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Motorcycles are cool and fuel-efficient compared to driving a car, especially in urban areas where traffic jams are inevitable. Commuting by motorcycle is a much faster and hassle-free option. Not to mention, it is the more affordable means of personal transport.
However, the misconception of motorcycles being dangerous stems from the fact that accidents relating to motorcycles re much more prominent than car crashes. When well taken care of, a motorcycle can actually turn out to be the safest mode of transport. Plenty of riders is able to steer clear of accidents by diligently following basic motorcycle practices.
Here are the top five motorcycle safety tips you need to know before you hit the road.
Motorcycles come in different shapes and sizes as well as types. It is important to select the right bike for you so that you can expect the bike to function the right way. As different bikes cater to different purposes, it is crucial to look beyond the exterior of the bike when deciding.
To find what works best for you, it is important to check the overall power of the bike, its wet weight and power-to-weight ratio. The list is not exhaustive as choosing a bike personally to you is as tedious as choosing the right clothes for you. You want to make sure the bike does exactly what you expect it to do and not get caught by surprise on the road.
The best way to make a judgment is by testing the bike. Never skip out on this part as a motorcycle is an investment, so you want to make sure you have checked all your boxes.
Biking gear is not merely for aesthetic purposes, and it is much more important than you think. It is essential to have the proper riding gear so that you are well-protected on the road. A full-face helmet is the most important gear to own and global research has found that helmets reduce the risk of death by 37% and reduce the risk of head injury by 69%.
Depending on your travelling conditions, you may want to wear more protective gear such as an abrasion-resistant jacket or gloves. The former is usually made from materials that help riders avoid cuts, gravel rash and friction burn from contact with the road, whereas the latter help protect your hands from serious injury, offer added grip strength for better control of your handlebars, and dampen vibrations from the road.
This may be a no-brainer, but you may be surprised to hear how many accidents stem from a curious glance off the road. It is extremely important to keep your eyes on the road so that you can anticipate any incoming curves and corners.
Motorcyclists need to be more vigilant of gravel or unstable road conditions such as potholes. It is also crucial to be mindful when crossing roads in case of any speeding vehicles and passers-by.
There is no barrier between the rider, motorcycle and the surroundings. Therefore, it is integral that you plan a safe and smart ride to avoid unexpected turns of the weather. In Malaysia, it is always important to prepare for the rain. You should always bring rain gear along and it is better to stop under bridges to avoid the downpour.
It is advised to not take the risk riding in the rain as roads can be slippery. With unexpected downpour, it is best to prioritise your own safety and to prevent any damages to your bike.
It is important that your bike is in top condition every time you hit the road. You should check for faulty conditions on the bike and remedy it as soon as possible.
Always check the tyres, engine oil and brake fluids before you start riding your bike. Never leave your bike’s condition unattended for long as this may attract a series of unfortunate events. You should service your bike at service centres regularly or whenever it is needed.
Once you have made your observations, it is time to schedule a servicing appointment at any Shell Advance MotoCare Express (SAMCE) site. BonusLink users can earn up to 500 extra points by spending at Shell. All you have to do is to buy one Shell Advance from Shell, change the engine oil at SAMCE and fill petrol or buy anything from Shell with a minimum purchase of RM10.
With as low as 100 Bonuslink Points, customers can redeem special treats in-store including popular favourites such as Yeo’s canned drinks, Coca-cola Klasik, Nescafe Tarik, Himalaya Salt candy and Shell cash vouchers (100pt for RM1).
The SAMCE caters specifically to the needs of motorcycle riders. It aims to provide professional motorcycle servicing without the need to pre-schedule or wait in line and at a more affordable price. Riders can have their motorcycle engine oil change, change the oil filter, clean air filter, lubricate and service chain and sprockets and many more preventive maintenances at a fraction of a cost with free safety checks.
Most sorts of bikes, including larger CC bikes, can have their oil changed at SAMCE. Also, the 5-point inspection performed at an oil change applies to both big bikes and Kapcais.
We at iMotorbike took the liberty to head over the Danau Desa Shell at Jalan Klang Lama and got the Shell Advance Long Ride lubricant.
As it is a SAMCE site, we were offered to change our motor oil. The mechanics at the Shell centre even checked the lights, motor chain, and other necessary compartments for free, to ensure the motorcycle is in great condition.
We didn’t need to worry about waiting in the heat as there was an airconditioned waiting area for customers. We also spent RM10 on oil and beverages in SHELL Select and was awarded 500 BonusLink Points. Using the points, we managed to redeem some goodies too! Just within 15 minutes, the motorcycle service was completed, and we hit the road right after.
List of the 26 SAMCE sites can be found here.
What are you waiting? Customers can now sign up for BonusLink for free at any Shell station nationwide or register by downloading the BonusLink App from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.