7 Things to Keep in Mind While Riding Your New Bike

7 Practical Tips That You Need to Understand While Riding Your New Bike

From understanding your bike's features thoroughly to having an adequate bike insurance policy, every small action contributes to your safety and riding experience. Here are 7 significant tips to make every ride worthwhile:

1. Understand Your Bike's Features Thoroughly

   Why it matters:

   Every bike comes with different functionality, such as engine transmission, braking systems, clutch sensitivity, and gearshifts. In the current times, bikes often come with advanced tech like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), traction control, riding modes, and digital consoles. Hence, you should be aware of all the bike's parts and their functions before heading out.

   What you should do:

   • Read the user manual to get insights into the bike.
   • Ask your dealer for a demo of key features.
   • Practice basic controls like braking, turning, and shifting gears in an open area before heading onto busy streets.

   Pro Tip: Before your first long ride, test how the bike reacts to sudden stops and sharp turns in a controlled environment like a parking lot.

2. Wear the Right Gear

   Why it matters:

   Wearing the proper riding gear protects you not only from several fatal injuries but also gives you a sense of confidence while riding. These gears can make a difference between a few scratches and a trip to the hospital.

   Gear Checklist:

   • Helmet - ISI certified.
   • Jacket - preferably with armor.
   • Gloves - improve grip and protect hands.
   • Boots - ankle-length and sturdy.
   • Pants - reinforced or armored options are best.

3. Perform a Pre-Ride Inspection Every Time

   Why it matters:

   A minor issue like a loose bolt or an under-inflated tyre can become a huge problem when you are stuck in the middle of a journey. Make it a habit to check key components before every ride.

   What to inspect:

   • Tyres - air pressure and tread.
   • Brakes - responsiveness and fluid levels.
   • Lights & signals - ensure visibility.
   • Mirrors - properly adjusted.
   • Chain - lubricated and tensioned.

   Try this: Next time you're heading out (especially if you are going on a long ride), spend just 5 minutes on this checklist and you'll be surprised how much more confident you feel.

4. Follow Traffic Rules & Ride Defensively

   Why it matters:

   Unlike cars, bikes are prone to crashes and can lead to major injuries. Being defensive on the road can save your life.

   Tips for smart riding:

   • Always signal before turning or switching lanes.
   • Avoid blind spots, especially around larger vehicles.
   • Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
   • Never weave in and out of traffic.

   Did You Know?: Major bike accidents happen due to lane-switching errors. Hence, check the lanes before you switch.

5. Stay Alert & Avoid Distractions

   Why it matters:

   You're more vulnerable on two wheels. Staying alert isn't just about avoiding obstacles, it's about reading traffic flow, anticipating other drivers' moves, and reacting quickly.

   What to Avoid:

   • Using your phone while riding (even with Bluetooth).
   • Listening to loud music.
   • Riding when drowsy or distracted.

   What to Do Next: On your next ride, consciously track how many times you have to adjust or react suddenly. This builds awareness and reflex.

6. Understand Your Bike's Fuel Economy & Maintenance Schedule

   Why it matters:

   Knowing how far your bike can go on a full tank helps you plan rides better. Maintenance keeps your bike in top condition and prolongs its life.

   Proactive steps:

   • Track your fuel efficiency and identify patterns.
   • Stick to your first 3 servicing schedules without fail as they're the most crucial.
   • Use only manufacturer-recommended oils and parts.

   Try This: Keep a small logbook or use a biking app to track service history, mileage, and fuel fill-ups.

7. Never Skip on Bike Insurance

   Why it matters:

   This is one of the most crucial yet most overlooked aspects of owning a bike. Accidents, theft, and natural calamities don't come with warnings. Having a comprehensive bike insurance policy not only protects your finances but is an essential part if you own a two-wheeler.

Why Bike Insurance is More Than Just a Legal Requirement?

Before exploring the benefits of having a bike insurance policy, it's important to first understand the types of policies offered by bike insurance companies in India:

Types of Two-Wheeler Insurance:

• Third-Party Bike Insurance - Mandatory by law, covers damage to others.
• Comprehensive Bike Insurance - Covers theft, natural disasters, personal accidents, and third-party damages.

Benefits:

• Financial security in case of accidents or theft.
• Cashless repairs at network garages.
• No-Claim Bonus (NCB) rewards for claim-free years.
• Roadside assistance is included in many plans.

Why is it Important? Imagine this: you park your bike in a public lot and return to find it missing. Without bike insurance, the loss is entirely yours to bear.

Things to Check Before Buying Bike Insurance Online

• The claim settlement ratio of the insurer.
• Coverage limits and exclusions.
• Add-ons like zero depreciation cover, engine protection cover, roadside assistance cover, etc.
• Customer support and network garages.

Buying Tip: Compare 2-wheeler insurance policies online before you buy at Policybazaar.com. Here you can do a side-by-side comparisons based on various aspects, including customer reviews.

A Points That Make You a Better Rider Over Time

• Practice slow-speed riding—mastering balance is a lifelong skill.
• Take breaks on long rides—mental fatigue leads to mistakes.
• Join riding groups or forums to stay updated on safety practices, gear reviews, and events.
• Respect your machine—don't push it too hard during the break-in period (usually the first 500-1000 km).