and take wider turns for balance.
Legal Requirements: International Driving Permit, helmets, and compliance with load size regulations.

If this feels overwhelming, consider alternatives like surf camp transport services or renting boards locally to avoid the hassle. Follow these guidelines to safely navigate Bali’s roads with your surfboard.

Wayan. Creative Builder. Surfboard racks. Bali

Required Equipment for Surfboard Transport

When selecting a rack for your surfboard, consider the board's size and your riding preferences:

Rack Type	Best For	Considerations
Side-mounted	Longer boards, added stability	Uses side space and may impact scooter balance
Rear-mounted	Shortboards, compact setup	Reduces passenger space, less stable for long boards

In Bali, many scooter rental companies provide scooters with pre-installed racks, costing around $1.30-$2 USD per day.

Board Protection Materials

Protect your board from vibrations and damage by layering materials:

Use a heavy-duty board bag or sock for overall protection.
Add foam padding where the board contacts the rack.
Include thick towels or surfboard pads for extra cushioning.

During the rainy season (October-April), a waterproof bag is essential to keep your board dry.

Straps and Security Tools

You'll need the right straps and tools to secure your board:

2 heavy-duty tie-down straps for the front and back.
Backup bungee cords to absorb shocks on bumpy roads.
Cam buckle straps for quick adjustments and re-tightening.

Make sure your straps can handle 15-20kg loads. Bali's uneven roads can loosen straps, so check their tension periodically.

To handle coastal conditions, opt for stainless steel hardware and waterproof straps. Keep in mind that the total width of your scooter, including the mounted board, shouldn't exceed 1.5 meters. With the right equipment in place, you're ready to move on to safely loading your board.

How to Load and Secure Your Surfboard

Board Placement Guide

Start by placing your surfboard on the scooter's rack. Position the board on the side of the scooter, not on top, to maintain balance and avoid traffic hazards.

For better stability:

Distribute the board's weight evenly on both sides.
Angle longer boards slightly upward to prevent them from hitting the ground.

Size	Positioning	Notes
Shortboard (<7ft)	Side-mounted horizontal	Focus on even weight balance.
Longboard (>8ft)	Angled upward	Make sure the tail clears the ground.
Multiple boards	Largest board closest to scooter	Limit to 2 boards.

Strapping Methods

Use three key points to secure your board:

Cross straps over the nose.
Tighten straps around the board's midpoint with adjustable tension.
Secure the tail area while keeping the fins elevated.

Rely on the straps you selected earlier (see Section 2) as your main fasteners. Check the straps every 15–20 minutes, as vibrations and movement can loosen them.

Tips for Multiple Boards

If you're carrying two boards:

Place the larger board directly against the scooter, with the smaller board on top.
Add padding between boards to prevent damage.
Make sure your rental insurance covers transporting multiple boards.
Practice balancing at low speeds before hitting the road.

Learn these steps well before diving into traffic navigation techniques.

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Riding Tips for Bali Traffic

Safe Riding Techniques

When carrying a surfboard, it’s crucial to maintain control by riding 10-15 km/h below the speed limit and shifting your weight slightly forward to balance the board’s weight. To stay in control:

Keep both hands firmly on the handlebars.
Make smooth, gradual movements when accelerating or braking.
Stick to the left lane to let faster vehicles pass safely.
Take wider turns to accommodate the surfboard’s length.

Here’s a quick guide on the best times to ride and what to prioritize:

Time of Day	Priority Actions
Early Morning (Before 7 AM)	Best time to ride - roads are quieter.
Rush Hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM)	Avoid riding if possible - traffic is heavy.
Midday	Protect yourself from sun exposure.
Evening/Night	Use extra lighting for better visibility.

Road Hazard Management

During Bali’s wet season, reduce your speed by 25-30% and keep a following distance of at least 4 seconds when carrying a surfboard. Keep an eye out for these common hazards:

Potholes and gravel: Slow down early to avoid sudden jolts.
Monsoon conditions: Avoid sharp movements on slippery roads.
Stray animals: Be ready to stop quickly.
Road construction: Follow detour signs carefully.

For better visibility, clean your helmet visor regularly. These precautions are especially important when dealing with the added wind resistance and weight of a surfboard.

Bali Traffic Rules

When transporting surfboards, follow these local traffic regulations:

The surfboard should not extend more than 1 meter beyond the scooter’s rear.
Attach a red flag or reflector to the board’s extremities for visibility.
Avoid riding on main roads during peak hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM).

Other Transport Options

If riding through Bali's traffic with a surfboard feels too risky, there are other ways to get around.

Surf Camp Transport Services

Many surf camps in Bali offer transport services that take the hassle out of moving your board. These services typically cost 100,000-500,000 IDR per day, depending on the distance and type of service. Drivers are familiar with handling surfboards and often have proper storage equipment.

Find Surf Camp Bali provides a directory of camps offering transport packages that may include:

Daily shuttles to popular surf spots
Airport transfers
Board handling
Local knowledge of surf spots

Surfboard Rentals

Skip the transport challenges altogether by renting a surfboard locally. Rentals are widely available at popular spots like Kuta, Uluwatu, and Canggu. Prices range from 50,000 to 150,000 IDR per day ($3.50 to $10.50 USD). Options include everything from beginner-friendly foam boards to high-performance shortboards.

Ferry and Local Transport

For surfers heading to nearby islands, ferries are a great option. Fast boats to the Gili Islands take 1.5 to 2.5 hours and cost 250,000-650,000 IDR one-way, with extra charges for surfboards.

Here are some tips for ferry travel with boards:

Let the operator know about your board when booking and arrive 30 minutes early for loading.
Ask for shaded storage to protect your board from the sun.

For getting around Bali itself, hiring private drivers is another option. Be sure to book in advance and mention your board's size.

Scooter Rental Guidelines

Scooters remain a popular choice for surfers due to their convenience, but picking the right one is essential for a smooth experience.

Choosing a Surf-Friendly Scooter

Look for scooters with engines of 125cc or more to handle the extra weight of your surfboard and Bali's challenging terrain. Expect daily rental costs to fall between 50,000-70,000 IDR, with surfboard racks adding an additional 20,000-50,000 IDR. A well-equipped scooter is key to ensuring safe and efficient transport.

Before renting, check that the surfboard racks are sturdy, free of rust, and securely mounted. Also, make sure the brakes are in good condition and that helmets are provided.

Insurance Options

Consider upgrading to a more comprehensive insurance plan for an extra 20,000-30,000 IDR per day. This is especially important if you're transporting a surfboard, as basic insurance often doesn't cover surf-related incidents. This added protection aligns with the safety measures discussed earlier.

Penalties for Traffic Violations

Be cautious of traffic regulations, as fines for oversized or unsecured loads can reach up to 1,000,000 IDR. Surfboards that aren't properly secured can still lead to penalties, even if you've followed the recommended strapping techniques from Section 3. Local authorities strictly enforce these rules, particularly with surfers.

Summary: Safe Surfboard Transport on Bali Scooters

Transporting surfboards safely on Bali scooters requires two key factors: using surfboard-specific racks and riding carefully. These steps, combined with the equipment and strategies discussed earlier, ensure a safer experience.

Key safety measures include:

Gear you need: A scooter rack designed for surfboards, two strong straps, and board padding.
Riding tips: Keep your speed low, check your straps regularly, and stay within Bali's load width limits.

If scooters aren't your thing, Find Surf Camp Bali can connect you with camps that offer shuttle services to popular surf spots.

The right gear, awareness of your surroundings, and following Bali's guidelines are all essential for a smooth and safe journey.