Two-wheelers are a nifty way to commute offering the convenience to your travels along with saving time by helping you manoeuvre through traffic. This is a primary reason for growing preference of two-wheelers over four-wheelers. In addition to that, Statista reports about two-wheelers in India, during the financial year 2019, comprised of over 75% of the total vehicle fleet. Such high number denotes the preference of Indian buyers for two-wheeler more than other types of vehicles.
However, buying a two-wheeler is not the end of it. You need to get it registered with the governing road transport office as well as purchase a two wheeler insurance policy as mandated by the Motor Vehicles Act. While these are some requirements that require compliance after buying one, here’s how you can select a two-wheeler that fits you right:
- Lay a budget
The first step in buying a two-wheeler is deciding on the budget. Two-wheeler prices are exclusive of the road taxes and other ancillary costs like registration and insurance. When buying a new two-wheeler, these are mandatory overheads that cannot be skipped and hence laying a budget can help you buy a variant that is well within your budget. Indian two-wheeler market is filled with various alternatives ranging from gearless scooters to litre-class motor bikes. A new addition is the electric bikes that even make it difficult to choose one. Thus, your budget can help you narrow down the choices at hand.
- Purpose of your two-wheeler
Two-wheelers come in all shapes and flavours, some specifically designed for the city commute while a few others exclusively focused on long distance touring. Keeping in mind the specific purpose of your two-wheeler can help to smartly select among the myriad options. In this decision, make sure to account for the model as well as the milage offered by the two-wheeler.
- Pre-owned or new two-wheeler
An extension to the above point is deciding between a pre-owned two-wheeler or a new two-wheeler. Some buyers have a preference for either type and thus, must be factored in when buying one. Used two-wheelers have affordable price tag but may come with the increased burden of repair costs. On the contrary, new two-wheelers are expensive in its comparison but assure a hassle-free ride right from day one.
- Take it for a spin
Once you are satisfied with the specifications and price tag, make sure to take a test-ride. The real-world situations can determine whether the two-wheeler is the right fit for you or not. At a dealer’s showroom, you may not be able to gauge the feel and riding dynamics which are crucial for a smooth ride.
- Insure it well
Since you have given it so much thought in buying the right two-wheeler, make sure to insure it adequately. While two-wheeler insurance is available in two types, third party bike insurance or a comprehensive insurance, opt for the latter one since it provides a 360-degree coverage for the damages to your bike as well as third-party liabilities. As the policy scope increases, the two wheeler insurance price also goes up. So, keep that in mind when loading additional coverage in form of add-on covers to the bike.
These handy tips can help you understand and select the right two-wheeler in a comprehensive fashion. Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms and conditions, please read sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.
