Turning 18? Here is our beginner's guide for riding a bike 20^th September 2021

Are you turning 18 soon and just starting your life as a motorcyclist? Most of the teens are filled with enthusiasm and hold a different excitement for bike riding. That's quite obvious as the adrenaline rush of turning 18 keeps the soon-to-be-adults on the tips of their toes.

Are you excited to start riding but don't know how to get started? In this space, we've put together some key points to ponder on if you're a newbie rider, also acquainting you with important terms like basics of riding, bike maintenance, and bike insurance.

1. Choose your model and learning space wisely:
As you start anew, you must choose the best-fit model. It should not be too bulky or heavy; rather, it should be modest, lightweight, and easy to handle for you. After all, you will be riding the bike, so you cannot compromise convenience over physical appearance. The second step is to choose the learning space where you can start riding. It is not advisable to get on the heavy traffic roads of India for a beginner. So, better choose the roadway with flattened or open ground, less bumpy, and with fewer vehicles around; this will help you make your learning process hassle-free.

2. Learn about the components & functionalities:
You cannot glide on the road directly without having basic knowledge about your bike. Be proficient with the parts of your bike and understand their working. You should know the fundamentals like the clutch lever, gear shifter, rear brake, throttle, side stand, accelerator, etc. Anytime, good research can help you uncover the unknowns, and this information can surprisingly come to your rescue if your bike faces any faults.

3. Buckle up and get started:
Get on your bike, make sure you side up the middle stand first. Give ignition, roll on your clutch, and adjust yourself in a comfortable driving position. Shift your gear in neutral, wait for half a minute, and let the engine start properly. You need to be alert at all times and keep the clutch, gear shift, brake and accelerator in rhythm to allow the bike to move smoothly. If you are not confident with your driving skills, take some learning classes from a certified motor training school.

4. Maintenance of the bike:
Like any other machine, your bike also needs the care to provide you with a smooth and safe riding experience. You can do this by scheduling an appointment for complete bike servicing and washing that will boost the performance of your bike. In addition to it, just as life insurance covers your damages, your bike needs BIKE INSURANCE to shield it from any mishap. But are all the two-wheelers owners meeting their responsibility of safe riding? Unfortunately, many of them don't even hold a valid two-wheeler insurance policy. So always be a responsible rider and carry a valid insurance policy for your bike.

5. Ace it with practice:
Be it a bike or any other activity, 'practice' is the key to excellence. Practice safe driving and follow all the traffic rules when on roads. Always wear safety gear like helmets, gloves, bumper jackets before hopping on your bike. Remember that the greatest pleasures can be enjoyed only if you’re safe and sound.

6. Be alert – potholes ahead on the road:
Be a responsible driver, and don’t let the excitement turn sour due to recklessness while driving on bumpy roads or ignoring potholes and stray animals on the roads. There are no magic tips to manage these situations. The only solution is to avoid them by slowing down your speed. There is no other secret.
Lastly, keep patience along with your enthusiasm, and don't rush while learning. You'd look cool on a bike, but always remember that life is more important than the ride. Follow the rules and invest in an ideal bike insurance policy for the comprehensive security of your asset.

Click HERE to know about the bike insurance plans that are best for you.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.