10 Tips on Renting and Using Motorbikes Safely

Looking to rent a motorcycle? Do you know how to buy the best atv tires or how to inspect top motorcycle parts before renting? Motorcycles are a favorite of many, given that they’re a cheap alternative to car rental. Bikes can also easily maneuver in traffic jams, making them an excellent choice when speed is a requirement. Motorbikes are a popular form of transportation in Thailand.

The downside of motorcycles is that they don’t have seatbelts, or an exterior to absorb force from a crash. It is, therefore, paramount to observe only the strictest road safety rules to get to your destination safely. Many are, however, ill-equipped on the right knowledge on how to safely use the bikes.

Here are some tips on that you should familiarize yourself with before paying for that rental bike:

  1. Get a license before renting the bike to ensure insurance pays out in case of an accident. A license also ensures that you get the right riding skills depending on your country.
  2. Do a thorough inspection of the bike to make sure that the brakes, tires, engine, gear are all other parts are in proper operation.
  3. Never ride your bike under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Being intoxicated is the leading cause of road accidents.
  4. Ensure that you drop your gear whenever in traffic to make acceleration easy and safe.
  5. Wear conspicuous riding gear, and always look for an escape route should you find yourself in a tight situation, e.g., an oncoming car or pedestrian, pothole, ice or debris. Avoid flip flops as they can make your feet slip on the pedals.  Light clothing is a no-no. Leather is the best choice because it shields your skin from injuries should you skid.
  6. Always stay clear of exit routes and changing lanes.
  7. Always stay on the clear side of the road, and avoid fixing yourself between vehicles.
  8. When using roundabouts or crossing intersections, use large vehicles for cover.
  9. Maintain a proper tire pressure. Under pressure and overpressure can interfere with how the bike handles a load, durability or handling. If you intend to carry, a passenger raise your tire pressure (2to 3 psi in the rear and 1 to 2 psi in the front)
  10. Avoid riding in bad weather because rain or snow reduce your visibility and reduce your margin for error.

Now that you’re familiar with motorcycle safety tips, what should you do should a bike part get damaged while under your care?

You would need to replace the part before returning the bike. Otherwise, you would have trouble returning it to the company. The rental company would slap you with hefty fines for part repair or replacement.

Of all motorcycle parts, tires are the ones that will often experience the highest amount of damage, and will often need replacement.

Here are some tips on how to choose the best ATV tires

Selecting a bike tire type depends on a user’s specific needs, and the right size to meet those needs. Is your bike a dual-sport (ADV), dirt, cruiser or street? What is your riding style?

  1. Check the code designators that manufacturers often print on the side of the bike.
  2. Decide on whether to settle for radial or bias-ply tires. Radial often offers better traction but have a short lifespan, while bias-ply have a reduced grip, but last longer.

If you don’t have a deep understanding of top motorcycle parts, have a knowledgeable person like a mechanic to help you decipher the jargon for you.

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