Choosing the best motorcycle insurance is critical to safeguarding your bike. It protects you financially from all calamitous situations that may result in bike damage. In India, there are three types of bike insurance—standalone own-damage cover, bare minimum third-party liability insurance and comprehensive insurance. Today, we will discuss some crucial points related to third-party liability coverage. 

What is 3rd party insurance for a bike?

In India, it is mandatory to have third-party insurance to ride your bike on public roads. According to the law, you are not permitted to ride your two-wheeler unless it is covered by this policy. Third-party insurance protects you financially against legal liabilities arising from hurt or damage caused to a third-party person or property, respectively. It also covers legal fees if the victim files a lawsuit against you.

Is third-party insurance enough for a bike?

Third-party insurance does not cover damage to the insured bike. If your bike is involved in a road accident and is severely damaged, third-party insurance will not cover the repair costs. The scope of coverage also excludes situations in which your bike is stolen or damaged as a result of a natural or manmade disaster.

Therefore, it is recommended to have either comprehensive bike insurance or to supplement third-party coverage with a standalone own-damage policy. You should also think about adding appropriate riders to broaden the scope of coverage.

Is the premium of a third-party insurance policy high?

No, it is, in fact, the most affordable policy available in the market. The price of third-party liability insurance is fixed by the Insurance Regulatory Department of India (IRDAI). It is decided based on the engine displacement size. Let's see how much it costs for different models.

Riding efficiency offered by motorcycles make them the undisputed leaders of Indian roads. They are not only convenient and fun to use, but also are fuel-efficient. This makes them an ideal substitute for public vehicles and other modes of personal transport.

But with great convenience comes greater risk. It is essential to be cautious while using a bike. Your ride must be as safe as your bike’s efficiency. Having bike insurance will secure you and your bike from any losses occurring due any accidents. Here are some quick bike hacks to take care of your bike and ensure safety while using it:

1. Keep the right accessory set handy

One of the top bike riding hacks is to keep all the essential accessories handy. It will not only ensure safety but also improve the bike riding experience. Gearing up with the right clothing is equally essential as carrying additional accessories. For instance, when out on a long ride, riding a two-wheeler in t-shirts, shorts and sandals can be uncomfortable as well as unsafe.

You may thus want to switch to clothing options such as reinforced jackets, leathers, boots and pants. Essential accessories can include glasses for open-faced helmets, gloves, and the right helmets to go with for the highest safety reinforcements.

2. Continue bike ride in your comfort zone

Bikers, especially those who have purchased new two-wheelers, often choose to experiment with their riding styles and take unchartered routes. However, an unfamiliar riding route that is out of your comfort zone comes with a set of risks such as skids and badly-timed brakes. If not cautious, these can lead to unfortunate accidents.

Similarly, riding a bike on new routes with unknown bends and turns poses a high degree of risk to the rider as well as the two-wheeler. For example, going for off-road trips with your bike where the riding surface is uneven can result in dysfunctional shock absorbers, loosened brake systems etc. Thus, one of the important bike hacks is to use your bike in familiar territories within your comfort zones only.

3. Inspect before gearing up for your ride

Giving your bike a quick inspection before taking it for a ride can prove to be a life-saver. For instance, checking tyre pressure, mirror placements, and light focus before the ride can help you drive safely on dark roads, uneven surfaces and busy routes.

Going for a quick inspection can also reveal minute misplacements such as loosened bolts, fuel leaks, or any other mechanical hazard that can bear high risks. Staying diligent regarding timely vehicular care and maintenance can prove to be another great bike riding hack that can nip any riding risks in the bud.

4. Combine manual cognizance with mirror check

When riding two-wheelers, we often rely heavily on mirrors to track surrounding traffic. While side mirrors lend essential insight for improved safety during a ride, it is also equally prudent to manually check for nearby vehicles, especially at the road bends. In such situations, mirror views are often limited with defined easy-to-miss blind spots.

5. Be cautious of steep road curves while riding

One of the trickiest bike riding experiences is to tread through sharp turns since steep road curves can be risky if not navigated discreetly. Extra care is needed when the roads are not clear and could have loose gravel or potholes. The most prudent bike riding decision would be to read such road conditions well and drive slow while driving through road bends.

In India, all insurance companies are bound to follow the rules and regulations set by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). These rules and regulations aim to keep the relationship between the insurance provider and the policyholder as smooth as possible. The IRDAI rules vary depending on the type of two-wheeler insurance policy. The rules for various types of insurance coverage are as follows:

The IRDAI rules for a third-party liability two-wheeler insurance policy

IRDAI has set certain rules and regulations regarding third-party liability two-wheeler insurance. It provides coverage under certain circumstances that are given below.

• If the insured bike causes death or injury to the third party, the insurer will compensate the third party. 

• The compensation amount will be determined by the court based on the severity of the third-party injury.

• The cost of damage to a third-party property will be covered by the insurer. The court will decide the amount of compensation based on the extent of loss.

   

Two-wheelers are one of the most convenient and cost-efficient modes of commuting. Their ability to cut through long traffic snarls and narrow lanes means that you can reach your destination as quickly as possible. Moreover, two-wheelers are the best means to avoid the hassles of using public transport for those who can't afford a car.

However, there's no denying the fact that even though two-wheelers are cool and fuel-efficient, they are riskier than cars. According to the Insurance Information Institute, a two-wheeler accident is 30 times more likely to cause the rider's death than other vehicles. The NCRB data also shows that in 2019, around 58,747 two-wheeler occupants died in road accidents against 22,637 car occupants.

Therefore, it is imperative for two-wheeler owners to follow certain road safety tips while riding their bikes or scooters. It will not only help in avoiding an accident but also provide them with a stress-free riding experience.

The statistics for road accidents and casualties in India are alarming. Did you know that more than 5 lakh road accidents take place in India every year, out of which 1.5 lakh people never make it alive and 3 lakh are left crippled for life? 

With an aim to curb the rise of road related vehicle mishaps, more stringent traffic rules have been imposed from September 2019, by the Indian Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act. The sharp increase in traffic penalties has been done so that motorists and two-wheeler riders take traffic rules and regulations more seriously and do not violate them for the sake of their own safety and that of others.    

These are the top 8 traffic rule violations with their updated penalties and fines that you should be aware of. It will serve as a quick guide and reminder for you every time you turn on the ignition key to ride your bike.

Driving Without a Valid Driving License

It is obvious that you should have their driving license with you when riding your bike and it should not have expired. Telling the traffic cop that you forgot your driving license at home or were just about to get it renewed may not work anymore. You will have to pay up a whopping Rs.5000 instead of the earlier Rs.500 as fine for violating this fundamental traffic rule.  

Driving an Uninsured Vehicle

Say you were on your bike, jumped a traffic signal and got unlucky. If you don’t have bike insurance or your policy has expired, you have committed an offence. According to the new traffic rules you can be penalised with a fine of Rs.2000 (first time) or Rs.4000 (second time) and/or imprisonment up to 3 months.

Getting your vehicle insured is compulsory as per the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. You should have at least third-party insurance to cover your liability in case your car or bike causes third-party injury, death or damage in an accident. Timely bike insurance renewal is a must.

Buying bike insurance is more than just fulfilling your legal duty as a bike owner. Comprehensive bike insurance will safeguard your bike from damages due to accidents, theft and other disasters.

In keeping with changing requirements, the ever-increasing number of two-wheelers on Indian roads and rising cases of accident and uninsured bikes, the apex insurance regulator IRDAI makes changes in vehicle insurance rules and regulations from time to time.

While you would know that it is compulsory to have bike insurance, you may not be aware about the latest updates about buying two-wheeler insurance. One of the points that will come up when you go to buy bike insurance is about a long-term 5 year policy. Is it compulsory for all two-wheelers to be covered with a 5 year bike insurance policy? How does it compare with a standard 1 year bike insurance? How will it affect the premium I pay and my policy coverage?  

This article is about answering all such questions and clearing any confusion in your mind about 5 year two-wheeler insurance.

About 5 Year Two-Wheeler Insurance & How It Works:

Following a Supreme Court ruling in September 2018, IRDAI has made it mandatory for all new two-wheelers to be issued a 5-year insurance cover. This has been done to ensure that maximum number of two-wheelers remain insured and also to minimise incidents of lapsed, expired policies and uninsured vehicles.

Note that a 5 year cover is mandatory only for third-party (TP) bike insurance policies. Having third-party insurance is anyway compulsory for all vehicles as per the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.  

If you have just bought a brand new scooter or bike and decided to go with basic third-party bike insurance, you will necessarily have to buy a 5 year insurance policy. But if you choose to purchase comprehensive two-wheeler insurance for your new bike, then your policy tenure will be 3 years and not 5 years.

Driving a motorcycle is an adventurous experience. Imagine yourself wearing a stunning pair of sunglasses and driving on a countryside road, winds of which sway your hair, and a stupid dent on your bike. Brakes! You see how a simple dent can cause the entire experience to lose its sheen and wonder. That is why we recommend you to get your dent fixed. A dent, which can be a result of an accident or due to careless management of your bike, can be quite expensive to get repaired and freshly painted. However, a dent, big or small, can be easily removed at home using some handy tricks. Of course, if you are careful enough, you would already have bought a two-wheeler insurance policy which would cover your expenses pertaining to the repair of the dent.

To tackle the rising air pollution in the country, the Government of India has laid down standardised rules for allowing emission levels from motor vehicles. Under this rule, all motor vehicles in India have to mandatorily undergo an emission test and if their emission levels comply with the norms, a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate is awarded to them.

This is done to ensure that every vehicle is safe to run on roads, without creating much air pollution. Different classes of vehicles have different emission levels and it is compulsory for every vehicle in India to have a valid PUC certificate. Non-adherence to this rule may attract traffic fine or imprisonment or both.

In this article, we will tell you more about a PUC Certificate and you will also get to know how to get PUC certificate online as well as offline for your vehicle. Continue reading.

What is a PUC Certificate?

A PUC certificate, also known as the Pollution Under Control certificate, is a Government-issued document that is awarded to a vehicle if its emission levels are found to be within the permissible limits. As per the Central Motor Vehicles Act, a valid PUC certificate must be present with every vehicle on the road at all times.

The PUC certificate of a vehicle contains the following information:

• Vehicle’s registration number
• Serial number of the PUC certificate
• Date of the emission test
• Validity date of the PUC certificate
• Reading of the emission level of the vehicle

The PUC certificate can be obtained by a vehicle owner by paying a nominal fee which ranges between ₹ 60 to ₹ 100.

What is the validity of a PUC certificate?

For new cars and two-wheelers, the PUC certificate is provided by the dealer itself and is valid for one year from the date of registration of the car. Post that, the PUC certificate of the vehicle needs to be renewed as per the Government’s guidelines. For vehicles that are more than 5 years old, the PUC certificate comes with a validity of six months.

However, in case of adverse readings, the time frame for the validity of a PUC certificate will depend upon the recorded emission levels.

How to obtain a PUC certificate?

The PUC certificate for new vehicles are provided by the dealer and it comes with a validity of one year. Post that, you need to follow the steps mentioned to get a PUC certificate for your vehicle:

Step 1 – Find a PUC centre near you. It could be a petrol pump or a government-licensed auto emission testing centre or a private emission testing centre.

Step 2 – Get the exhaust pipe of your car or two-wheeler scanned by the testing executive at the PUC center. The emission levels of your vehicle will get recorded.

Step 3 – You will be required to pay a requisite fee to the testing executive. If the emission levels of your vehicle are within the authorised limits, you will be provided with a PUC certificate containing your vehicle’s emission readings.

Riding a bike can be one of the most entertaining things you can do. If you’re a bike enthusiast, you are probably aware of the fun and convenience a bike can bring to you. You can not only whiz past the peak-hour traffic and reach your destination quickly but also reduce your fuel expenses significantly by opting for a bike for your daily travel. Government has made motor insurance mandatory while driving on the Indian roads.

However, with monsoon gripping the country, the chances are that rain could come in any time, and you may encounter wet and slippery roads. Riding in bike in such conditions can be extremely challenging. Buy a bike insurance as it will secure you from any financial losses occurred due to road accidents. Here are a few bike riding tips for the rainy season to make this a little easier:

1. Check the condition of your bike’s tyres

During the rainy season, the roads become wet and slippery. Hence, it’s very important for every bike rider to get a firm grip on the road and the tyres of his/her bike help him/her with that. Therefore, the tyres of your bike need to be in a very good condition before you take your vehicle out during the rainy season.

Inspect your tyres properly for wear and tear. If you think they are not in a proper condition, it’s better to replace them than taking a risk. Check for the tyre treads. It’s essential to have adequate tread depth as it helps in dispersing water and ensures a firm grip on wet roads.

2. Wrap yourself in waterproof gear

Before you begin a ride on your bike during monsoon, it’s crucial to wrap yourself in a waterproof riding gear. Get a strong pair of waterproof riding boots, raincoat or waterproof jacket, rain proof pant, a pair of gloves, and of course, a sturdy ISI-marked helmet. Make sure there is no way for the water to enter and make you wet while you’re riding your bike.

Besides offering you a comfortable ride, this will also ensure your good health. However, make sure your gear isn’t too tight. You should be able to feel comfortable in it and it should not restrict your movement while you are riding.

3. Ensure maximum visibility

Rains can hamper visibility to a large extent while you are riding your bike. Hence, you should take extra precautions during this season. Avoid using dark or tinted glasses while riding during the rainy season. Also, make sure the visor of your helmet in clear and scratch-free to ensure maximum visibility.

If your visor seems to be damaged, it’s better to replace it before the monsoon sets in. Also, keep your headlights on all the time to make sure you can clearly see the road. If you are still experiencing hampered visibility, you can take a halt and wait till the weather clears a bit.

4. Get your bike serviced

The last thing you would want is getting stuck in the middle of the road amidst rains and thunderbolts. It can be a horrifying experience. Hence, it’s prudent to get your bike serviced before the rainy season to ensure that it doesn’t break down in the middle of a journey.

Also, you must follow proper bike maintenance tips to make sure your bike is in a smooth condition. For example, change its engine oil, oil filters, and air filters. Make sure that all the tyres are properly inflated, and all the lights are working.

There are a few things in life that can provide you more thrill than riding a motorcycle. Be it running swiftly on highways or whizzing through the peak hour traffic, a motorcycle is undoubtedly the most convenient and affordable mode of commuting. However, just like any other machine, a bike or motorcycle also requires maintenance and a bike insurance policy as it not only covers your bike but also protects you in an emergency.

One of the most important components of bike’s maintenance is changing its engine oil on a regular basis. Without the regular changing of bike’s engine oil, the engine can get overheated, friction between its moving parts can increase, and its overall performance can suffer. Also, the fuel efficiency of the bike can decrease.

According to the experts, bike oil change should be done at least once in every six months or after every 2,000 kilometres. As a responsible bike owner, you should make sure to maintain this frequency for changing your bike’s engine oil. Read on to learn some quick tips that can help you perform this simple bike maintenance task with ease.

1. Gather your tools before beginning the process

As with any other process, the first step towards your bike’s oil change is to gather all the tools you may need. These include a can of fresh engine oil, new oil filter, a drain pan, measuring beaker, funnel, and some basic tools for opening and tightening nut bolts such as a screwdriver and adjustable socket wrench.

Apart from this, you must also keep your bike’s service manual book handy. It will help you know the exact process of oil change, specific type and quantity of oil required for your bike, as well as the information about the frequency at which you should change your bike’s engine oil.

2. Maintain proper frequency for changing your bike’s engine oil

You should maintain proper frequency to change your bike’s engine oil. Usually, mechanics advise to change your bike’s engine oil every six months or after every 2,000 kilometres. However, for more exact information on the correct frequency for your bike’s oil change, you should refer to its service manual book.

While taking a longer time to change your bike’s oil may cause a decline in its engine’s performance and fuel efficiency, doing it earlier may result in nothing but wastage of money.

3. Use the best engine oil only

It’s very important to use the best engine oil for your bike. Some mechanics may advise you to go for a cheaper engine oil to save some money. However, that’s not the best practice to follow. It can result in your bike’s performance getting affected. You can go through the service manual booklet to know about the best suited engine oil for your bike.

Also, you should purchase the engine oil only from manufacturers or trusted dealers. Chances are that others may dupe you by providing a duplicate or adulterated engine oil which can be very harmful for your bike.

You spend a considerable amount of time and money to buy your favourite bike. You leave no stone unturned to keep it in top condition. You must have purchased a comprehensive bike insurance plan to protect it from unforeseen adversities. But, what about the helmet that you will wear while riding your bike?

Undoubtedly, a helmet is the most important safety gear that you need to wear while riding a bike. In case of a road accident, it protects your head and brain from serious injuries. In the absence of a helmet, the rider’s head can suffer severe injuries which is preventable with a helmet. Hence, choosing the right bike helmet for yourself is as important as buying and maintaining your bike.

However, while buying a new bike helmet for yourself, it’s not just the colour and graphics that you should look at. There are far more important things which you should consider, such as the helmet’s type, size, shape, and safety certifications. Apart from that, we at ICICI Lombard do recommend to get yourself a motor insurance as well, to safeguard your vehicle from any damages! Below are a few tips that can help you choose the right bike helmet for yourself:

1. Know the size and shape of your head

Every individual has a different body structure. Just like a T-shirt, a bike helmet comes in different shapes and sizes. Majorly, it’s available in three sizes – M, L, and XL – and three shapes – round oval, intermediate oval, and long oval. It’s important to know the size and shape of your head and buy a helmet accordingly.

Wearing a wrong size helmet can do more harm than good. A loose helmet can fail to provide optimum protection to your head whereas, a tight helmet can put pressure on your head which can result in headache, dizziness, and compromised blood circulation.

2. Know the right type of helmet for you

You should have the proper knowledge of different types of helmets available in the market and what’s the best for you. Basically, there are four types of helmets:

1.Open face helmets

These are among the most common and easily available helmets in the market. These are lightweight helmets that offers great ventilation. These helmets do not have a jawline and hence, exposes your face for proper visibility and ventilation. These helmets are hence, fit for short city rides but not recommended for high-speed rides.

2.Full face helmets

These helmets cover the whole face of the riders and provide them an added layer of protection. They also protect the jaws of the rider as they have an immovable jawline in front. These helmets are therefore, fit for long, highway rides where you need to ride your bike at high speeds.

3.Modular helmets

Modular helmets are the combination of half and full-face helmets. These helmets can be converted into full-face or half-face helmets as per the rider’s wish. These helmets are specially designed for city riders who occasionally go for high-way rides.

4.Motocross helmets

These are full-face helmets but with a different build and structure. Unlike a normal full-face helmet, these helmets are designed to be lightweight, and offer more visibility and ventilation for the rider. These helmets are most suitable for riding in off-road conditions.

3. Look for the ISI logo on the back of the helmet

The Indian Standard Institute (ISI) has been authorised by the Government of India to ensure standard compliances for industrial products since 1955. An ISI logo on the back of a helmet assures that it complies with respective quality standards which are necessary for bike riders in India. Therefore, while buying a helmet, you must check the ISI mark on its back.

In fact, if you’re caught riding a bike in India without wearing an ISI-certified helmet, you may get penalised by the traffic cops. As per the latest notification issues by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, it will be mandatory from 1^st June 2021 for all two-wheeler owners to wear an ISI-marked helmet while riding their vehicles.

India, being in the list of most polluted countries in the world from quite some time now, is in dire need of adopting alternative fuel for mobility to curb air pollution. Electric Vehicles (EVs) are one such option which are eco-friendly and produce zero emission. With the Government planning to boost infrastructure for electric mobility, demand for EVs in India is getting higher by the day.

However, electric cars that are available in the country are still too expensive and mostly belong to the elites. But, the availability of electric bikes has solved the muddle for the common man. Almost all reputed two-wheeler manufacturers in India have started offering electric bikes and scoters at pocket-friendly prices. If you purchase a bike insurance then it will secure your e-bike against the natural and man-made adversities, including fire, theft, riot, vandalism, storm, flood, and earthquake.

Instead of conventional fuels such as petrol and diesel, electric bikes derive power from a battery, which needs to be charged again and again. To ensure long life and efficient performance of an e-bike’s battery, it’s important to follow some tips while charging it.

So, if you’ve recently purchased an electric bike or planning to purchase one soon, continue reading this article to know some useful tips about charging bike battery.

1. Charge your new bike’s battery for several hours before you start using it

When you buy a new electric bike, it comes with a fresh lithium-ion battery that may or not be charged. Hence, it’s essential to charge your bike’s battery for at least 6 to 8 hours before you start using it. The long initial charge of your bike’s battery ensures that the current flows smoothly through all its cells, enabling the battery to perform efficiently in future.

Moreover, fully charging the battery before first use helps in kickstarting the “calibration” process. It enables you to know the power and capacity of your bike’s battery and determine how it’s going to behave in the future.

2. Charge your bike’s battery before it dies completely

Most electric bikes in India use lithium batteries. These batteries usually have a good life, but to keep them in proper condition, you should charge them regularly. You should make sure that you plug in your bike battery charger before the battery of your electric bike dies completely. The best thing you can do is start charging your bike battery as soon as its level dips below 30%. As electric bikes are more efficient than traditional ones, why not give it an efficient protection! Hence, we at ICICI Lombard would recommend getting yourself our motor insurance to protect your bike from any damages!

As per battery experts, you should maintain your bike’s battery level between 30 to 60 percent. In between, you can also go for full charge if you have enough time. Regular charging of your bike’s battery also helps in improving its performance by keeping all cells activated and functional.

3. Fully charge your bike’s battery once in a week but don’t overcharge

As suggested in the above point, you should fully charge your e-bike’s battery occasionally, i.e. once in every one or two weeks. This will help in balancing the cells and improve the overall shelf-life of the battery. It works like an exercise for human body, which improves our strength by preventing our muscles from getting weak.

At the same time, overcharging is not good for the health of your bike’s battery. It’s because lithium batteries degrade while they are being charged and hence, the longer they stay connected to a high voltage charger, the longer the degradation will occur.

Top 5 Essential Documents You Should Carry While Driving

Owning a vehicle brings a feeling of pride and happiness. Hopping on your bike and setting out on a ride is no less than a bliss. However, owning a bike also entails certain responsibilities for the owner. He/she needs to be fully aware of the traffic rules and documents that he/she should carry while riding.

In case a traffic police asks for these documents, the owner needs to immediately present them to avoid traffic fines or even imprisonment. These documents are also required when you meet with an accident and file a claim on your two-wheeler insurance policy. Let us look at the list of documents required while riding a bike in India, as per the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.

1. Driving Licence

According to the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, whether you drive a four-wheeler or a two-wheeler, it is mandatory for you to have your driving licence with you. If you are learning to drive, then you need to have the learners’ licence with you.

You can apply for your Driving License at your nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO). For that, you need to produce a valid identification proof (such as Aadhar, bills, etc.) at the time of submission of the filled form, following which an appointment has to be taken for the driving test.

Once you clear the learner’s test, a learner’s driving licence will be provided to you. Post this, you can apply for permanent driving licence after 30 days of issuance of the learner’s licence.

2. Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate

Motor vehicles’ emissions, if unchecked, can have severe consequences on the environment and public health. Every vehicle as per the MV Act, 1988 requires to have a PUC. This certificate is a proof that a car or two-wheeler has passed the emission test and has complied with the pollution control norms. A vehicle that doesn’t have a valid PUC certificate is liable for a fine of up to ₹2000. PUCC is provided by dealers for new bikes that are valid for a year. After the expiry of period of one year from the date of first registration, every vehicle owner is required to renew its PUC certificate. For certificate renewal, you need to take your bike to the nearest emission test centre for thorough checking, and a new PUC certificate will be awarded after you pay the fee. Your bike can be checked and PUCC can be availed at petrol pumps or fuel stations which have PUC centres (available nationwide), licenced and computerized auto-emission testing centres or standalone emission testing centres.

When you purchase a new bike, the first thing you need to do is, getting it registered at your nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO). After the process of registration is complete, a unique registration number is allotted to the bike, and a Registration Certificate (RC) is issued to the owner. As per the Motor Vehicle Law, this registration number is mandatory to drive a vehicle on Indian roads.

Also, by using the registration number of a bike, anyone can get its basic details such as the name of the owner, two wheeler insurance details, the validity of its Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and road tax details. In case you don't know how to get a bike's insurance details by registration number, you are at the right place. We'll tell you in this article how to do so.

But, first, let's understand what the registration number of a vehicle is.

What is Bike's Registration Number?

As mentioned above, the registration number of a bike is a unique number allotted to it by the RTO where it is registered. This registration number acts as an identity card for the vehicle. It helps the traffic police authorities and the common public, know a vehicle's basic details including its RTO, fitness status, insurance details, engine and chassis number, PUC details, etc.

The basic format of a bike's registration number in India is "AA 00 AA 0000". Here, the first two letters denote the state in which the bike is registered. The following two-digit number is the code of the RTO where the bike's registration is done. The subsequent two letters indicate the RTO sequence, whereas the next four-digit number is the unique registration number allotted to the bike.

Note that the first six characters of two or more bikes can be the same, but the last four digits will always be different.

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.

According to the norms laid down by the Central Government of India, the automotive industry in the country transitioned from BS4 to BS6 from 1st April 2020. BS6 or Bharat Stage 6 (or BS-VI) is the 6th iteration of the emission norm standardised and monitored by the Ministry of Environment and Climate change.

BS4 vs BS6: What is the BS6 norm?

Bharat Stage standards are based on the European (Euro) emission norms, a globally revered standard of vehicular pollution control measures. BS6 or Bharat Stage 6 standard is at par with the Euro 6 emission norms.

BS4 vs BS6: Why did we switch from BS4 to BS6?

Six among the top ten most polluted cities in the world are from India. The severity of air pollution in the country has worsened over time, and greenhouse emission from the motor vehicles largely contribute to the cause. Realising that something has to be done, the Central Government introduced the emission norms back in 2001. Since then, the policies have only been made tighter.

BS4 vs BS6: Key differences between BS4 and BS6

The country shifted from BS4 (BS-IV) to more stringent BS6 (BS-VI) norms. But how do they differ from each other? Let’s take a look.

• A new BS6 compliant engine now powers new cars and motorcycles
• BS6 compliant motor vehicles run on more refined BS6 fuel
• BS6 engines exhaust less volume of harmful gases (nitrous oxide, carbon dioxide, and other greenhouse gases)
• The combination of hydrocarbon and NOx (nitrous oxide) has declined by 43% in the BS6 diesel engines exhausts
• The BS6 engines running on BS6 fuel produce 50% less the volume of Particulate Matter (both PM2.5 and PM10)
• The BS6 compliant diesel cars come equipped with Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to filter the exhaust fume
• The sulphur content in the BS6-grade fuel has significantly been reduced to 10 PPM (Parts Per Million) compared to the 50 PPM in the BS4-grade fuel; an 80% decline in the PPM volume
• BS6 vehicles come with built-in Onboard Diagnostic (OD) feature

BS4 vs BS6: How does BS6 norm help the environment?

With the air quality worsening in some major Indian cities, it was necessary to take steps to cut down on the pollutants. BS6 or the Euro 6 emission norms address this very need, which is also a global concern. Here are the direct effects of BS6 norms:

Less sulphur content is better for the environment: With more sulphur content, the motor vehicles emit toxic sulphur dioxide gas in the air. This sulphur dioxide reacts with the water vapour in the air and creates H2SO4 or the dangerous sulphuric acid. This reaction causes acid rain. The reduction in sulphur content in the BS6-grade fuel makes it possible to equip vehicles with better catalytic converters that filter the pollutants.

Reduced volume of particulate matter: In the BS6-grade fuel, there is a steep decline (50% decline compared to BS4-grade fuel) in the volume of Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10). PM2.5 is a dangerous pollutant that causes lung cancer.

BS4 vs BS6: Do BS4 vehicles run on BS6 fuel?

Since the BS6 fuel is more refined, the BS4 vehicles can run on it. At least the petrol vehicles don’t face any hiccup. Further, with BS4 diesel cars, companies have claimed that one may not notice any significant issue in the short run. However, experts have expressed their concern stating that using BS6-grade fuel in the BS4-diesel vehicles may show some early wear and tear signs in the long run.

That being said, there are numerous active BS4 diesel vehicles on the Indian roads which are running smoothly on BS6-grade fuel.

BS4 vs BS6: How have the BS6 norms impacted car/motorcycle’s performance?

When the BS6 norms were implemented, the car and motorcycle manufacturers tuned their engines to comply with the norms. This resulted differently in different segments of vehicles. Some of the cars now produce less power than their BS4 variants, albeit the decline is not that significant. On the flipside, BS6 cars offer a better fuel economy. The result is pretty similar in the case of motorcycles and scooters.

Also, the on-paper torque figures for both cars and motorcycles have remained unaltered and, in some cases, have even increased slightly.

It is important to know that with the introduction of BS6 norms, many automobile companies have refrained from launching their diesel vehicles. Whereas, some of the manufacturers have even discontinued their old diesel cars.

As per the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988, all two-wheelers must have valid third-party insurance to ply on Indian roads. A standard bike insurance policy usually comes with a single year tenure, after which vehicle owners have to renew the policy. If the policy is not renewed on time, the owner may face a fine of ₹2,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 3 months. For a repetitive violation, the bike owner may have to pay a fine of ₹4,000 along with imprisonment for the same term.

Digitisation has made bike insurance renewal easier, by almost nullifying the paperwork requirements. You can now renew your bike insurance from the comfort of your home by simply entering a few details on the insurance company's website and paying the renewal premium through electronic means.

However, many two-wheeler owners end up making a few mistakes while renewing their bike insurance policy. These mistakes may result losing benefits or claim-related disputes. Listed below are some such errors which you can easily avoid:

1. Not claiming your NCB

The No Claim Bonus (NCB) is the insurance provider's reward to the policyholder for not raising a claim during the policy tenure. Often, customers forget to get this benefit at the time of renewal.

The NCB is essentially a discount, which you should claim without fail. It reduces the net premium amount that you have to pay for the renewal of your bike insurance policy. You can claim the NCB within 90 days after the policy expiry date. However, we always recommend renewing your bike insurance policy well before the expiry date to ensure optimum coverage.

2. Overlooking the terms & conditions

Insurance providers might regularly modify their terms and conditions to abide by the regulatory changes and maintain business proficiency. You should not assume that the policy terms will remain constant. Read all terms and conditions carefully while renewing your bike insurance to know the policy exclusions, and ensure it still covers your requirements

Knowledge of the terms and conditions will keep you aware of structural changes in your bike insurance policy. Hence, you will be able to make an informed decision regarding the switch to a new insurer. Most importantly, it will keep you informed of what you can rightfully expect as compensation when you make a claim.

3. Not intimating the insurer about modifications

Some motorcycle enthusiasts love to customise their rides. If you also make certain modifications to your bike, you must provide the details of each modification to the insurance company at renewal. This will avoid any disputes in the event of a claim.

Many owners may think it is not a big deal if they do not provide the modification details. However, such negligence may render their cover ineffective and give the company a ground to reject or significantly reduce their claim amount.

4. Providing incorrect details

The biggest mistake (which you can easily avoid!) is giving incorrect details while renewing your bike insurance policy. You should carefully type in the details such as registration number, previous policy number, owner's name etc. while applying for renewal of the policy.

The insurance cover may become invalid if the name of the vehicle owner is found to be incorrect. Hence, you should keep your bike's registration certificate and previous policy document handy while renewing the policy so that you don't miss out on the exact details.

India is home to some of the most polluted cities in the world. As per the data published by the World Health Organisation in 2016, excessive air pollution is the fifth largest reason for deaths in India. In fact, among the top 100 most polluted global cities (in terms of Particulate Matter PM10), 30 cities are from India.

One of the primary reasons behind India's imprudent air pollution is the harmful emissions from millions of vehicles plying daily on roads. In Delhi alone, vehicular emissions contribute to 59%, 50%, and 18% of the harmful carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrous oxides discharge into the air.

To curb the perennially rising air pollution in India, the Central Government laid down stricter BS6 emission norms for vehicles in 2017. Further, the Government made it mandatory for all cars and two-wheeler manufacturers to sell and register only BS6 compliant vehicles from 1st April 2020.

In case you're wondering how the Indian two-wheeler industry has been impacted due to this BS6 norm, this article is for you. Here, you will know everything about the implementation of BS6 emission standard in India and how it will impact the pricing, hardware, fuel, lubricant technology, and manufacturing of the new bikes and scooters. Read on.

What is BS6 emission standard?

BS6, or Bharat Stage 6, is the most advanced emission standard for automobiles in India. It is equivalent to Euro VI norms, which is currently in place in various European countries. Considering the constantly rising air pollution in our country, the Indian Government decided to leapfrog directly from BS-4 to BS-6 emission standards to control vehicular pollution.

Accordingly, the entire automobile industry was asked to phase out all their BS-4 vehicles and sell only BS-6 cars and two-wheelers after the deadline of 1st April 2020.

How has two-wheeler manufacturing changed due to the implementation of BS6 norms?

Transitioning from BS4 to BS6 norms requires significant changes in engine technology for two-wheeler manufacturers in India. These changes include improvements in engine combustion and calibration, enhanced fuel injection and cylinder pressures, and after-treatment solutions for NOx and PM.

The BS-6 norms make it mandatory for two-wheeler manufacturers to introduce a fuel injection system for the first time in India. As an aftereffect of this system, carbon emission from the petrol engines of two-wheelers has reduced significantly. Also, the BS6 engines are observed to be less powerful but more fuel-efficient.

With the global temperature on a steady climb, the last thing the world needs is more pollution. When we deplete fossil fuels, we will eventually have to bank on an alternate power source. Many enterprises have realised this need and, therefore, have started manufacturing EVs (electric vehicles). To contribute to a greener future, the Indian automotive industry is making a gradual shift to electric power.

Although electric vehicles have not been widely accepted by the Indian market yet, they're certainly a part of the future. The government is trying to push it, offering substantial subsidies to customers buying electric scooters or EVs in India.

What is an electric scooter?

An electric scooter is a two-wheeler vehicle like any other motorbike or scooter; the only difference is that an electric scooter does not run on petrol or diesel. Instead, an electric motor and a battery power it. Electric scooters cause zero-emission and zero noise pollution – making this category of two-wheelers the most viable alternative to deal with pollution.

Registration and license: electric scooters in India

Many prominent automobile manufacturers have introduced their electric scooters in India. And most of them do not require the rider to hold a two-wheeler license to ride e-scooters. Moreover, some e-scooters do not even need registration, which is a mandate for conventional motorcycles.

The primary reason behind such exclusion is the amount of power the motors produce. Most of the electric scooters in India come fitted with a 250watt motor and can go up to 25kmph. This relatively timid nature of electric scooters eliminates any possibility of over-speeding and, therefore, makes them less vulnerable to possibly fatal accidents.

This low-power-low-speed is why some of the electric scooters in India don't even need to have insurance. But the high-powered ones have different rules to follow. Keep reading to learn more.

Two-wheeler insurance for electric scooters

When it comes to e-vehicles, Indians have widely accepted the e-rickshaws, but the market for electric two-wheelers and EVs is still small. Despite the monetary benefits from the government, customers are shying away from these vehicles. This may be one reason why the government had not laid out any definitive rule or guideline for electric scooters' insurance (especially for the low-speed ones).

However, there are other electric scooters in India - mighty beasts with high-powered motors that generate huge torque and power. In terms of top speed, these electric scooters are equivalent to their petrol counterparts and can reach up to a rate of 80-90kmph.

You must hold a valid two-wheeler license to ride one of these powerful electric scooters in India. They also require registration and a valid two-wheeler insurance policy.

Types of two-wheeler insurance for electric scooters

If an owner of a two-wheeler vehicle wants to buy a two-wheeler insurance policy, there are two main options to choose from:

Third-party insurance policy for electric scooters: Third-party insurance is a two-wheeler insurance policy covering only the third-party liabilities. In case of an accident where you hurt someone or damage third party property, this policy will cover the expenses – medical expenses in case of an injury caused to a third-party as well as other damages caused to the victim's vehicle or property. This type of insurance policy does not cover damage to your own scooter.

Comprehensive insurance policy for e-bikes or electric scooters: In simpler words, this is a more inclusive two-wheeler insurance policy. A comprehensive two-wheeler insurance policy provides optimum cover for the insured vehicle against any man-made or natural disaster. Apart from third party liabilities, this insurance policy covers your scooter's repair expenses in case of accidents, theft and malicious damage.

Two-wheelers are one of the most convenient and cheapest modes of commuting in India. Not only do they help you cover short distances in no time but they are also fuel efficient. Few things in this world 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 the road.

However, not many people have deep knowledge about the essential parts that are common to every two-wheeler. If you're also among one such person, this article is for you. 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 after that, 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 are 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 Protect Cover to your two-wheeler insurance policy, which will cover the repair expenses for regular wear and tear of your bike's engine. Our Private Car Package Policy comes with an Enginel Protect Plus add-on, which you can purchase at a nominal extra premium.

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 halt your moving vehicle.

In the case of motorcycles, the front-tyre brake is located on the right-hand side of the handlebar whereas the rear-tyre brake is presented in the form of a lever that the rider can press with his/her right leg. In the case of scooters or mopeds, both the brakes are located on the handlebar.

3. Tyres

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

Note that you should maintain an optimum tyre pressure all the time. It will help you maintain the balance of your bike, and 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 the gear is used to control motion and torque, the 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 the clutch is located on the left-hand side of the handlebar.

Like other mechanical parts, the 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. The accelerator is used to increase the speed of the vehicle while riding. When a rider revs up the accelerator in a 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 gases and releasing them into the atmosphere. It is also known as a silencer or front pipe in India. The 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 a choked exhaust pipe. This can cause harmful gases to accumulate within the gas chamber, leading to a blast in a worst-case scenario. Therefore, you should regularly clean your bike's exhaust pipe and ensure that there's no rusting at its surface.

7. Fuel tank

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