Important Bike Riding Tips for Teenagers

Legal Age of Riding a Bike for Minors in India

In India, as per the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, you must be above 16 years of age to ride a gearless motorbike of up to 50 CC and to ride a motorbike with gear, you must be 18 years & above. Additionally, to legally ride your bike, you must have at least a third-party bike insurance policy to protect yourself from third-party financial and legal liabilities.

7 Bike Riding Tips for Teenagers

The main focus while riding a bike is always safety. Take a moment to read some vital riding tips if you are a teenager and planning to buy your first bike-

1. Obtain the Right Driving License

   A DL is a legal certificate issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) permitting you to ride a bike on the Indian roads. It includes a registration number and a passport size photo giving the identity of the bike owner. Make sure you have the correct and valid DL. There is different DLs for bikes with gear and bike without gear. Therefore, obtain proper DL before taking the bike on the road.

2. Buy a Two-wheeler InsurancePolicy

   If you are learning to ride a bike or have just learned bike riding, now it is time to think about the right two-wheeler insurance cover. Several bike insurance companies offer insurance cover to young riders at the most affordable prices on the internet.

   Also, you can visit the official website of Policybazaar Insurance Brokers Private Limited and compare multiple two-wheeler insurance policies that offer both third-party bike insurance and comprehensive cover.

3. Choose a Suitable Bike Model

   Choosing a bike model depends upon your body type, height, and weight. You must check the bike's size and convenience while riding it. Avoid fuzzing over the muscular body and heavy engines. You can also go for a test ride and check comfort over the style before buying it.

4. Keep Mandatory Documents Handy

   Make sure you have a copy of necessary bike documents handy while riding a bike. You must have a valid driving license, registration certificate, PUC certificate, and at least a third-party bike insurance policy. Failing to show these documents when the traffic police ask for them, you might have to pay hefty fines.

5. Avoid Riding Recklessly and Maintain Speed Limit

   While riding a bike, it is your responsibility to drive safely to avoid accidents. Rash riding or over speeding tends to increase the chances of losing control and might lead to severe accidents. For safe riding, follow the appropriate speed limit mentioned on the route. By maintaining the applicable speed limit, you can reduce the accident severity in case of a road crash.

6. Never Miss a Scheduled Bike Servicing Session

   Proper maintenance of your bike can be a reward to you. It will significantly enhance the longevity of your bike. On a regular interval, you must take your bike for servicing and check & change the components required. Keep your bike in good condition by servicing it timely.

7. Follow Traffic Rules

   Jumping red light, riding the wrong side, not following zebra crossing rules, overtaking vehicles from the incorrect side, rash driving, performing stunts, driving under the influence of alcohol, etc., are some common traffic rules violations by a teenager. As a responsible driver, avoid these and obey all the necessary traffic rules.

4 Things to Avoid While Riding a Bike

If you are a beginner and learning to ride a bike, there is a list of the certain things that you must consider to mitigate the associated risk-

1. Riding Without Helmet

   In India, wearing a helmet is compulsory. It protects the rider's face, skull, and eyes and offers protection against severe injuries. Generally, teenagers avoid wearing a helmet. Therefore, as a rider, you must buy a helmet that fits you well.

2. Performing Stunts

   Usually, teenager performs dangerous stunts like wheelies, stoppies, burnouts, etc. This might sound exciting but involves a huge risk that causes damage to the bikes and injuries to them and the others.

3. Drunk Driving

   Under the Motor Vehicle Act, 2019, you are liable to pay a fine of Rs 10,000 or might end up in jail for six months in case of a first offense of drunk driving. For the second offense, you can face imprisonment of up to two years or a hefty penalty of Rs 15,000 or both. Therefore, it is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and you must avoid it.

4. Calling or Texting While Riding

   Teenagers do have a habit of texting or calling while driving, which is a public concern. Avoid using your cell phone while riding a bike. If there is an emergency, you can stop the bike on the roadside and take your call.

Conclusion

As a young rider, you must practice enough before hitting the main roads. Riding a bike comes with distinct challenges and responsibilities. Also, do not forget to follow all the above-mentioned tips for becoming a pro rider. Ensure you have the right two-wheeler insurance policy to protect it from several associated risks.