Two-wheelers are a convenient and affordable mode of transportation for many people, especially women. They offer more flexibility, mobility and independence than public transport or cars.
In this article, we will share some useful two-wheeler driving tips for ladies that will help you enjoy your ride and avoid accidents. We will also discuss the benefits of having a two-wheeler insurance policy and how to choose the best one for your needs.
Summary of How to Ride a Two-Wheeler Safely for Women
- 1. Choose the Right Two-wheeler
- 2. Wear Protective Gear
- 3. Get a Driving Licence and Register Your Bike
- 4. Handling Harassment:
- 5. Insure Your Bike
- 6. Check Your Bike Condition Before Riding
- 7. Stay Alert and Follow Traffic Rules
- 8. Look Before Turning
- 9. Night Riding:
- 10. Riding Posture:
Here are some tips on how to ride a two-wheeler safely for women:
1. Choose the Right Two-wheeler
Whenever we talk about bike safety tips for ladies, the first piece of advice is to choose a bike that suits you. Instead of buying a bike primarily for its looks, buy one that you can control and ride easily.
Some factors to consider while choosing a two-wheeler are:
– The seat height: You should be able to put both feet flat on the ground when seated on the saddle.
– The weight: You should be able to lift the bike if it falls or move it around without straining yourself.
– The engine capacity: You should choose a bike that has enough power to meet your requirements but not too much that it becomes difficult to control or maintain.
2. Wear Protective Gear
One of the most important two-wheeler driving tips for ladies is to wear protective gear while riding. This includes:
– A helmet: A helmet is mandatory by law for all two-wheeler riders in India. You should wear a helmet that fits you well, has proper ventilation and meets the safety standards (ISI mark). You should also fasten the chin strap securely and replace the helmet if it is damaged or old.
According to a study by the World Health Organization (WHO), wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of death by 42% and severe injury by 69% in motorcycle crashes.
– Clothing: You should wear clothing that covers your arms and legs while riding. This will protect you from sunburn, dust, wind and injuries in case of a fall or skid. You should avoid loose clothing that can obstruct your view or get caught in the wheels or chain.
– Shoes: You should wear comfortable flat shoes instead of heels or strappy sandals while riding. This will help you grip the pedals better and prevent your feet from slipping or getting injured.
– Eyewear: You should wear sunglasses or goggles that protect your eyes from dust, glare, insects and debris while riding. They also improve your vision and reduce eye strain.
3. Get a Driving Licence and Register Your Bike
Another essential two-wheeler driving tip for ladies is to get a valid driving licence and register your bike before riding.
4. Handling Harassment
Unfortunately, women riders may face harassment on the roads. It’s important to stay calm and not engage with the harasser.
Noting down the offender’s vehicle number and reporting it to the police can help in taking action against them. Carrying a personal safety device or learning self-defence can also provide added security.
5. Insure Your Bike
Having two-wheeler insurance is also an essential document for your bike. As per the Motor Vehicle Act, of 1988, third-party insurance is mandatory for all two-wheelers in India. This covers the legal liability arising from any injury or damage caused by your bike to a third party (person or property).
However, third-party insurance does not cover any damage or loss to your own bike or yourself. For that, you need comprehensive insurance, which covers both third-party liability and own damage. Comprehensive insurance also covers theft, fire, natural calamities, and other risks.
6. Check Your Bike Condition Before Riding
One of the most important two-wheeler driving tips for ladies is to check your bike condition before riding. This will ensure that your bike is in good working order and prevent any breakdowns or accidents.
You should check the following aspects of your bike regularly:
– Tyres: You should check the air pressure, tread depth and condition of your tyres. You should inflate them as per the manufacturer’s recommendation and replace them if they are worn out or damaged.
– Brakes: You should check the brake pads, discs and cables of your brakes. You should ensure that they are functioning properly and smoothly.
– Lights: You should check the headlights, tail lights, indicators and brake lights of your bike.
– Oil: You should check the oil level and quality of your bike. You should ensure that it is sufficient and clean.
– Battery: You should check the battery voltage and condition of your bike. You should ensure that it is fully charged and not corroded or leaking. You should also clean the terminals and connections regularly and replace the battery if it is old or weak.
7. Stay Alert and Follow Traffic Rules
One of the most crucial two-wheeler driving tips for ladies is to stay alert and follow traffic rules while riding. This will help you avoid any collisions, violations or fines.
You should follow these traffic rules while riding:
– Follow the speed limit and do not overspeed or overtake recklessly.
– Keep to the left side of the road and use the right side only for overtaking.
– Use indicators or hand signals before turning or changing lanes.
– Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you and do not tailgate.
– Do not ride on the wrong side of the road or on footpaths or cycle tracks.
– Do not ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
– Do not ride while angry, tired or distracted by mobile phones or music.
8. Look Before Turning
One of the most common causes of accidents involving two-wheelers is turning without looking.
You should follow these steps before turning:
– Plan ahead: Decide where you want to turn well in advance and choose the appropriate lane accordingly.
– Signal: Use indicators or hand signals to indicate your intention to turn at least 100 meters before reaching the turn.
– Look: Look over your shoulder and check your mirrors for any vehicles behind you or on your blind spot before turning.
9. Night Riding:
Riding at night requires extra caution. The vehicle’s headlights and taillights should be functioning properly to ensure visibility. Poorly lit areas should be avoided if possible, and the rider should be extra vigilant for pedestrians and animals on the road.
10. Riding Posture:
A correct riding posture can provide better control over the vehicle and reduce fatigue during long rides. This includes sitting upright, keeping both feet on the footrests, and holding the handlebars firmly but not too tightly.
