Question 1

What is the "Motorbike Rental Damage Claim" scam in Lombok?

Accepted Answer

Rental shops around Senggigi and Kuta Lombok photograph bikes before handing them over but dispute the footage after return, claiming unreported damage. Passport-as-deposit arrangements are common and give operators significant leverage over tourists. Record a timestamped video of every angle of the bike and send it to yourself immediately. Use a cash deposit rather than your passport. Check that the shop has a verifiable physical address and positive recent reviews from other travellers.

Question 2

What is the "Motorbike Rental Damage Claim" scam in Lombok?

Accepted Answer

Rental shops on Lombok and the Gili Islands photograph scooters after return and claim fresh damage. The practice mirrors Bali, but with less tourist infrastructure to support complaints. Shops often hold significant cash deposits and refuse to return them in full. Video document the entire bike before riding, timestamping the footage and emailing it to yourself. Use a cash deposit rather than leaving your passport. Rent from shops attached to established guesthouses with accountability.

Other Tourist Scams in Lombok

Motorbike Rental Damage Claim

Motorbike Rental Damage Claim

Experienced a scam here?