The fact that Bali has an embarrassingly inadequate public transportation system has been public knowledge for years. There are only costly taxis, cheap but uncomfortable minivans on certain routes, and rented car and motorbikes.

Over the last three months, however, for tourists wanting to enjoy the island's beauty there is now an affordable alternative transportation means -- the motorbike taxi.

Unlike a regular taxi, which charges the client according to a meter, the motorbike taxi has a flat price. At only Rp. 10,000 (US$1), you can go to anywhere on the island.

"Motorbike taxis started to operate three months ago. The idea is to offer tourists an alternative transportation means," Ketut Sudiarta, a staffer at the motor taxi office in Jl. Padang Galak, Sanur, told The Jakarta Post here on Thursday.

He said the motorbike taxi could be reserved by calling (0361)-7967575.

"No matter where you want to go, from Denpasar to Ubud, or from airport to Denpasar the tariff is exactly the same."

A taxicab from the airport to Denpasar usually costs somewhere between Rp 70,000 to Rp 90,000.

Sudiarta said the fee included insurance for both motorbike taxi drivers and the passenger.

"Besides the regular taxi, we also have a one-day tour package costing Rp. 150,000. The tour takes place from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.," he said.

He said there were only 100 units of motorbike taxis currently operating on the island.

"So far we have received a good response from consumers because using a motor taxi is more efficient, faster and cheaper. It suits the needs of tourists with limited budgets," he said.

"We will add 50 more units next month," he said, adding that they were also preparing to open a new office in Ubud.

Besides the tour package, they also offer packages for students and working people.

"It only costs Rp.250,000 a month and consumers can decide the schedule -- from their houses or offices -- so they do not need to call the call centre anymore," he said.

He added many motorbike taxi operators were university students wanting work experience.

"It is easy for them to organize their schedules since this job does not require them to spend much time in office," he said.

He said they had provided all their drivers with cell phones so that they could be called at anytime. The drivers can leave from any point of departure without having to return to base first.

Indra Hariawan, 19, said he joined the Indonesia motorTAXI Corp. around two weeks ago and so far he has enjoyed the job.

"It is not bad if you want to have a new experience. Besides I like to travel a lot and this job does not require me to be in an office," he said.

He said he also did not have to spend his time waiting on the roadside looking for customers like the common ojek. All he had to do was stay at home and wait for a call from the company's operators.

He added that he had many colourful experiences as a motorbike taxi operator. Once a customer tipped him Rp 40,000.

"That is way more than the price set by our office," he said.