The Risky Behavior of International Tourists Riding Motorcycle in Bali

Traffic accidents involving motorcycles in Bali are the highest among other modes of transportation due to the high proportion of motorcycles in the transportation structure especially in urban areas. In the Province of Bali, when riding a motorcycle, a tourist must focus on his own safety. Therefore, one of the problems of road safety is the risk of accidents on the highway faced by international tourists while on vacation in Bali. 

In this study the effect of psychosocial variables was investigated on the riding behavior of 350 international motorcycle riders while on vacation in Bali. The analysis was performed using the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Structural Equation Model (SEM) methods.

The results of the analysis show that sensation seeking combined with various demographic characteristics, for example, age, sex, and motorcycle riding experience, indicate a feeling of freedom and riding pleasure that can influence risky riding behavior such as violating traffic rules and speeding. International male tourists compared to women riding motorcycles in Bali tend to be involved in sensation seeking and violating traffic and speed regulations. However, male motorists who are older and more experienced in riding, have safer behavior. In other words, younger male tourists have the potential for riskier riding behavior compared to older male tourists. 

However, this study has not been able to fully explain whether the risky riding behavior is caused by international tourists facing a variety of environmental conditions on the highway or because of their riding behavior in their home country. This study is a preliminary study which is expected to provide new insights into motor vehicle riding behavior variables to complement campaign activities and traffic safety education especially in tourist destinations.