Motorcycle License.
A motorcycle license is required to operate a motorcycle in the Fiji Islands. If you only have a car license, you are not permitted to ride a motorcycle in the Fiji Islands. If you injure yourself riding a motorcycle and don't have the correct license, your travel insurance will not cover expenses including medical evacuations. You must carry your motorcycle license with you at all times when riding. If your license is not in English, you must also have an International Licence that is translated to English. Make sure you read your Travel Insurance PDS (Product Disclosure Statement) as some require an International licence for insurance to be valid, even if your original licence is in English. More information is available by contacting the LTA
Travel Insurance
It is imperative that you have travel insurance prior to travelling to the Fiji Islands. Make sure your insurance is comprehensive and covers motorcycle accidents and medivacs. Some areas of Fiji are extremely remote.
Hospitals and local health care. Public hospitals, private hospitals and health centres are located in major towns and cities including Suva, Nadi and Lautoka. In rural areas, healthcare options are much more limited. Small health centres or nursing stations provide basic medical care but they may lack equipment and some medications. For serious injuries or illnesses, patients may need to be transferred to hospitals in larger towns which can be a significant distance away and sometimes requiring helicopter transport. Riders should be aware that in some remote regions, reaching a hospital quickly can be challenging due to the lack of developed roads and transport infrastructure.
Protective Gear: Wearing the right protective gear is essential for safety on and off the road. At a minimum, riders must wear an ECE 22.06-certified helmet that fits snugly and comfortably. Helmets can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries in the event of an accident. Wearing a helmet is mandatory with Police strictly enforce this law. Riders should wear gloves to protect their hands that offer good grip while able to slide on road surfaces. Boots should cover the ankles and provide sturdy support, preventing injuries in the case of a fall. Protective clothing like jackets and pants with padding or armor in key areas (elbows, knees, shoulders, back) can absorb impact and protect from scrapes, while riding glasses or visors are important to shield the eyes from dust, insects, and debris, especially in open-face helmets. Carry waterproof or rainproof gear, including jackets, pants and boots, to prepare for sudden rain.
Riding Skills and Experience: Not all riders have the same level of experience and it’s critical for you to assess your ability before taking on certain routes. For beginners, sticking to well-paved, low-traffic routes is ideal while more experienced riders can tackle challenging terrains like dirt roads, steep inclines, or areas with sharp turns. We recommend that riders practice handling their bikes in a controlled environment before setting off on long journeys, especially if they are unfamiliar with the specific motorbike model. Understanding how to shift gears smoothly, brake effectively without skidding, and maintain balance at low speeds are crucial skills. It's also worth mentioning that advanced riders might benefit from additional training on off-road riding, emergency braking, and swerving techniques.
Local Traffic Laws: Understanding and following local traffic laws in Fiji is crucial for safety. While many laws are similar to those in other countries, there are key differences and specific regulations to be aware of:
- Driving on the Left: In Fiji, vehicles drive on the left side of the road. Riders must always keep left unless overtaking and should be cautious of oncoming traffic especially at roundabouts or intersections.
- Speed Limits: The speed limit is typically 50 km/h in urban areas and 80 km/h max on highways. However, on rural roads conditions may require slower speeds. It's typical to ride around 30km/h or slower on rural roads, especially on narrow, winding gravel roads. Always follow posted signs.
- Speed Bumps: Speed bumps are common in villages and residential areas to reduce traffic speeds and protect pedestrians. These bumps can be unmarked and may be difficult to spot. Always reduce your speed when approaching villages. Even if no speed bump signs are visible, expect that they may be present. Hitting a speed bump at high speeds can cause loss of control and damage to the bike and serious injuries.
- Alcohol Limits: Fiji has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol for drivers with provisional or learner licenses, while the legal blood alcohol limit for fully licensed riders is 0.08%. Given the risks and local enforcement, it’s best to avoid alcohol entirely if you plan to ride.
- Licensing Requirements: Riders must hold a valid motorbike license. Foreign licenses are accepted, but it's recommended to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) as well. Make sure your license covers the type of bike you're riding as different classes of licenses may be required for different engine sizes.
- Helmet Laws: Wearing a helmet is mandatory for both riders and passengers at all times. Police strictly enforce this law, and failure to comply can result in fines. Use a ECE 22.06 certified helmet.
- Mobile Phone Use: It is illegal to use a mobile phone while riding unless using a hands-free device. Penalties apply for violations so avoid distractions by keeping your phone stored away or mounted properly for navigation.
- Overtaking: Riders should overtake only when it's safe and permitted. Be cautious of overtaking on narrow roads as they can be winding with limited visibility particularly in rural areas.
- Right of Way: Be mindful that local drivers may not always follow right-of-way rules strictly especially at roundabouts or in heavy traffic. Be defensive in your riding and always assume the unexpected.
Wildlife and Livestock: In rural areas, riders are highly likely to encounter wildlife or livestock crossing the road. This can happen at any time of the day. Large animals such as cows, horses, or goats can cause severe accidents if hit, so riders need to slow down and be vigilant in all rural area. If you see any animal while on your journey, slow down to a crawling pace to not spook the animal. Riders should also note that smaller animals, like dogs, birds or mongoose may dart onto the road unexpectedly. You must ride within a speed that allows you to stop quickly in all these scenarios.
Road Hazards: Road conditions can vary drastically especially in remote areas. Riders should be aware of common hazards such as gravel, potholes, mud, or uneven surfaces which can cause the bike to lose traction. In areas with heavy rainfall, roads may become slippery or flooded, requiring riders to slow down. Do not cross flooded roads. Sharp turns, blind corners and steep inclines are also dangerous if approached at high speed or without enough caution. Riders should always maintain a safe following distance from vehicles in front of them, allowing time to react to unexpected obstacles.
First Aid and Emergency Contacts:
Carrying a basic first aid kit is essential when riding in the Fiji Islands. Your kit should include adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, adhesive tape, pain relievers, and any personal medications. For more serious injuries, include items like a triangular bandage, tweezers, and scissors. In remote areas, medical help can be far away, so being prepared for minor injuries is crucial.
Emergency Contacts:
- Fire and Rescue: 911
- Medical Emergencies: 911
- Police: 917
Save these numbers in your phone, and keep a written copy on hand. It’s also a good idea to have a local SIM card for reliable communication. Riders traveling in remote regions should inform someone of their route and expected return time.
Fuel Availability:
Fuel stations in Fiji are frequent along the Queens and Kings Highway that connects Nadi, Suva, and Lautoka but can be sparse in rural and remote areas. Always start your journey with a full tank and always fill up at the closest fuel station before heading inland.
Night Riding:
Riding at night in Fiji poses several risks. Visibility is reduced due to limited street lighting, and rural roads can be particularly dark. Wildlife and livestock, such as cows, goats, and dogs, are more likely to wander onto roads after dusk. Road hazards, like potholes and unmarked speed bumps are harder to spot at night. We recommend that you do not ride at night.
Group Riding Safety: Riding in a group can be fun, but it requires proper coordination to ensure safety. Here are some tips:
- Spacing: Maintain a safe distance between bikes to allow for reaction time.
- Communication: Establish clear hand signals to convey directions and warnings.
- Ride Rules: Agree on a set speed, planned stops and how to handle emergencies. Ensure all riders are aware of the route and meeting points.
- Leader and Sweeper: Assign an experienced rider to lead the group and another to stay at the back to assist slower riders.
Always prioritize the group’s safety over speed or maintaining formation in hazardous conditions.
Maintenance and Checks:
Before setting off, perform a thorough check of your motorbike to prevent breakdowns or accidents. Key areas to inspect include:
- Tires: Check for proper inflation and inspect for wear or damage.
- Brakes: Ensure both front and rear brakes are functioning correctly.
- Lights: Test headlights, taillights, and turn signals for visibility.
- Oil and Fluids: Confirm adequate oil levels and check for any leaks.
- Chain and Sprockets: Ensure the chain is well-lubricated and at the correct tension.
- Fuel: Start with a full tank, especially for long or remote routes.
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