subject: How To Test Ride A Bike [print this page] While choosing a bike, the most important step is to take a test ride. Riding the bike would give you a better picture of the product than what has been highlighted in the brochures. All showrooms have a bike allotted specifically for this purpose.
Most of the time, a test ride would mean a short trip within the vicinity of the showroom, usually on empty streets. Request the sales rep for a longer test route (about 3-5km), possibly on the main roads, where traffic is thrown into the mix. This should give you a realistic idea of how the bike will perform in real-world conditions.
While test-riding a bike, the following points should be considered:
1) Check if the bikes seating position suits your height. Youll be spending long hours on the saddle so make sure youre comfortable with the handlebar and foot pegs placement. This will prevent any discomfort and strain on the body while riding.
2) If you regularly ride with a pillion, make sure you sit on the rear seat to check if the ergonomics are comfortable. Pillion comfort is important as it affects the balance of the bike.
3) While taking the test ride, make sure to test the features that you are particular about. For example, if you are someone who is looking for smooth and responsive acceleration, make sure to test the bike and see if you find its acceleration up to your expectations.
4) Remember to test the braking power of the bike. It should be adequate to bring the bike to a stop safely from cruising speeds.
5) Test acceleration throughout all the gears. This can help you gauge the ability of the bike to overtake.
6) Ride over some badly surfaced or uneven roads and test the performance of the suspension.
7) Test the manoeuvrability of the bike by riding through traffic.
8) Test the feel of all the hand and foot levers (clutch, gear lever, and the front and rear brake levers).
8) Test the switchgear (horn, indicator, headlights, etc.) for performance.
9) Test all the extra features that come with the bike.
After testing all the shortlisted bikes, compare all of them once again. Now that you have been further enlightened about all the bikes, pick your top three choices of the lot. Choose the one that you feel will serve all your requirements. It is recommended to browse the internet for owner reports, so that you can get a first-hand account on the long-term performance of the bike.
