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So is it wise to ride very far by yourself(say 30-40 miles).Dont know where but id like to get out and stop and poke around the shoreline.Im not worried about cars or driveing on wrong side.I was wondering if you have to watch out for ambush or moped jacking ?When ive came with people they never want to go explore or are scared to drive in JA.
It's pretty safe .... good advice to have a cell phone with you, tho .....
I don't know that its the wisest thing to do especially if you are fairly new to the area...on the driving side of things mopeds do not easily keep up with traffic and I personally would hesitate to take one out on the highway (i.e., the beach road or the road to Sav la Mar...). Another concern would be getting turned around and lost. And then there are the bad minded people out there who will see you on a moped and pin you as a mark potentially. I remember a few years back a couple was riding out on West End Road, past the West Ender and they were robbed. So I'd think about going out alone...find one or two more people to explore with you, perhaps one of them should be either a resident or a "veteran" that knows the area and can take you places that they know well for safe exploration. Have a fun vacation!
There are no mopeds for rent in Jamaica, you can rent scooters or motorcycles. Driving in the countryside can be very pleasurable, but i think you have to be a very confident rider. You must always be watching the road for potholes or other potential dangers, and this isn't that easy when you might be distracted by the incredible scenery. Don't discount the fact that you are only riding a scooter, it is a very serious matter riding a bike of any size on a Jamaican road. Jamaicans don't drive on the "wrong side" of the road, they drive on the left! This is no small thing, because if you are accustomed to driving on the right, one lapse in attention could turn out badly. Whatever you do, DO NOT encourage someone that is hesitant to drive a scooter in Jamaica to do so. Their instincts are correct. You alone know your own skill level, and there is a chance your skill will be tested. (Not a judgement, but someone using the words moped and wrong side of the road might not have a true appreciation of what it takes to stay safe while riding a motorbike in Jamaica) Enjoy Jamaica and stay safe!
I agree that it might be wise to find a companion for your venture. We rented scooters in Feb. and ventured past the Westender, it was fun to get to some places that we otherwise probably not made it to. We were approached within seconds by someone on a motorcycle, when we stopped, no problem mon. However I was glad there were three of us. As I have read on this board many times, trust you insticts, and bring your common sense. Cheers!
Thanks for replys......your awnsers were my gut instinct.Ive been to JA 14x just never ventured pon the road and ive had 5 street bikes.Looks like i may have talked another newbe into comeing for the first time.A girl cousin (one of the wild family members) she'll ride a scooter -i guess we just wont wonder too far .