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Complete guide for foreign tourists about motorcycle culture, how to use Gojek, riding etiquette, prices, and safe travel tips in Indonesia.
Understanding Indonesian Motorcycle Culture
Welcome to Indonesia! If this is your first visit to this archipelagic nation, one of the most striking sights you’ll encounter is the sheer number of motorcycles flooding the streets. Indonesia has over 140 million registered motorcycles, making it one of the countries with the highest motorcycle population in the world.
Online motorcycle taxis (motorcycle taxi apps) like Gojek and Grab have revolutionized the way Indonesians—and tourists—travel. This article will guide you in understanding Indonesia’s motorcycle culture and how to use online motorcycle taxis safely and comfortably.
History of Ojek in Indonesia to the Emergence of Online Ojek
Ojek has been an important part of Indonesian society since the 1960s–1970s, especially in major cities like Jakarta, Bandung, and Surabaya. During that time, ojek emerged as a quick transportation solution amid limited public transport that couldn’t reach narrow alleys. Ojek drivers typically waited at strategic points such as markets, terminals, or intersections, offering shuttle services through a bargaining system. As cities grew and traffic congestion increased, society’s need for nimble and efficient motorcycle transportation continued to rise.
Why Are Motorcycles So Popular in Indonesia?
As an archipelagic nation with more than 17,000 islands, motorcycles have become an extremely popular mode of transportation for various reasons. Motorcycle prices are relatively affordable—used motorcycles can be purchased starting from Rp5–10 million—plus fuel consumption is economical (around 30–50 km per liter). Motorcycles can also maneuver easily through traffic jams and pass through narrow roads inaccessible to cars. This combination of factors makes motorcycles an inseparable part of Indonesian mobility.
Most Common Types of Motorcycles
- Matic (automatic scooter): Like Honda Beat or Yamaha Mio. Most popular because they’re easy for anyone to ride.
- Bebek (underbone/cub): Examples: Honda Revo, Yamaha Jupiter. Known for being economical and durable for long-distance travel.
- Sport: Like Kawasaki Ninja or Yamaha R15. Usually used by speed enthusiasts or young people.
From Ojek Pangkalan to Online Ojek
When the digital era began to develop, the traditional ojek system transformed into a more organized modern service through the emergence of online ojek. This breakthrough was pioneered by Gojek, founded by Nadiem Makarim in 2010. Initially, Gojek only operated as a small call center with about 20 ojek pangkalan drivers. However, the launch of the Gojek app in 2015 became a major turning point. The app provided price transparency, real-time driver location tracking features, non-cash payments, and opened access to various other services such as GoFood, GoSend, and GoCar. Gojek’s presence not only facilitated public mobility but also created new job opportunities and became an icon of technological innovation in Indonesia.
Motorcycles as "Mobile Offices"
Motorcycles in Indonesia are also used for almost any purpose: taking children to school, carrying groceries, transporting goods, and helping with small moves. It’s not uncommon to see unique sights like motorcycles carrying refrigerators, shelves, large plants, or tall stacks of goods. These things have become part of daily life for people in various cities.
How to Use Online Motorcycle Taxis (Gojek) in Indonesia
For many visitors, the Gojek app often becomes their “first friend” when arriving in Indonesia. Flexible, fast, and economical—Gojek helps you move around easily in major cities like Jakarta, Bali, Jogja, or Surabaya.
Download and Register a Gojek Account
The first step is to download the Gojek app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gojek.app&pcampaignid=web_share
https://apps.apple.com/id/app/gojek/id944875099
The registration process requires:
- Local phone number: The easiest way is to buy an Indonesian SIM card (available at airports, convenience stores, or operator shops). Starter card prices range from Rp10,000–50,000 (about $0.65–$3.20 USD).
- Foreign number: Some apps accept international numbers, but certain features may be limited. You’ll receive an OTP (One-Time Password) code via SMS for verification.
Also prepare an email address and profile photo. The registration process usually takes less than 5 minutes.
How to Order a Ride
- Open the app and activate your phone’s GPS
- Enter pickup location: An automatic pin will appear according to your current location. You can drag the pin or type the address manually if needed
- Enter destination: Type the place name, address, or choose from saved locations
- Choose service:
- GoRide: Motorcycle taxi for 1 passenger
- GoCar: Car for 1–4 passengers (more comfortable for groups or lots of luggage)
- GoFood: Order food from restaurants
- GoSend: Send packages or documents
- Check price and time estimate: The price will appear before you order. Usually includes distance, duration, and traffic conditions
- Confirm order and wait for driver to accept
Payment Methods
Gojek and Grab offer several payment options:
- Cash: Pay directly to the driver upon arrival
- GoPay/OVO (e-wallet): Top up balance through convenience stores (Indomaret, Alfamart) or bank transfer
- Credit/debit card: Link your card in the settings menu
Tips: E-wallets often provide special promos and discounts. Very useful for tourists who want to save money.
Technology and Additional Features
Security Features in the App
- Share Trip: Send real-time trip details to emergency contacts
- Emergency Button: SOS button for emergencies
- In-App Chat/Call: Communicate without sharing personal numbers
- Rating & Review: Help other drivers and future users by providing honest feedback
Additional Gojek Features
- GoFood: Order food from 100,000+ restaurants
- GoMart: Shop for groceries from nearby supermarkets
- GoMassage: Massage service to your hotel
- GoPulsa: Buy phone credit or data packages
- GoPay Later: 0% installments for certain transactions
Alternative App: Grab
Grab is similar to Gojek and also popular. Many Indonesians have both apps to compare prices. Main features are the same: GrabBike (motorcycle), GrabCar (car), GrabFood.
Pro Tip: Install both and compare prices before ordering!
Tips for Riding Online Ojek
Tips for Ordering at Tourist Locations
- Airport: Use the special online ojek pickup area, usually separate from conventional taxis. At Soekarno-Hatta Airport (Jakarta) and Ngurah Rai (Bali), follow signs to the online ojek zone.
- Hotel: Inform hotel staff you’re ordering an online ojek so they can help the driver find the right entrance.
- Crowded tourist spots: Move the pickup pin to an easy-to-find place, like the main entrance or nearest landmark.
Tips for Riding Online Ojek at Night
- Choose well-lit and crowded pickup areas
- Share trip details to friends or family through the app’s share trip feature
- Sit comfortably and stay aware of your surroundings
- If you feel unsafe, cancel the trip and order again
Reporting Problems
If problems occur (rude driver, wrong route, accident), report through:
- “Help” menu in the app
- Rating and review after trip completion
- Customer service: Gojek and Grab have 24/7 hotlines
What's the Actual Cost of Online Ojek?
Online ojek fares in Indonesia are quite affordable. GoRide typically ranges from Rp8,000–40,000 depending on distance, while GoCar generally costs Rp12,000–60,000. Rates in Jakarta tend to be higher, Bali often has surge pricing in tourist areas, while Jogja and Bandung are relatively cheaper. Prices can increase 1.2x–2x during rain, rush hours, or major events.
From airports, GoCar fares from Soekarno-Hatta to central Jakarta are around Rp80,000–150,000, while from Ngurah Rai (Bali) to Kuta/Seminyak around Rp40,000–70,000. Tipping is not mandatory, but polite if you’re satisfied with the service—usually Rp5,000–10,000, or simply round up the payment while saying “tidak usah kembalian” (keep the change).
What Tourists Should Know When Riding Online Ojek
Helmet Use: Primary Safety
In Indonesia, wearing a helmet is mandatory by law. Online ojek drivers always carry an extra helmet for passengers.
Etiquette for Riding Motorcycles in Indonesia
- Sit upright and maintain body balance
- Hold the rear grab bar or side of the seat. Traditionally, female passengers may hold the driver’s shoulder or jacket if there’s no grab bar—but holding the motorcycle handle is more recommended for both parties’ comfort
- Don’t move suddenly or lean when the motorcycle turns
- Feet must be on footpegs, not dangling or touching the ground
Storing Luggage Safely
- Backpack: Wear it in front (on chest) to avoid imbalance, especially if heavy
- Sling bag or tote bag: Cross it over your body so it doesn’t come loose easily
- Camera/valuables: Store inside bag or grip tightly. Avoid hanging around neck
- Large items: Consider GoCar or GoSend for separate delivery
Tropical Weather: Common Challenges
Indonesia has a tropical climate with characteristics:
- Sudden rain: Especially during the rainy season (October–March). Drivers usually carry raincoats for passengers
- Scorching heat: Temperatures can reach 32–35°C. Bring drinking water, hat, or sunscreen
Almost every online ojek driver carries a raincoat in the motorcycle trunk. If it rains, they’ll offer it to you. Some drivers even carry extra covers for bags or backpacks.
Enjoy the Indonesian Motorcycle Culture Experience
Riding an online ojek is one of the fastest ways to experience Indonesian motorcycle culture up close. You’re not just moving from one location to another, but also experiencing the rhythm of community life, warm interactions with local drivers, and the uniqueness of Indonesian streets.
If you want to better understand Indonesian culture and learn language for daily life, Basantara provides various materials that are easy for beginners to understand.
Enjoy your journey in Indonesia—and happy riding on online ojek!
