How to Ride a Scooty?

Before you hop on your scooter to take it for your first spin, you must ensure that you are equipped with the essential requirements. This is because scooters come with minimal safety features when compared to cars that have an airbag to protect the driver in the event of an accident. Considering the exposure that one has while riding a two-wheeler, here are the two most important things that scooter riders need before they learn to ride a scooter:

• Bike Insurance Policy:The Motor Vehicles Act makes it imperative for every rider to have a third-party bike insurance policy to cover damages to third-person or vehicles in case of an accident. However, it is always recommended to extend this cover for self-safety. Your insurance for 2-wheeler can act as a financial safety net in the occurrence of an unforeseen accident. The insurance for 2-wheelers is designed to ensure that both you and your scooter are stress-free when you ride.

• Helmet:According to the Motor Vehicles Act, every rider must wear headgear for safety while riding any kind of motorcycle. However, this is more than merely a rule because a helmet acts as a protective shield that secures the head from sustaining a severe injury.

Considering the rising number of road accidents in India every year, the aforementioned requirements are imperative for beginners as well as experienced riders. This is why before learning scooty driving, every rider must invest in a good quality helmet and a comprehensive bike insurance policy.

Now that we are acquainted with the essential requirements, let us learn how to ride scooty on the road.

As mentioned earlier, riding a scooter is very similar to riding a bicycle. Once you know how to balance yourself on two wheels, the rest is a cakewalk. As there are no gears that one has to manage on a simple scooter, the only two things riders have to consider are the accelerator and the brake. Without further delay, here is a guide detailing how to ride scooty on the road:

1. Mount your vehicle with both your hands firmly planted on the bars of the scooter. Ideally, both your feet should touch the ground. But if you are short, you can simply lean slightly forward so that it becomes easier to maintain the balance.
2. Usually, the scooter is rested on its side stand, and before you start riding, ensure that the stand is removed by kicking it using your left foot. You might often find that people forget to remove their side-stand, so it is important to make it a habit to check that your stand is removed every time you start your bike. Forgetting to do so might lead you to lose your balance while riding.
3. Insert the key in your scooter’s keyhole and turn the key until the bike is in the “on” mode. The newer bikes might need you to twist the key more than once because the second turn is for unlocking the storage of your scooter.
4. Now, ignite and start the engine by holding the left brake and pressing the “start” button on your bike.
5. As the scooter rumbles to a start, you can release the brakes and slightly turn the accelerator on the right hand. As the torque builds up, your scooter will start to move forward. When you initially turn the accelerator, it is important to do it slowly and cautiously to gauge the speed of your bike.
6. As the bike slowly picks up speed, you can lift your feet from the ground and place them on your scooter's deck.
7. To make a turn, you will only have to lean on the side you wish to make a turn to, and the handle will automatically turn in that direction. However, if your speed is slow, you will have to turn the handle with your hands. Learners might find it comfortable to have their foot near the ground while making a turn to not lose balance.
8. To slow your speed or stop the bike, you only need to apply the brake. It is advisable to rest a few fingers on both brakes when you are riding.

And that’s all! In eight simple steps, you now know how to drive a scooty.

Simply knowing scooty riding is not enough – especially for learners. Here are some important safety measures that riders must bear in mind:

• When you own a bike, you must learn the importance of its maintenance. Every rider needs to ensure that all the parts – whether it is the brakes or the side mirrors – are functioning correctly and running smoothly.
• When you are riding, it is important to keep your focus solely on the road. Distractions can be fatal.
• A helmet is not optional. It is an important safety gear when you are riding.
• Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drunk driving often leads to accidents.
• Don’t exceed the speed limit. You might not understand the point when you lose control of your vehicle.

It is an exciting experience to own and ride a scooter. Cutting through the harrowing traffic while feeling the gentle breeze can be calming. However, it is crucial not to neglect your safety when you ride a scooter. Aside from noting the scooty driving tips, riders must also invest in comprehensive insurance for 2-wheelers.

Before purchasing insurance, one must compare two-wheeler insurance policies to find the right fit and avoid any unpleasant surprises in the future. The bike insurance policy by Tata AIG comes with a choice of seven unique add-ons to strengthen the cover. With features such as an easy claim process and no claim bonus, insurance holders can ensure both safety and financial security with the Tata AIG insurance for 2-wheeler.