Bikes and Scooters

Bikes and scooters enthusiasts have long sung the praises of the two-wheelers; they’re stylish, economical, fast, easy to ride and ideal if you’re young and have places to go. But choosing the right tow-wheeler is a difficult-and very personal-task. So many options, in fact, that finding the perfect one is almost as hard as finding the perfect boyfriend or girlfriend. You have to consider its looks, capabilities, maintenance budget etc.

Engines of Scooters’ are low on one side at the rear, helping maintain balance at low speeds. Motorbike engines are in the centre, for balance at high speeds on rough roads. Bigger engines mean more power and pickup, so bikes over 125cc need disc brakes, stronger chassis, and wider tyres.100cc-125cc bikes have less power and usually use drum brakes, which aren’t good for high speeds. Maintenance routine must be follow in the manual. Stick to riding at low speeds for the first 1000km, and change oil as recommended. Get your bike checked regularly at a good workshop, and buy spare parts yourself. Mileage in bikes over 125cc has only average 40 to 50km/liter. 100 to 125cc bikes are most fuel efficient (about 55/l to 65 km/l). Scooters are less efficient, as they use the same amount of fuel at low and high speeds. Tyres are usually fitted to balance fuel consumption and handling. Bigger tyres mean less mileage. If you’re changing tyres, make sure tyres fit the original rim and don’t touch the swing arm or drive chain. Knobbly trial bike tyres can be dangerous in conditions besides dirt use. Shocks should be always checked. Gas rear shocks are best, but there are well-balanced spring shocks too. Helmets are usually taken as burden. But never ride without one, even pillion. Don’t skimp; good helmets save lives. Make sure yours is comfortable and of good quality, and always wear it with the straps buckled. Keep these in mind when making your choice, and no matter which two-wheeler you go with, always ride safe.