Mastering the switchgear on your motorbike is extremely important before you hit the road. The features in the switchgear enhance the functionality and safety of your ride. From ignition to indicators, understanding the components of the bike's switchgear is as important as knowing the rules of the road. Let us explore every element of your motorcycle's handlebar controls by explaining their purposes and when to use them.
When To Use Every Bike Switchgear On Your Handlebar
Each switch and button on your motorbike's handlebar has a specific purpose. They help you take total control of your machine, ensuring complete safety. Let’s learn when and how to use them:
Basic Switchgear Functions
- Ignition Button: Modern motorcycles feature an electric ignition switch that’s normally located on the right handlebar. This button starts the engine by cranking it up, requiring the engine kill switch to be in the 'on' position.
- Horn Button: The horn is positioned on the left handlebar and should be used sparingly to alert other road users of your presence.
- Headlight Beam Switch: This switch is also located on the left. It toggles between low and high beams. Use high beams in poorly lit conditions and switch to low beams to avoid blinding oncoming traffic.
- Turn Indicator Switch: This switch is located on the left handlebar and is used to signal turns or lane changes.
Advanced Switchgear
- Hazard Lights Button: Similar to cars, this switch activates all blinkers for visibility in emergencies or low visibility conditions.
- ABS Off Button: This switch is found on adventure or off-road bikes. It allows riders to disable the Anti-lock Braking System for better control in specific conditions like dirt tracks where locking the rear wheel may be necessary.
- Traction Control Toggle: This switch helps you to turn traction control on or off. It helps manage the bike’s stability in various riding conditions.
- Riding Mode Switch: Modern high-capacity bikes come with this feature. It allows riders to switch between different riding modes such as Road, Rain, and Sport. Each adjusts the bike's performance parameters for optimal riding dynamics.
- Menu Controls: On bikes with advanced digital displays, these controls navigate through menu options. This helps manage settings without being distracted from the road.
Conclusion
Familiarising yourself with the switchgear in bike is as fundamental as riding with a helmet. Securing comprehensive bike insurance is equally crucial to complement this knowledge, as it provides a safety net by covering potential costs associated with accidents, breakdowns, and repairs.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.