When it comes time to buy a new motorcycle, you might want to keep in mind what safety features it has so you can have a safer ride on the road. Here are some of the must-have safety features to look for on your first/next motorbike.
Right size and height
One of the first things you need to do when buying a motorcycle is to make sure you’re buying one that’s the right size and height for you. It’s important not only that you can reach the ground with both feet when sitting on the motorbike, but also that you can reach all the controls on the handlebars and dashboard. The right ‘size’ also refers to the size of the engine, so that you don’t pick a motorbike which is much more powerful than you can safely manage and ride.
Anti-lock braking system
Almost every new motorcycle you buy now will have an anti-lock braking system (ABS) installed. ABS works by stopping the wheels from locking when braking suddenly, which can cause the bike to skid and be harder to control. ABS helps the wheels to slow down safely so the rider can maintain stability, which can also help to reduce the braking distance and risk of accident. Motorcycles are less stable to cars due to only having two wheels, so ABS is a great way to ride more safely.
Traction control
Traction control works by precisely controlling the amount of power which is delivered to the rear wheel. By doing so, it can help the bike to stay on the road by stopping the rear wheel from sliding due to a loss of traction with the road. While you used to only see traction control on vehicles, it’s now being adopted by most motorcycle manufacturers due to the obvious safety benefits it can deliver for riders.
Stability control
Like traction control, stability control can help you when you least expect it but need it most. It works by analysing how you’re riding using data related to torque, lean angle and acceleration, as well as the pitch angle (how far the bike is angled backwards or forwards), lean angle (how much the bike is leaning to one side), brake pressure, and wheel speed. If the stability control system senses that something is wrong it can intervene by applying brake force evenly and helping the rider to stay on the bike.
Tyre pressure monitors
Tyre-Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) are becoming increasingly popular so that riders can easily monitor the air pressure within each tyre. Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is important as having tyres which are under- or over-inflated can be a safety hazard. Some sensors are installed within the tyre rim while others are on the valve stem, and the pressure can be monitored either on a digital display or even with a mobile app.
LED headlights
LED headlights offer several advantages over normal halogen bulbs as they consume less power and are brighter, making it easier to see and be seen on the road. As they are more efficient, they’ll also last longer so you won’t need to replace them as regularly.
Electronic dashboard
You don’t need to own a Tesla in order to have a stylish electronic dashboard, as they’re becoming very common on motorcycles, displaying all the important information you need such as a speedometer, odometer, fuel level, engine temperature, throttle position and GPS position.
Apart from ensuring the safety features, you should also consider investing in an motorbike insurance cover as a long term investment. Swaan insurance offers the best motorcycle insurance quotes in Australia. Get a quick quote now!