News

Hold on to your weave – Joburg just got way faster

Uber Moto is here, and it's giving speed, thrill and a sprinkle of chaos. But are Joburgers actually ready to hop on?

Liesl Bartlett
Written by
Liesl Bartlett
City Editor, Time Out Johannesburg & Pretoria
Uber Moto in Johannesburg
Uber
Advertising

If you woke up to a mysterious WhatsApp from Uber about motorbikes – no, you’re not dreaming. Uber Moto is here, and it's revving into more parts of the city.

Yes, really. Uber’s motorbike ride option (which was only available in the Western Suburbs of the Johannesburg CBD) has officially expanded its coverage area across Johannesburg, promising a faster, cheaper way to get from A to B, or at least to the mall before they stop serving breakfast. With fares reportedly starting as low as R18, this could be the answer for budget-conscious commuters, students, and serial plan-hoppers who are always “on the way” but never actually moving.

But let’s be honest: this isn’t just about getting there on time. It’s about the ride-or-die energy. The wind in your hair (or in your bonnet), the city blurring past you, the awkward “do I hold on or not?” moment, and the very real possibility of having to straddle a bike in skinny jeans. It’s giving adrenaline. It’s giving “I’m alive.” It’s giving… potential helmet hair.

Sure, zipping through Joburg on two wheels comes with its quirks; this is a city known for its unpredictable weather and the occasional pothole surprise. But with trained drivers, safety gear provided, and a focus on short, convenient trips, Uber Moto is designed to keep things smooth, quick, and surprisingly efficient. You might not want to haul your full Woolies shop on the backseat just yet, but for quick dashes and beating traffic, it’s a total game-changer.

There’s something undeniably thrilling about the idea. It’s bold. It’s fast. It’s a little wild. In other words, it's so Joburg. So would you do it? Would you cling to the back of a stranger’s scooter in peak traffic on Jan Smuts just to save a few bucks and maybe feel something again?

Whatever your answer, one thing’s for sure: the streets just got spicier.

RECOMMENDED

🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg
🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg
🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg
🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg

Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram!

You may also like
You may also like
Advertising