While motorists are all expected to follow standard traffic rules and regulations, such as following traffic signs, obeying traffic lights, driving while intoxicated, texting and driving, to name a few, there are many unwritten dos and don’ts of the road that drivers are expected to be familiar with such as practicing road courtesy, slowing down when approaching intersections and pedestrian crossings even if there is no one crossing. These are standard road safety precautions drivers and even non-drivers must know.
On the other hand, for motorcycle riders, road rules may apply differently and may have different rules and regulations for them exclusively. These unwritten road rules are not specific laws requiring bikers to follow but habits that they need to integrate to improve riding practices to stay safe.
These unwritten rules also show motorcycle riders’ culture and practices that show their respect for their community and their love for motorcycles. Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI), the No.1 motorcycle manufacturer in the country, shares some unwritten motorcycle road rules for riders to create better experiences.
Know Your Motorcycle Language. When riding, riders cannot talk to their passenger since they need to wear full-face helmets and, in these times, face masks as well. Through the years, motorcycle riders began developing their form of sign language to communicate with each other while riding or at stoplights.
If you are a first-time rider, you may notice other riders in front of you waving to get ahead or giving you a thumbs up or a peace sign at stoplights to say hello. Other riders pointing to your side stand means you forgot to disengage your side stand before moving off, which may cause serious accident. This form of communication helps riders signal each other and an excellent way to form camaraderie, as well.
Road Courtesy is for Everyone – Even Bikers. Always practice defensive driving and make sure other cars and motorcycles have plenty of room to ride on the road. Do not hesitate to signal them to get ahead of you or only letting them pass by. Despite the tempting speed and enjoyment motorcycles offer, always remember that you are not the only rider on the road.
Do Not Drive Angry or in a Hurry. Safety first should always be your concern. Driving when emotional or upset or in a hurry, puts you and others at risk. One of the most tempting factors when riding motorcycles is the speed and adrenaline it gives to the riders. Avoid the temptation of indulging that adrenaline rush. It is always better to be safe than sorry.
Leave Enough Room When Parking. Motorcycles are not like cars that occupy a great deal of space on a parking slot. Still, parking it improperly can be inconsiderate to others. When you park your bike, make sure that you leave other riders enough space to park next to you or room to mount on their motorbikes. One of the motorcycle community’s unique things is that riders respect and understand each other’s needs. Hence, they work together to satisfy it.
See A Rider Needing Assistance? Stop. Motorcycle riders pride themselves on being a community that shares the joy of mobility that their motorcycles give them. When you see a motorcycle rider at the side of the street needing help on his bike, give him the kindness of sparing some of your time to fix his bike and get back on the road.
One day, you will be the one on the side of the road, looking for help from a fellow rider. No one knows motorcycles better than bikers themselves. Do not let the joy of mobility stop on your end, and make sure that everyone who wants a piece of that passion gets their share.
These unwritten rules are only five of the many more that give riders an unforgettable riding experience. What better way to experience the joy of mobility provided by motorcycles than with a bike that not only makes you stand out on the road with innovative features but also lets you experience the camaraderie of the community.
The All-New AirBlade150 is a stylish motorcycle that boasts of its powerful 150cc SOHC liquid-cooled engine for prime acceleration superiority in stop-and-go situations.
The All-New AirBlade150 also has Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) which prevent wheels from locking up, All-LED Lighting System including headlight, position light and tail light for excellent road illumination, and Smart Key with Answer Back System & Anti-Theft Alarm.
It also includes a spacious 22.7L Utility Box that can accommodate helmet with enough room for personal belongings with a Power Socket and LED Lamp inside. It also has a Digital Meter Panel that keeps track of your riding with an easy-to-read display system, Park Brake Lock that gives added safety and convenience when on a standstill, and it has a fuel efficiency rating of 47 kilometers per liter.
The All-New AirBlade150 comes in three awesome colors: Matte Galaxy Black Metallic, Candy Caribbean Blue Sea, and Candy Ross Red. It is available at all of Honda’s dealerships with a suggested retail price of PHP109,000.
There is nothing to fear when entering into the new adventure of riding, especially with HPI’sThe All-New AirBlade150 being only one of its variety of motorcycles that’s in line with their “ONE DREAM” campaign, which aims to fulfill the dreams of Filipino riders through the joy of mobility.
