Tips to Drive a Motorcycle with Sidecar in India
A motorbike with a sidecar not just looks unique but also adds versatility and comfort to your bike. However, for people who plan on purchasing a sidecar, things that usually cross their minds are the challenges that they would face on the road while driving a bike with a sidecar.
The iconic motorcycle with a sidecar slides us back into time to the timeless friendship of Jai Veeru from the movie “Sholay”. A motorbike with a sidecar not just looks unique but also adds versatility and comfort to your bike. However, for people who plan on purchasing a sidecar, things that usually cross their minds are the challenges that they would face on the road while driving a bike with a sidecar. However, despite all the challenges, people still opt for a bike with a sidecar due to the fact that it is helpful in accommodating an additional pillion rider or a challenged person. Also, it can be used for other purposes as well such as for putting cargo etc.
Tips to Ride a Motorcycle with a Sidecar
Highlighted below are the tips to help you overcome the challenges while riding a motorbike with a sidecar:
- Ride the Bike in a Straight Line
With three wheels that are sitting on the odd planes, it gets comparatively difficult to ride a bike with a sidecar in a straight line. In order to drive the bike with safety, practice keeping both your hands on the bars and try riding in a straight line. Keep your mind and vision clear off the distractions as it would help you in moving ahead properly.
- Steer with the Throttle
At the time of mounting the sidecar at the right side of the motorcycle, the rider is required to handle it according to the side it is turning towards. While turning towards the left, close the throttle as it lets the rear wheel spin slower in comparison to the sidecars, thereby letting you have better control. At the time of steering towards the right side, open the throttle.
- Practice Daily
Practicing daily can prove to be helpful for you in lifting off the sidecar from the ground. As during a time of emergency, you only require the two-wheel drive. Although it looks complex yet with continuous practice you’ll be able to hustle around with ease.
- Make Use of Brakes
In order to operate the front brake of the sidecar, you can make use of the lever on the right-hand side of the bike. While the rear brake can work by pressing the right foot lever. However, if there are two brakes in the sidecar, then you can make use of both regular front and rear brakes in order to stop the bike. During an emergency, it is suggested that you should use the front brake as it gives most of the power to make the bike stop.
Final Words
After gaining enough practice and confidence, you can ride alongside a pillion rider. At the time of sitting on a sidecar, it is important for the passenger to wear riding gear as a protective measure. Also, it is significant for the co-passenger to understand certain rules, and at the time when a sidecar gets off the ground, it is important for the pillion rider to maintain calm and avoid adding unnecessary weight. You are only required to follow the aforementioned tips in order to enjoy a safe and pleasant ride alongside the passenger.
Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.