Riding a two-wheeler in India requires more than just skill—it demands a “survivalist” mindset. With unpredictable traffic, varying road conditions, and the presence of stray animals or pedestrians, defensive riding is your best tool.
Here are the best practices for riding safely on Indian roads:
1. Safety Gear (The Non-Negotiables)
* ISI-Marked Helmet: Ensure your helmet is BIS/ISI certified. It should be full-face and fit snugly. Replace it every 5 years or after any significant impact.
* Closed Footwear: It is technically a traffic violation in many Indian states to ride in flip-flops or sandals. Wear sturdy shoes or boots to protect your ankles.
* High Visibility: Indian roads can be dimly lit. Wear bright or reflective clothing (like a neon vest or a jacket with reflective strips) to ensure larger vehicles can see you.
2. Defensive Riding Techniques
* Assume You Are Invisible: Ride as if other drivers haven’t seen you. Avoid the “blind spots” of trucks and buses; if you can’t see their side mirrors, they definitely can’t see you.
* The 2-Second Rule: Maintain a gap of at least 2–3 seconds from the vehicle in front. On highways or in rain, increase this to 4–5 seconds to account for sudden braking.
* Cover the Brakes: In congested city traffic, keep one or two fingers resting lightly on the brake lever. This reduces your reaction time during sudden “surprises” like a pedestrian darting out.
* Scan 200 Meters Ahead: Don’t just look at the bumper in front of you. Look far ahead to spot potholes, speed breakers (which are often unmarked in India), or gravel early.
3. Navigating Indian Traffic Quirks
* Overtake with Caution: Always overtake from the right. Use your horn or a flash of your “pass” light to alert the driver ahead, but don’t assume they will yield.
* Watch for “Wrong-Way” Drivers: It is common to encounter vehicles coming from the wrong side on service lanes or the edges of highways. Stay alert near intersections and U-turns.
* Cornering & Gravel: Sand and loose gravel are frequent at the edges of Indian roads. Avoid leaning too hard into turns where the road surface looks dusty, as it can cause the front tire to wash out.
* Animal Awareness: In rural or semi-urban areas, cattle and dogs are common. If you see an animal, slow down significantly, their movements are unpredictable.
4. Pre-Ride Checklist
Before you start your commute, a quick 1-minute check can prevent accidents:
| Tires | Look for worn-out treads or low air pressure (low pressure makes handling sluggish).
| Brakes | Ensure both front and rear brakes have a “bite” and aren’t feeling spongy.
| Lights | Check indicators and the brake light. Visibility is your primary defense.
| Fuel | Avoid riding on “Reserve” to prevent the engine from stalling in heavy traffic.
5. Essential Legal Compliance
* Documents: Always carry a digital or physical copy of your Driving License, RC, Insurance, and PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificate.
* Pillion Safety: Only one pillion rider is allowed. They must also wear a helmet and sit astride (not side-saddle) for better balance.
https://youtu.be/HczmAOc16-Q?si=zlt-JwrI276XrI_J
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DR12n2ECNqg/?igsh=dHI3MDltbjlnZzd0
