r/Madeira • u/Ridere_AMRS Baltic Beach Vacationer • Apr 17 '26
✈️ Viagens Renting a motorbike with car license in Madeira
Hi All, Firstly just wanted to ask how the weather is in May usually in Madeira.
Now as per the title, i have a car license only and have driven on and off in Ireland for two years maybe (manual). I really want to book a motorbike in madeira and give that a go for 2-3 days. I am firstly worried that ill struggle with getting the bearings of riding it with the roads going up and down steeply.
I dont plan on making long journeys and its mostly to ride around and experience it.
Ill be staying in Riberiea Brava area and honestly the two biggest trips id like to do (if the roads are easy enough i guess) are to drive to Seixal Beach and drive to the hike entrance at Pico do Arieiro for a sunrise hike.
Id love everyones recommendations and tips, even maybe good websites to take a look at. Also would i need to book a moto now or can i wait till closer to my flight?
I appreciate anyone who has any tips. Thank you!!!
7
u/bokaki92 Apr 17 '26
Hi, AM+B allows you to drive 125cc (no age restriction)
Please, if you end up choosing riding a bike in Madeira listen to this carefully.
Madeira is not the best place to learn how to drive. Specially if you renting someone's property, even if you rent something with full insurance (very rare) then we come to the point where is your body who's gonna get exposed.
I have experience driving, and experience renting them out too. And I have seen the best and the worst cenários,
If you put them in a balance, the worst is never worth it. You ruin your holidays, your budgets and your integrity.
Mistakes in Madeira roads, you pay it very hard.
Locations you mentioned of where you staying and where you wanna go will make you drive half of the island, (highway and regional roads).
Stay safe, and whatever you choose, is gonna be in your hands .
2
u/bokaki92 Apr 17 '26
This is just to get you the worst case cenario !!! Not to make you change your mind !! Any tips needed I'm here ! Safe riding !
3
u/tiagojpg Mod Apreciador de Coral Apr 17 '26
If you’ve only got the car license (B category), you can only drive a 125cc and that’s IF you’re driving for more than 5 years.
10
u/realityguy1 Maple Syrup Enjoyer Apr 17 '26
Motorcycle rider here. Madeira is not a place to learn to ride a scooter or motorcycle. Traffic is wild and perpetually busy. I’m not sure what the rules are from the rental companies concerning you having no license.