1. Choose Less Busy Hours for Your Trips
One of the simplest ways to avoid traffic is to plan your trips outside of peak hours. In the morning (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM) and evening (4:00 PM to 6:00 PM), the main roads, especially in cities and tourist areas, can be crowded. It’s best to travel between these time frames when traffic is lighter.
2. Use Narrow Streets and Alternate Routes
One of the main advantages of a motorcycle is its maneuverability. Unlike cars, motorcycles can easily travel through narrow streets and alternative routes, bypassing main roads with heavy traffic. Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to find less congested routes and side streets.
3. Avoid Tourist Areas During Peak Hours
Tourist areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud are often packed with cars and tourists during peak hours. Try to plan your trips so that you avoid these areas in the middle of the day. If you need to pass through tourist zones, it’s best to do so early in the morning or late in the evening.
4. Use Traffic Monitoring Apps
Modern navigation apps like Waze and Google Maps provide real-time traffic information. These apps help you plan your route ahead of time and avoid traffic jams. They can also suggest alternate routes if there’s a traffic jam on your main route.
5. Choose Secondary Roads Instead of Main Highways
Main roads in Bali, like Sunset Road or Ngurah Rai Bypass, are often crowded, especially during the tourist season. Motorcycles allow you to use less busy secondary roads, which may be a bit longer but will help you avoid traffic. These roads often pass through scenic areas and villages, making the ride even more enjoyable.
6. Consider Weather Conditions
During the rainy season (from October to March), roads can become slippery, and traffic jams increase due to slower movement. Plan your trips during dry periods of the day or choose routes with less congestion. Additionally, rain can reduce visibility, so always try to avoid heavily trafficked roads in bad weather.
7. Use Motorcycle-Only Parking Spots
Parking spots for cars in Bali are often limited, which can cause traffic jams. Motorcyclists can take advantage of designated motorcycle parking areas, which are closer to city centers and tourist attractions, helping you avoid traffic when searching for parking.
Conclusion
Traveling by motorcycle in Bali gives you many advantages that allow you to avoid traffic jams and save time. With proper route planning, using alternate roads, and navigation apps, you can enjoy the freedom of movement and explore the island without getting stuck in traffic.