According to a survey, one in every 1.5 people aged 20 or older in Indonesia owns a motorcycle. This translates to approximately 125.3 million motorcycles. The scenes of motorcycle traffic jams, and three or even four people riding on a single bike, which are often associated with urban areas in Southeast Asia, are part of daily life in Indonesia as well.

Introduction

As Indonesia’s economy has developed, more households have come to own automobiles. While roads used to be dominated by motorcycles, today, traffic jams where motorcycles are squeezed between cars are becoming more common.

That said, motorcycles remain the primary means of transportation for ordinary people, both in the past and today. It is no exaggeration to say that there are as many motorcycles as there are adults. This article introduces the motorcycle culture in Indonesia through data and videos.

By the Numbers: Indonesia and Motorcycles

85% of Indonesian Households Own at Least One Motorcycle

According to the 2023 Statistical Report of Indonesia published by the Indonesian Central Statistics Agency (BPS), the number of motorcycles in the country has continued to increase over the past decade, reaching approximately 125.3 million units by the end of 2022.

This means that one in every 1.5 individuals aged 20 or older owns a motorcycle (with the legal minimum age for riding a motorcycle set at 17). Another survey indicates that 85% of households own at least one motorcycle.

According to a study by Katadata Insight Center, the most frequently cited considerations when purchasing a motorcycle included the recommendation of the store owner, ease of purchase (e.g., multiple payment options, installment plans, simple procedures), color, comfort, and design.

The most common reason for purchase was “because the old motorcycle broke down,” accounting for 69.7%. The best-selling models are priced under IDR 20 million (approximately USD 1,290 at an exchange rate of IDR 15,500/USD). For example, Honda’s popular models in Indonesia, such as the Beat and Vario, are generally priced slightly under IDR 20 million.

The most consulted source when choosing a motorcycle was social media (67.8%), followed by recommendations from family and friends (46.5%), official brand websites (41%), and TV commercials (35.3%).

References:

• Indonesia baik “Negara dengan Penggunaan Sepeda Motor Tertinggi”
• databoks “Ini Pertumbuhan Jumlah Motor di Indonesia 10 Tahun Terakhir” / “Piramida Penduduk Indonesia 2022, Usia Produktif Mendominasi”
• Katadata “Sepeda Motor Jadi Moda Transportasi Pilihan”

With rising income levels in recent years, more households have begun to own cars. However, motorcycles remain the most widely used mode of transportation for various reasons.

In urban areas, for instance, people often choose motorcycles to navigate congested roads more smoothly. Others need motorcycles to travel through narrow residential streets. There are even households with no space to park a car even if they could afford one.

Of course, affordable prices and fuel efficiency are also major reasons behind the popularity of motorcycles. Economically constrained households or those lacking parking space often continue to share a single motorcycle among all family members.

Indonesia and Motorcycles in Video

Massive Traffic Jams During Long Holidays

Watch the Video

Traffic congestion is a daily occurrence in urban areas of Indonesia, but during long holidays, such as the homecoming and return rush, a wider range of roads becomes congested. While the government encourages people to use public transportation to avoid accidents from long-distance motorcycle travel, many still choose motorcycles.

The video captures the outskirts of Jakarta on December 25, 2023. During the Christmas to New Year period, many people take extended vacations and travel from the capital region to suburban or distant hometowns.

Despite traffic congestion, many people choose—or are forced to choose—motorcycles for their lower travel costs and the freedom they offer compared to trains and buses.

Electric Motorcycle Exhibition and Parade in Indonesia

Watch the Video

As the total number of motorcycles continues to grow, so too does the number of electric motorcycle owners. According to research by Deloitte and Foundry, the number of electric motorcycles in Indonesia increased 13-fold over the two years from 2020.

Held in November 2023, the INABUYER EV EXPO 2023 was Indonesia’s largest exhibition on electric motorcycles and their ecosystems. It was organized by the Ministry of Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises, the Indonesian Electric Motorcycle Industry Association (AISMOLI), and the Indonesian Retail Association (HIPPINDO).

The video shows a parade of electric motorcycles held as part of this event. Participants included electric motorcycle manufacturers and “bengkel konversi” shops that convert conventional motorcycles into electric ones. More than 80 riders took part in the parade, promoting environmentally friendly electric motorcycles.

The Popularity of Motorcycles in Indonesia

In urban areas such as Jakarta, road congestion is a serious issue, and the government is working on countermeasures. However, with growing household incomes and an increasing number of families able to own multiple vehicles, traffic alleviation is not progressing smoothly.

Although public transportation systems are being improved, they remain inadequate. Some people who once tried commuting by train have returned to motorcycle commuting due to overcrowded trains.

Knowing that roads are often congested, many people find motorcycles more practical than cars due to their maneuverability. Under these circumstances, motorcycles continue to be the most realistic means of transportation for many Indonesians.