6 things motorcycle owners should do after getting their license

Finally got your motorcycle license after all your lessons and tests and can’t wait to hit the road? We know that dream of zooming down the streets, with the wind blowing past but before getting there, there are some safety tips that you might want to adopt to ensure a smooth journey.

Riding a motorcycle, or any vehicle for that matter, may come with a few risks and sometimes a simple precaution goes a long way in preventing any accidents. Read on to find out 6 things you should do as a new motorcyclist, or even as a seasoned rider, to protect yourself on the road.

1. Get appropriate gear

You may not look as cool as the people on a bike chase in action movies but having the full ensemble of protective gear protects you from further injuries if you’re ever in an accident. This includes your helmet, gloves and jacket. The more you’re covered up, the less chance of injury. If Singapore’s weather makes wearing a jacket uncomfortable, you can also always opt for more breathable materials such as mesh.

Did you know? There is also a requirement for the type of helmet that you must wear on the roads. According to the Road Traffic Act, it is compulsory to wear a TUV SUD PSB-approved helmet and failure to do so may result in a S$1,000 fine, 3-month jail sentence or both.

With the right helmet, it should also fit correctly on you and leave room for ventilation.

2. Wear the right attire

This refers to your choice of clothes and footwear. As a motorcyclist on the road, your visibility to cars is much smaller. Other drivers may not be able to spot you as easily and it makes you more vulnerable to accidents. Wear suitable clothes that can protect you and keep you visible on the road, avoid dark coloured clothes and go for brighter shades instead. For shoes, flip-flops pose as a hazard as they’re not made for riding at all. Shoes that are a good option provide a great grip on your bike and allow for better balance.

3. Adopt a bike check habit

Now that you’re prepared, your road partner has to be prepared for the journey too. Having a regular inspection routine is only necessary in making sure that your bike is in a safe condition and prevents accidents that could’ve been avoided with a check. Tire conditions such as air pressure and tread, lights and turning signals are some areas that you should have the habit of paying attention to.

For a full checklist, refer to the acronym T-CLOCS. What does it stand for exactly? Tires, controls, lights, oil and fluids, chassis, stands.

4. Practise riding

Especially after first getting your license, getting used to the traffic on the main road may seem like a significant change to the road conditions you learnt in. And if you are also unfamiliar with your new bike, it may be best to first take it to a quieter road to practise. It takes time and patience to get comfortable and be smooth with turns, starting and stopping, and changing lanes.

Barely noticeable hazards such as puddles, pebbles and even potholes can sometimes cause accidents too so being familiar with riding and having control of your bike helps serve as an extra precaution as well.

5. Learn about ensuring a pillion passenger’s safety

In addition to riding by yourself, having a passenger to share your love on the bike is one of the exciting things about getting a motorcycle license too. It is important to be aware of the proper safety measures and rules for a pillion passenger because chances are they know less about riding on the bike than you do.

Riding as a pillion passenger can be a scary experience for some, especially if it’s their first time too. Here are some things you can do to help make the experience for both of you smoother and enjoyable:

• Firstly, your passenger has to be at least 10 years old and wear a licensed helmet.
• Communicate to them what they’ll feel such as when you speed up or make turns.
• Teach them how to properly get on the bike; they should also sit astride on a fixed seat behind the driver.
• When reaching stops, slow down and give yourself more braking distance between you and the vehicle in front. Having more stopping distance helps prevent abrupt stops that may result in the hitting of your helmets.
• After a 10-minute ride, find a safe and convenient location to stop and check in with your passenger to ensure that they’re doing okay
• At the end of the ride, find out about their experience for you to improve their next ride or your “hosting” skills on your bike.

6. Get coverage

Now you’re mostly prepared for your adventures on the road. You’re just missing one thing – insurance. Being financially protected for accidents may not seem like a top priority now but with it, you get the chance to fully enjoy your rides on your motorcycle with a peace of mind. Should any unforeseen accidents occur, owning motorcycle insurance would help reduce the stress that’s associated with it and it also saves you heavy out-of-pocket costs for medical bills, property damage and other charges.

For a comprehensive plan like FWD Motorcycle insurance, you enjoy 24-hour roadside assistance in case of a breakdown, unlimited legal liability cover if you accidentally hurt someone and the plan even rewards you for being a safe driver. It offers a lifetime NCD guarantee and a 2-year premium guarantee with an additional 5% discount if your current NCD is 20%! Have another trusted rider on your bike? Have the option to have them covered as well.

You can easily get a quote here and be covered within minutes. For special ongoing promotions, check out the FWD website too.