Top 4 things you should check before riding your two-wheeler post lockdown

After four back to back lockdowns, the Government of India has finally take major steps to open the economy. This activity is called ‘Unlock’ and the government has come out with new set of regulations that will see the opening up of shops, offices and few other commercial spaces. That means a lot of us now will be able to travel outside for work or other activities.  

But before you do that, there are a few things that you need to check in case you plan on taking your motorcycle or scooter. It’s very important to do that because these vehicles have been parked in the open for over two months – something your bike or scooter probably have never experienced before. 

Battery Check 

The battery is mostly likely to be depleted as the two-wheeler hasn’t been used for a while. So check whether the backlight of the instrument cluster lights up when you turn on the ignition switch. If it doesn’t, then the battery has been depleted. There are two ways to get the bike running. First, try a jump start. Ask someone to push the two-wheeler with you on the saddle and when the vehicle gets enough momentum, switch to second gear and dump the clutch. Try this for a few times. If it doesn’t work, call for a mechanic and get the battery charged.  

Tyre Check 

If the bike or the scooter hasn’t been used during the lockdown, then there's a high possibility of the tyres to be deflated. To get out of this situation, there are two ways. Buy yourself a portable air compressor and use your or your neighbour’s car to power it on. This activity won’t take more than 10 minutes. The other option is to push the bike to the nearest petrol pump or garage where there’s an air compressor. Do not ride the vehicle. You are bound to damage the tyres first, and then the wheels.  

Wire Check  

Check if the wires on the bike are in good condition. There are chances that the rats or rodents might have nibbled on some. When a vehicle is parked for a long duration, the rodents make it their home. So it is important to check the wires. If you find the wires have been chewed up, simply call the mechanic and ask him to take over.  

Fuel Check 

You might not remember the last time you fuelled up your scooter or bike. So better give it a check before you take it out for a ride. We advice you to go the nearest petrol pump and fill up the vehicle anyway.