Some Essential Parts of Your Two-Wheeler You Should Know About

Two-wheelers are one of the most convenient and cheapest modes of commuting. Not only do they help you cover short distances in no time but also, they are the most fuel-efficient vehicle running on roads. There are little things in this world that can match the thrill and excitement of riding a two-wheeler. If you happen to be a bike enthusiast, you must be well-versed with the different parts of your all-weather companion on road. Also, motor insurance is important to protect you and your bike from any accident or mishap.

However, it’s difficult to acquire a deep knowledge about all the essential parts that are common to every two-wheeler. This article is here to the rescue. Here, we have listed and described some basic two-wheeler spare parts, including engine, gear, clutch, accelerator, brakes, tires, fuel tank, and exhaust pipe. We’ve also listed some two-wheeler maintenance tips. Read on.

1. Engine

   The engine of a bike or scooter is often called its heart. This is what powers a two-wheeler and is responsible for its performance. The combustion of the fuel takes place in an engine and thereafter, other parts of the vehicle start moving. For bikes, the engine is usually located on the front whereas, for scooters, the engine is on the rear side.

   Regular inspection and servicing is essential for the longevity of the engine. Hence, you must take your two-wheeler for servicing every four to six months to keep its engine fresh and efficient. You should also add an Engine Damage Cover to your two-wheeler insurance policy, which will cover the repair expenses should your bike’s engine need it.

2. Brakes

   Brakes are one of the most important components of a two-wheeler. They are used to decrease the speed of the vehicle. There are two types of brakes – disc brakes and drum brakes. You need to apply the brakes when you need to suddenly halt your moving vehicle to avoid a collision.
   In case of motorcycles, front-tyre brake is located on the right-hand side of the handlebar whereas the rear-tyre brake is presented in form of a lever that the rider can press with his/her right leg. In case of scooters or mopeds, both the brakes are located on the handlebar.

3. Tires

   The tires separate a vehicle from the road. As the name suggests, every “two-wheeler” is equipped with two tires – one at the front and one at the rear. There are two types of tires – tubeless tires and tube tires. Different thread patterns are designed on a tire’s surface to ensure adequate grip and friction with the road.

   Note that you should maintain an optimum tire pressure all the time. It will not only help you in maintaining the balance of your bike, but it will also increase the fuel efficiency of your two-wheeler. Also, when the thread patterns of your bike’s tires start flattening, you should change them.

4. Clutch and gear

   Clutch and gear are a set of components that are exclusive to motorcycles or bikes. While gear is used to control motion and torque, clutch is used to apply brakes and change gears during the ride. Gears are usually presented as a lever that the rider can press with his/her left leg whereas clutch is located on the left-hand side of the handlebar.

   Like other mechanical parts, clutch and gears of a motorcycle should be serviced regularly. The clutch should be adjusted to allow an optimum level of free play. An over-tightened clutch could cause difficulty in riding and also reduce the fuel efficiency of the motorcycle.

5. Accelerator

   Accelerator is another important component, which is present in both bikes and scooters. It is present in the form of a throttle on the right-hand side of the handlebar of every two-wheeler. Accelerator is used to increase the speed of the vehicle while riding. When a rider revs up the accelerator in clockwise direction, the speed of his/her two-wheeler increases.

6. Exhaust pipe

   Exhaust pipe of a two-wheeler acts as a funnel, diverting high-pressure exhaust gas and releasing it into the atmosphere. It is also known as a silencer or front pipe in India. Exhaust pipe is usually made up of mild steel that may or may not be coated with grades of stainless steel.

   It’s very dangerous to ride a two-wheeler with choked exhaust pipe. This can cause harmful gas to accumulate within the gas chamber, which can even lead to a blast. Therefore, you should regularly clean your bike’s exhaust pipe and ensure that there’s no rusting on its surface.

7. Fuel tank

   As the name suggests, the purpose of a fuel tank is to store the fuel. The capacity of the fuel tank varies from vehicle to vehicle and it can range between 5 to 15 liters for a two-wheeler. There is a cap on the top of the fuel tank which is used to suffuse petrol into it. Fuel tank is usually located above the engine.

   Fuel tank should be cleaned regularly to avoid the formation of rust as it can react with petrol to form a dangerous combination. You can use baking soda or white vinegar to clean your bike’s fuel tank.

8. Headlamp and tail-lamp

   Head lamp and tail-lamp of a two-wheeler are the lights which assist the rider as well as others on road. Headlamp, also called the eye of the vehicle, is located in front of the two-wheeler and is used during the night or foggy conditions for clear visibility of road and other vehicles.

   On the other hand, the taillight is located on the back of the two-wheeler so that other vehicles running on road can spot your bike easily and maintain a safe distance.

To conclude

If you own a two-wheeler, or intend to buy one in the future, you must know about these common two-wheeler parts. Also, you should obey all traffic safety rules while riding your two-wheeler to ensure a safe and secure ride. Furthermore, you should procure a comprehensive two-wheeler insurance policy, which keeps your vehicle financially secured against the adversities.