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6 Motorcycle Safety Tips for Novice Riders in Singapore

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6 Safety Tips for New Motorcycle Riders in Singapore

Having invested in the motorcycle of your dreams, you are probably looking forward to catching the wind in your hair. While owning a motorcycle is more affordable, faster and fuel efficient than cars, it’s generally considered more dangerous. Safety should always be priority, so we’ve made a list of safety tips to follow when riding your motorcycle.
 

Safety Tip #1: Wear appropriate riding gear

You will need the right gear to protect you from the hot tar roads, cold winds, rain and debris, at the very least. The right gear will also reduce the severity of injuries in the event of an accident. Here are a few must-haves:

  • Motorcycle helmet (to protect your eyes and face) 
  • Riding gloves
  • Jacket with shoulder and elbow paddings (preferably in bright colors or with reflective tape)
  • Boots with non-skid soles

Safety Tip #2: Inspect your motorcycle before you ride

You can’t be too careful when it comes to riding a motorcycle, so you should routinely check your motorcycle each time before you ride. 

Here’s what you should look out for:

  • Tyres: Ensure the pressure is just right as low pressure may cause a blowout, while over-inflated ones will not have a good grip. Remember to check for any cracks, bulges, or signs of wear in the tread too.
  • Lights: Check all the lights including headlight, tail-light and signal lights and ensure that they are functioning.
  • Clutch and throttle: Make sure these are working smoothly. The throttle should snap back when released.
  • Brakes: Always test both front and rear brakes. It should feel firm and hold the motorcycle still when fully applied.

Nowadays, purchasing an action-camera in Singapore that is mountable on your helmet may be a good idea too. It may not look cool but will prove extremely useful in case there is a vehicle accident dispute.
 

Safety Tip #3: Look out for blind spots

Always assume that large vehicle drivers or truck drivers can't see you due to the limited coverage of the mirrors on their vehicles. It’s always a good idea to stay behind or ride up to the front of nearby four-wheeled vehicles. Also beware not to get stuck between two larger vehicles.
 

Safety Tip #4: Set the right mindset

Keep your eyes wide open, be aware of your surroundings and watch out for accidents. Knowing your limits as well as your motorcycle’s limits can save your life. 

Other common traffic offenses in Singapore that motorcycle riders should avoid include:

  • Speeding
  • Riding drunk
  • Tailgating
  • Changing lanes without signaling
  • Riding in adverse weather conditions
  • Beating a red light or moving before the light turns green
     

Safety Tip #5: Brief your pillion rider

Riding on a motorcycle in Singapore with your loved one may seem romantic, but this can easily turn into a fatal tragedy if both aren’t properly equipped. 

Here are some ways you can avoid an accident while riding pillion:

  • Motorcycle riding gear – both you and your passenger must be dressed for safety when riding.
  • Pre-ride briefing – especially if your pillion-rider has never been on a motorbike before.
  • Practice riding before hitting the road.
  • Drive smoothly - avoid sudden braking, acceleration, and swerving. 
     

Safety Tip #6: Secure your motorcycle insurance

No matter how vigilant you are on the road, you cannot assume that everyone else will be just as careful as you. Having motorcycle insurance will go a long way in helping you in case of an accident. Remember that you will have a better chance with your claim if you can prove that you were following safety measures such as using the proper gear.
 

When in doubt, don’t do anything risky

Remember that an accident will have different outcomes between a motorcycle and a car. A car might only sustain minimal damage, but a motorcycle could be totalled, and the rider seriously injured or even killed. This is mainly due to the lack of airbags, seatbelts, a hood, or a boot serving as a crumple zone - so the risk of death is much greater if there is an accident. 

Singapore’s roads may be considered safe, but you cannot predict when an accident may occur. So, protect yourself from unnecessary medical bills, legal fees, and massive bike repairs with motorcycle insurance.
 

Stress Free Insurance + Extra Benefits

Buying motorcycle insurance with DirectAsia is so simple. Begin by choosing the plan you want - Third Party Only (TPO), Third Party Fire & Theft (TPFT) or Full Comprehensive. Then choose to pay how you want and that’s it – you’re insured! 

You can also choose the ‘Any Rider’ Optional Benefit. Under this add-on, we aim to protect any unnamed authorised rider, which you choose to share your motorcycle with, as long as they meet the criteria. To know which motorcycle insurance policy is best for your needs, get a quote online for the best rates.