For experienced riders getting around Florianópolis, a rental motorcycle can be practical for commuting, studying, errands or exploring the island. The right choice depends on your route, riding experience, luggage and the weather. These four benefits can help you compare a motorcycle with a car.
1. Lower fuel consumption
Small-engined motorcycles can use less fuel than a combustion-engine car over the same distance. Published, identifiable tests are more useful than treating one figure as a promise for every motorcycle.
In Duas Rodas’ Yamaha Neo 125 test, published in April 2022, combined fuel economy was 41.37 km/l on gasoline. The Yamaha Fazer 150 review published by Motociclismo in May 2021 reported averages above 35 km/l on gasoline. These describe the tested models, not Bumba fleet measurements or guaranteed figures for another year or version.
Speed, acceleration, hills, load, passengers, maintenance, traffic and fuel affect actual consumption. Divide distance by km/l to estimate litres. For an illustrative 100 km trip, a motorcycle achieving 40 km/l would use 2.5 litres; a car achieving 12 km/l would use about 8.3 litres. Both rates are calculation assumptions, not a controlled comparison of those vehicles.
2. Convenient urban travel
A compact size and easier manoeuvring can make a motorcycle convenient for solo journeys with several stops. This can suit travel between home, work, shops and services when you do not need to carry bulky items.
Motorcycles still encounter traffic. Signals, junctions, queues, roadworks and congestion affect journeys, so arriving sooner is not guaranteed. Allow enough time, keep a safe distance and obey signs. Rain, wind or poor visibility may make another form of transport a better choice.
3. Easier parking
A motorcycle takes up less space and may make it easier to find designated two-wheel parking. Look for a permitted space near your destination and check time limits, charges and local signs before leaving the vehicle.
Under the Brazilian Traffic Code, Article 48, paragraph 2, motorcycles park beside and perpendicular to the kerb unless signs say otherwise. Do not park on pavements, pedestrian crossings or cycleways. A smaller vehicle does not mean unrestricted or free parking.
4. Rental that may cost less than a car
A motorcycle rental may cost less than a car rental, but compare the same dates and each offer’s conditions. Bumba’s monthly motorcycle plan costs R$ 850 per month for up to 2,000 km per month. Compare that with a current car quote for the same period.
Check included mileage, the available model and the total quoted price. Allow for fuel and possible parking costs in your travel budget as well. A car may still be more suitable for a group or large suitcases, even when its rental price is higher.
Need a motorcycle for the month? Read about the monthly motorcycle plan and rental requirements.