- Date : 18/04/2021
- Read: 5 mins
Planning to buy a two-wheeler? Here’s how you can select the right one.
India is the world’s largest two-wheeler market and accounts for approximately 37 million units. China is a close second with 34 million. Now most popular bike companies are present in India and this offers prospective buyers a wide spectrum of options. These days you can even buy a two-wheeler online in India, but the thrill of entering a showroom and checking out the various options is a special experience.
Here are a few important things to keep in mind while purchasing a two-wheeler:
1. Collect all the documents required
The purchaser is required to carry the following documents:
- Attested copy of ID proof (driving licence, PAN card, Aadhaar card, etc.)
- Attested copy of proof of residence
- Passport size photos
- Income proof in case the bike is bought through a loan
- Note: You may have to produce the original ID proof and address proof for inspection. Make sure that the person in whose name the vehicle will be registered is at least 18 years old.
Once the documents are in hand, you can visit the showroom and start the purchase process.
Related: 4 Things you didn’t know about your two-wheeler insurance
2. Shortlist bikes on the internet
Before arriving at a decision on the model and type of bike, it would be a good idea to do some research on the internet. Read reviews online and take opinions from seasoned riders. The number of units sold in India is perhaps a good indicator on which to base your selection. Hero’s ‘Splendor’ motorbike sells the most units in India and has been selling since 1994 till date. Also important are the reliability, availability of parts, and after-sales service. In this regard, Honda and Hero are both excellent choices.
3. Consider the mileage and cost of petrol
Fuel efficiency is an important factor for a vehicle to succeed in India. In other words, the prevailing cost of petrol has a major impact on the two-wheeler market. In today’s scenario, a mileage of at least 50 kmpl is desirable. Most 100-150cc scooters and motorbikes fall in this category. To derive the best mileage from your two-wheeler, drive at moderate speeds (45-50 kmph), service and maintain your bike at prescribed intervals, and remember to check the tyre pressure regularly.
Related: What third-party insurance means to your two-wheeler?
4. Ensure easy service and support
Noted brands such as Honda, Hero, and TVS try to provide good service at authorised service centres, as this is a benchmark of quality. Attention to detail is another necessary trait. The service centres should have the necessary hi-tech equipment to service a two-wheeler efficiently. Before buying a bike, do visit the service centre and see the equipment being used. Better still, read reviews online and check the star ratings of the centres.
5. Check availability of spare parts
This is a vital factor in the selection of your two-wheeler. Indian roads in general are notorious for causing wear and tear on vehicles. So, the availability of affordable spare parts should play a significant role in your selection.Having to wait many months to get a vital part can kill the experience of owning a dream bike, so verify this before putting down your money.
6. Evaluate the EMI options
Equated Monthly Instalments (EMIs) make it easy to own even an expensive bike. EMIs are especially ideal if you are a salaried employee. Go online and check out some great deals from various financial institutions. These days the bank representatives are available throughout the day in the showrooms to help you get the loan you need. Carry your bank statement for the past three months, or three months’ salary slip. You don’t even need to have an account with the bank in question; almost any bank can provide a two-wheeler loan. But check if the interest rates are competitive.
Related: Why you should consider long-term two-wheeler insurance
7. Apply for two-wheeler driving licence
Every state has a licence application portal, usually under the transport department. If you don’t have a licence to ride a two-wheeler, you must initially apply for a learner’s licence, which is valid for six months. During this time you can choose a test date and after clearing the test you will be granted a permanent licence. Remember there are separate categories for geared and ungeared two-wheelers. Further details are available at the local RTO.
Tip: Visit the RTO a day or two before your driving test and observe what the licence applicants are made to do, so you can be prepared.
8. Being environmentally conscious
Maintaining your bike after purchase is important for not only the functioning of the bike, but also the environment. So make sure the emission levels are always in check. The original PUC certificate is valid for a year, but if you use the right grade of oil and service the bike regularly, you won’t have any trouble meeting emission norms later.
You could also consider buying a battery/electric powered bike if you wish to promote a pollution-free environment. These ‘zero emission’ two-wheelers are ideal for in-city use if your daily run is limited. The absence of charging facilities is a deterrent at the moment in India, but there’s no doubt that electric vehicles are the future. Why you should get your two wheeler insured if you haven’t already
India is the world’s largest two-wheeler market and accounts for approximately 37 million units. China is a close second with 34 million. Now most popular bike companies are present in India and this offers prospective buyers a wide spectrum of options. These days you can even buy a two-wheeler online in India, but the thrill of entering a showroom and checking out the various options is a special experience.
Here are a few important things to keep in mind while purchasing a two-wheeler:
1. Collect all the documents required
The purchaser is required to carry the following documents:
- Attested copy of ID proof (driving licence, PAN card, Aadhaar card, etc.)
- Attested copy of proof of residence
- Passport size photos
- Income proof in case the bike is bought through a loan
- Note: You may have to produce the original ID proof and address proof for inspection. Make sure that the person in whose name the vehicle will be registered is at least 18 years old.
Once the documents are in hand, you can visit the showroom and start the purchase process.
Related: 4 Things you didn’t know about your two-wheeler insurance
2. Shortlist bikes on the internet
Before arriving at a decision on the model and type of bike, it would be a good idea to do some research on the internet. Read reviews online and take opinions from seasoned riders. The number of units sold in India is perhaps a good indicator on which to base your selection. Hero’s ‘Splendor’ motorbike sells the most units in India and has been selling since 1994 till date. Also important are the reliability, availability of parts, and after-sales service. In this regard, Honda and Hero are both excellent choices.
3. Consider the mileage and cost of petrol
Fuel efficiency is an important factor for a vehicle to succeed in India. In other words, the prevailing cost of petrol has a major impact on the two-wheeler market. In today’s scenario, a mileage of at least 50 kmpl is desirable. Most 100-150cc scooters and motorbikes fall in this category. To derive the best mileage from your two-wheeler, drive at moderate speeds (45-50 kmph), service and maintain your bike at prescribed intervals, and remember to check the tyre pressure regularly.
Related: What third-party insurance means to your two-wheeler?
4. Ensure easy service and support
Noted brands such as Honda, Hero, and TVS try to provide good service at authorised service centres, as this is a benchmark of quality. Attention to detail is another necessary trait. The service centres should have the necessary hi-tech equipment to service a two-wheeler efficiently. Before buying a bike, do visit the service centre and see the equipment being used. Better still, read reviews online and check the star ratings of the centres.
5. Check availability of spare parts
This is a vital factor in the selection of your two-wheeler. Indian roads in general are notorious for causing wear and tear on vehicles. So, the availability of affordable spare parts should play a significant role in your selection.Having to wait many months to get a vital part can kill the experience of owning a dream bike, so verify this before putting down your money.
6. Evaluate the EMI options
Equated Monthly Instalments (EMIs) make it easy to own even an expensive bike. EMIs are especially ideal if you are a salaried employee. Go online and check out some great deals from various financial institutions. These days the bank representatives are available throughout the day in the showrooms to help you get the loan you need. Carry your bank statement for the past three months, or three months’ salary slip. You don’t even need to have an account with the bank in question; almost any bank can provide a two-wheeler loan. But check if the interest rates are competitive.
Related: Why you should consider long-term two-wheeler insurance
7. Apply for two-wheeler driving licence
Every state has a licence application portal, usually under the transport department. If you don’t have a licence to ride a two-wheeler, you must initially apply for a learner’s licence, which is valid for six months. During this time you can choose a test date and after clearing the test you will be granted a permanent licence. Remember there are separate categories for geared and ungeared two-wheelers. Further details are available at the local RTO.
Tip: Visit the RTO a day or two before your driving test and observe what the licence applicants are made to do, so you can be prepared.
8. Being environmentally conscious
Maintaining your bike after purchase is important for not only the functioning of the bike, but also the environment. So make sure the emission levels are always in check. The original PUC certificate is valid for a year, but if you use the right grade of oil and service the bike regularly, you won’t have any trouble meeting emission norms later.
You could also consider buying a battery/electric powered bike if you wish to promote a pollution-free environment. These ‘zero emission’ two-wheelers are ideal for in-city use if your daily run is limited. The absence of charging facilities is a deterrent at the moment in India, but there’s no doubt that electric vehicles are the future. Why you should get your two wheeler insured if you haven’t already
