Wheelbase in Two Wheeler Insurance: Important Factors to Consider

Posted on: Mar 11, 2022 | | Written by:

Wheelbase in Two Wheeler Insurance: Important Factors to Consider

The wheelbase is an important term related to your bike which is simple to understand and useful to know. A bike’s wheelbase is the distance between the centre points where the front and rear wheels touch the ground. If you ever notice, you will find that different types and models of bikes have different wheelbases. For example, a cruising bike will have a longer wheelbase and a sports bike will have a shorter wheelbase. A wheelbase indicates the dynamic characteristics of a bike like a ride and handling. The length of the wheelbase is decided as per its usage and purpose. So, whichever type of bike and wheelbase you choose, always get a two wheeler insurance policy first for your bike.

Importance of Wheelbase in Bikes

Both long and short wheelbases have their own advantages and serve different purposes. Let us look at the importance of wheelbase in bikes,

1. Affects Stability

The length of the wheelbase directly affects the stability of your bike. Bikes with a longer wheelbase are more stable because they have more body structure and more support. Such bikes give good driveability at high-speed. However, taking turns or changing direction becomes a little difficult with a long wheelbase because it increases the turning radius. On the other hand, a bike with a shorter wheelbase is comparatively less stable, especially at high speed.

2. Affects Agility

A bike with a shorter wheelbase can quickly move in any direction. For this reason, sports bikes have a shorter wheelbase. A shorter wheelbase allows the bike to corner faster, making it less aerodynamic. Such bikes are therefore less stable with an increased risk of accidents.

3. Affects Manoeuvrability

A shorter wheelbase gives more agility but less stability, making the bike more manoeuvrable. Similarly, a long wheelbase makes the bike stable but less agile, making it less manoeuvrable. An important factor to consider in high-traffic areas.

4. Distributes Weight

A longer wheelbase makes a bike heavier with most of its weight concentrated in front. For this reason, a long wheelbase bike leans forward. A short wheelbase bike is light and compact, which lets it move around swiftly.

How to determine the optimum wheelbase for your bike?

The optimum wheelbase for your bike mainly depends on its use, purpose, and your preference. There are a number of bikes available with both long and short wheelbases. How a manufacturer decides the length of the wheelbase for a model depends on many technical factors like ground clearance, wheel size, etc. But as a bike owner, the following factors will help you determine the best wheelbase for your bike.

1. Use:

Intended use and where it will be operated are the primary factors in determining the best wheelbase for your bike. A longer wheelbase bike will have more space, stability, and comfortable driveability. While a short wheelbase bike will be more agile, better at high-speed cornering, and can easily fit in tight parking spaces. Choose one on the basis of how and for what purpose you are going to use your bike. For touring purposes, a long wheelbase is a good choice while a short wheelbase is more suitable if you want to have some fun and racing adventure. The terrain where you are going to drive also matters.

2. Aesthetics:

The length of the wheelbase also depends on how the manufacturer wants a bike to look. A bike’s appeal and how it is marketed are important factors in deciding the length of the wheelbase. Always remember that with aesthetics viability should not be ignored.

3. Costs:

A longer wheelbase means a longer frame and a heavy body which will change the cost. Also, include the cost of your two wheeler insurance policy because depending on your usage and bike dynamics, the cost of insurance will also change.

Finally, select a wheelbase that is viable as well as suitable enough for your purpose and budget.

Safety Recommendations for Bike Owners

● Always wear a helmet while riding a bike.

● Regularly maintain your bike and never delay any repairs.

● Always maintain a safe distance from the nearby vehicles while driving.

● Use good quality fuel.

● Do not over speed and drive sensibly in high-traffic areas

● Follow traffic rules and road safety instructions.

● Get your bike insured with the best two wheeler insurance policy.

● Never use your phone while driving.

● Be careful at turns and crossings.

● Always use bright colour bands or helmets while driving during low visibility.

Conclusion

In India, two wheelers are the most common mode of transport throughout the country. There are many types available for different budgets and purposes. With diverse terrains, traffic conditions, and even more diverse requirements, it is important to understand the significance of wheelbase and its impact on the performance, stability, and handling of your bike. The information provided in this article will help you in making an informed decision while purchasing a bike. Irrespective of the bike you choose, always get a comprehensive two wheeler insurance policy for enhanced coverage

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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