How To Ride a Bike: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Two-wheelers can be considered as an economical invention, due to their affordability, low maintenance cost, and easy control. They are one of the most common means of transport in India. But their increasing number has also led to an increase in the number of accidents. Reasons such as rash driving, lack of experience, and no understanding of road safety are some of the major causes of these accidents. If you have recently bought a two-wheeler, it is important to first properly learn how to ride it and secure it and along with your own self, with the help of two wheeler insurance. Along with mastering the art of bike riding, there are ways to make your bike riding experience smoother.

Essential Components of a Two-Wheeler

Before we get to how you can learn to ride a two-wheeler as a novice, it is essential that you understand the basic parts involved in the process:

- Clutch

Located on the left side of the handlebar, it helps in initiating power supply to the engine.

- Accelerator

Also known as the throttle, is the controller for the power directed towards the rear wheel of the two-wheeler. Is located on the right side of the handlebar.

- Gear shift

Placed on the lower left side of the footrest, it is the lever used to increase or decrease the gear of the two-wheeler. This is done in tandem with the clutch.

- Brake levers

The rear brake lever is placed on the lower right side of the footrest, whereas the front brake lever is placed in front of the accelerator on the handlebar.

- Power Switch

Also called known as the ignition switch, it is the switch used to electrically start the vehicle. It is located on the right front side of the handlebar, next to the accelerator.

- Kickstart pedal

Located on the lower right side of the footrest, next to the rear brake level, the kickstart pedal, like the name suggests, kickstarts the two-wheeler via manual means.

- Fuel tap

A fuel tap is a three-directional tap located below the fuel tank. When turned on, the fuel flows from the tank to the engine carburettor. When turned off, the flow turns off. The reserve mode is used to utilise the fuel situated at the bottom of the fuel tank when fuel level is low. Mostly, a key is required to access the fuel tap.

How to Ride a Bike as a New Rider?

As established in the beginning, one of the main USPs of a two-wheeler is its easy controls. As they are not that complex, virtually any one can learn to ride a two-wheeler within days. If you have purchased a new or used two-wheeler and wish to learn how to ride it, follow this 5-step guide:

- Turning On The Two-Wheeler

First, insert the key in the keyhole to unlock the two-wheeler’s handle and to put in the ignition mode. Insert the fuel tap key in the keyhole below the fuel tank and turn the fuel tap towards the ‘ON’ direction to allow the flow of fuel to the engine. Now, you have 2 options to power on the vehicle: Either you can use the power switch, or you can manually kickstart the two-wheeler. You need to hold the clutch while turning on the two-wheeler as it helps in engaging the electric current from the battery to power the engine.

- Adjust The Gear

Before you switch on the vehicle, do remember to first put the two-wheeler in neutral mode, i.e., switch the gear to the neutral position. Once the gear is in neutral, power on the vehicle with your preferred option. In older bikes, putting the gear on neutral was necessary to start it. The newer bikes allow the rider to start their bike even if it is on the 1^st or 2^nd gear, although it depends on the make and model.

- Get The Bike Moving

After you adjust the gear, slowly release the clutch. You will notice the bike moving forward a little. As you are releasing the clutch, slowly raise the throttle (accelerator) of the bike. This will change the position of the bike from stationery to moving. Do not raise the accelerator quickly as it might move the bike too fast, and you might lose control. It could also cause the bike to stop working momentarily. Once the clutch has completely released, slowly raise the accelerator. Change the gear to 1^st to get it properly moving.

- Give The Correct Indicators

If you are riding the bike during evening or night, it is important to turn on the headlight of the bike. Not only does it help you with visibility in terms of what’s ahead on the road, but it also indicates other vehicles about your presence, which reduces the possibility of an accident. You can find the headlight switch on the right-hand side of the handlebar, next to the throttle. Another important feature are the indicators. If you are changing lanes or taking a turn, it is important to give the correct indicator. This signals the vehicles next to you or behind you that you are changing the lane or taking a turn.

- Brake At The Right Time

An important aspect, when learning to ride a bike, is to apply the brakes properly and efficiently. How and when to apply brakes is something that should not be overlooked. When you are riding your bike and a speed breaker appears in the way, do not apply the brakes suddenly. First, slowly release the accelerator, then slowly press the brakes. Once you cross the speed breaker, slowly release the brakes, press the clutch, and lower the gear. Now raise the throttle to go ahead.

Safety Measures While Riding a Bike As a Beginner

1. Wear Protective Gear

Always wear a helmet, gloves, knee, and elbow guards to protect yourself from injuries.

2. Check Your Bike

Before each ride, ensure that your bike is in good condition – check the brakes, tires, lights, and oil levels.

3. Start Slow

As a beginner, avoid high speeds. Gradually build your confidence and control over the bike.

4. Practice in Safe Areas

Start riding in quiet areas or parking lots before venturing onto busy roads.

5. Keep a Safe Distance

Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to give yourself enough time to react.

6. Follow Traffic Rules

Always obey traffic signals, speed limits, and road signs to ensure your safety and others.

7. Use Both Brakes

Practice using both the front and rear brakes smoothly to stop safely.

8. Be Visible

Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially when riding at night or in poor visibility conditions.

9. Avoid Distractions

Keep your phone and other distractions away while riding. Stay focused on the road.

10. Ride Defensively

Always be aware of your surroundings and anticipate the actions of other drivers.

Additional Tips To Remember As A New Rider

Along with the 5-step guide mentioned above, you can take a note of the following tips as well to have a smooth learning and bike-riding experience:

1. Look for bikes that have an anti-locking braking system in them. ABS greatly reduces the chances of the wheels locking at the time of braking, thus reducing the chances of mishaps.
2. Secure your two-wheeler with an insurance policy. When you are purchasing a new vehicle, make sure you purchase the policy as well. It is mandatory under the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988 to have at least third-party insurance for your vehicle. You can always carry out a comprehensive vs third party two wheeler insurance comparison before purchasing the policy.
3. Install safety devices on your two-wheeler to ensure it is properly secured from any unwanted incidents that could potentially harm it.

Conclusion

While it is natural to feel nervous when wanting to learn bike riding, but with the above guide, you can make those fears go away. Do keep in mind that it is a constant learning process, and while you’re making a note of things, do remember to buy insurance for your bike. You can get a rough quote by using the two wheeler insurance premium calculator before you purchase your policy.

FAQ

Is riding a motorcycle difficult for beginners?

Learning to ride a motorcycle can be easy for most people with proper guidance and practice. It largely depends on the rider's comfort level and confidence in handling the bike.

How much time does it take to learn motorcycle riding?

The time required to learn motorcycle riding varies by individual. On average, beginners can learn basic riding skills in 2-4 weeks with regular practice and instruction.

Can I shift gears on a motorcycle without using the clutch?

It is not recommended to shift gears without using the clutch as it may damage the transmission and other components of the motorcycle. Always use the clutch for smoother gear changes and to avoid long-term wear on the bike. *Standard T&C apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.