The types of motorcycles available in Indonesia are highly diverse, ranging from practical automatic motorcycles to environmentally friendly electric motorcycles.
Understanding different types of motorcycles and how to choose the right one can help you find the most suitable vehicle for your daily needs while supporting more efficient and comfortable mobility.
Besides being relatively more affordable than cars, motorcycles can also navigate various road conditions and help riders save time amid urban traffic congestion.
Today, automotive manufacturers offer various motorcycle options with different characteristics. Each category is designed to meet diverse user needs, from daily commuting to environmentally friendly electric-based transportation.
Read Also: Fleet Electrification in Indonesia: Business Strategies Toward Low-Emission Transportation
Understanding Various Types of Motorcycles in Indonesia
Before choosing the right vehicle, it is important to understand some of the most commonly used types of motorcycles in Indonesia.
1. Underbone Motorcycle (Cub)
Underbone motorcycles, also known as cub motorcycles, are among the most well-known motorcycle types in Indonesia. These motorcycles are recognized for their high durability and ability to handle various road conditions.
Some advantages of underbone motorcycles include:
- Fuel-efficient consumption.
- Relatively affordable maintenance costs.
- Easy-to-use semi-automatic transmission.
- Suitable for short to medium-distance trips.
Due to their reliability, underbone motorcycles remain a popular choice for users who need a simple yet durable vehicle.
2. Electric Motorcycle (Electric Vehicle)
As environmental awareness increases, electric motorcycles are becoming more popular in Indonesia. Electric motorcycles produce no exhaust emissions and operate much more quietly compared to conventional motorcycles.
The advantages of electric motorcycles include:
- Environmentally friendly.
- Lower operating costs.
- Simpler maintenance.
- Supporting the national energy transition program.
The development of charging infrastructure and battery swapping systems has also made electric vehicles easier to use for daily activities.
3. Automatic Motorcycle (Scooter)
Automatic motorcycles have become the most popular type of motorcycle in Indonesia today. Their ease of operation is the main reason many people choose them for daily transportation.
Characteristics of automatic motorcycles include:
- No need for manual gear shifting.
- Practical for urban roads.
- Equipped with spacious storage compartments.
- Comes with various modern features.
Automatic motorcycles are highly suitable for students, office workers, and families who need practical vehicles for daily mobility.
4. Naked Bike
A naked bike is a type of sport motorcycle commonly used for daily activities. This motorcycle has a bold appearance with an exposed frame and engine compared to fully-faired sport bikes.
The advantages of naked bikes include:
- Responsive engine performance.
- More comfortable riding position.
- Suitable for various road conditions.
- Generally more affordable than full-fairing sport motorcycles.
With a combination of performance and comfort, naked bikes are an attractive option for users who want a sporty motorcycle without sacrificing daily functionality.
5. Sport Motorcycle
For riders who enjoy high performance and aggressive designs, sport motorcycles are an ideal choice. This type of motorcycle usually features:
- More powerful engines.
- Manual clutch systems.
- More aerodynamic riding positions.
- Responsive handling.
Sport motorcycles are often chosen by automotive enthusiasts who prioritize riding experience and a more premium appearance.
6. Scooter Motorcycle
Scooters are motorcycles commonly found in many Asian countries, including Indonesia. They usually have compact designs and are easy to control.
The advantages of scooters include:
- Compact design.
- Comfortable for urban use.
- Efficient fuel consumption.
- Easy to ride for various groups.
These characteristics make scooters one of the preferred choices for daily commuting.
Tips for Choosing the Right Motorcycle for Daily Needs
Choosing the right type of motorcycle will provide comfort while helping reduce long-term costs. Here are some factors to consider before purchasing a motorcycle.
1. Prioritize Riding Comfort
Since motorcycles are used almost every day, comfort is an important factor. Consider the following aspects:
- Ergonomic seating position.
- Seat height suitable for your body posture.
- Comfortable suspension for various road conditions.
2. Pay Attention to Supporting Features
Additional features can improve comfort and safety during trips. Some features worth considering include:
- Spacious storage.
- Optimal braking systems.
- Informative instrument panels.
- Smart key systems.
3. Understand Your Daily Activities and Mobility Needs
Everyone has different needs when using a motorcycle. Consider these factors:
- Daily travel distance.
- Traffic conditions you frequently encounter.
- Need to carry goods.
- Frequency of riding with passengers.
4. Choose a Practical and Functional Motorcycle
For daily use, practical motorcycles are usually the best choice.
A lightweight motorcycle that is easy to maneuver will be more comfortable for navigating busy urban roads. In addition, a functional design can make various activities easier for users.
5. Consider Energy Efficiency
Efficiency is an important factor when choosing a vehicle. Energy-efficient motorcycles can help:
- Reduce operating costs.
- Support long-term usage.
- Reduce the frequency of refueling or charging.
This factor is becoming increasingly relevant as the mobility needs of Indonesian society continue to grow.
Read Also: The Potential of Electric Cars in Indonesia: Opportunities, Challenges, and the Future
Choose the Right Motorcycle Type and Support the Future of Mobility with TBS
The wide variety of motorcycle choices in Indonesia provides flexibility for people to select vehicles that match their needs.
From durable underbone motorcycles, practical automatic motorcycles, powerful sport motorcycles, to environmentally friendly electric motorcycles, each type offers its own advantages.
As electric vehicles continue to develop in Indonesia, TBS Energi Utama through Electrum also plays a role in building an integrated electric mobility ecosystem.
In 2021, TBS together with GoTo Group established PT Energi Kreasi Bersama (Electrum) to develop Indonesia’s electric vehicle ecosystem, covering vehicle assembly, battery technology, battery swapping infrastructure, charging stations, and financing services.
Electrum continues to achieve various important milestones. In February 2022, President Joko Widodo officially launched an electric vehicle ecosystem collaboration involving Electrum, Pertamina, Gogoro, and Gesits.
In the same year, Electrum supported the G20 Summit and B20 Forum in Bali by providing 50 electric motorcycles, 11 shelters, and 150 Gojek driver partners.
Support for electric vehicle development became stronger when Electrum secured US$15 million in funding in December 2024 from the Asian Development Bank, Australian Climate Finance Partnership, and Bank DBS Indonesia.
This funding is being used to expand the electric vehicle fleet and battery swapping network, which is projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 123,000 tons annually.
In October 2024, Electrum launched the H3i electric motorcycle at IMOS, offering charging options at home or through its battery swapping network. Then in 2025, Electrum introduced its latest model, Electrum H1, to provide more choices for Indonesian consumers.
By 2025, Electrum had operated more than 6,000 active electric motorcycles, supported by more than 370 Battery Swapping Station locations in Jakarta. This infrastructure serves more than 19,000 battery swaps every day and has helped avoid more than 3,200 tons of CO₂ emissions.
These achievements demonstrate TBS’s long-term commitment to supporting cleaner, more efficient, and sustainable urban mobility in Indonesia.
