A Scooter Monkey - Solo Travellers’ Best Choice for Motorbike Rental in Sabah
There are so many places to explore around Sabah. Yet, the existing public transportation system may not be very established in these areas. Long distance buses and mini vans are convenient for traveling between cities and districts. If you want to travel within the city/district, taking the public transports might be tricky and usually involves long waits and uncertainties. Taxis and e-hailing services would be costly if you are moving a lot, and they may not be available in rural areas.
I researched motorbike rental companies in Kota Kinabalu and around Sabah, and found ‘A Scooter Monkey’ offers the cheapest price with excellent bikes. The good things did not stop there, as their services were outstanding, and the owners were very helpful and friendly. They were quick to assist me with questions and troubleshooting during my trip through the phone. They also lend out items such as phone holders and containers for extra petrol without charge. If you are still in doubt, just take a look at their flawless 5-stars Google reviews!
Travelling Around Sabah On Bike
My initial plan was to hitchhike around Sabah, but due to the Covid-19 situation, renting a bike is a more responsible option. I started off my 30 Days Trip Around Sabah plan with a 125cc Yamaha Solariz from ‘A Scooter Monkey’. I was given a great discount for renting it long term, it cost me only RM25 per day! When I had to shorten my trip due to the virus outbreak on the East Coast, they heartily refunded me the unused days.
The Perks of Renting a Motorcycle for Traveling
You get absolute freedom to move around, without having to worry about being stuck in a place without a means of transportation! During my trip around Sabah, I rode from a village to another, parked my bike and camped in spectacular campsites such as Tegudon Tourism Village, Polumpung Melangkap View Camp Site, and Tawai Rainforest Camp. I also saved a lot of cost going for hikes and tours without having to pay for additional transportation fees, just because I can go there by myself using the bike.
In general, the roads in Sabah are relatively easy to ride with a motorbike. The highways were easier for me as they were less confusing and more straightforward than the city roads. In popular and touristy spots, parking is not a problem, as you could almost always find a spot for your motorbike while the cars are circling around looking for a place to park.
What if it rains, you ask? Well, put on a good raincoat for yourself and a raincover for your backpack, and you’re good to go! But the sun is so strong, you say. Just cover yourself up with a tube scarf, a pair of gloves, and a lightweight long sleeve shirt, such as KALENJI SUN PROTECT Men’s Running T-Shirt. Of course, there are downsides of riding a motorbike. You don’t get to enjoy the luxury of being in an air-conditioned car. You have to balance on two wheels, and you don’t have metal frames protecting you so you have to be alert riding all the time. It can be physically and mentally straining, so make sure you get frequent rest breaks, stay hydrated, plan your daily distance, and ultimately, drive safe and be alert while enjoying the ride. Damn, I miss the sense of freedom and the wind blowing around my body during the ride!
On A Side Note...
They also have a branch in Sandakan, plus another one in Tawau is opening soon. Other than providing rental services as the main business (p.s. They also have super bikes for rent), the company’s field of service is extensive. From supplying and delivering fresh meat, seafood and various products, to reflexology. Their are even building an eco farm in Pantai Dalit! For more information or to get their services, please contact the owner, Mr Bonny, via WhatsApp (+6011-1531 0401) or email (mrvun@ymail.com).
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*Captain Planet passing by* Remember, please take care of our environment, and please don’t destroy the Nature. Leave no trash behind and take back only photos and memories (and also some trash if you can). Walk on the designated path and stay in the middle as much as you can, so that the exposed soil doesn’t spread/corrode further. BE ONE WITH NATURE *flies away*
Have Branch in Sandakan
Correct, and a Tawau branch would be opening soon