Learn how to slow down your bike after an unexpected brake failure 31^st January 2022

We can rave about the look and mileage of our bike's engine, but, at the end of the day, it all comes down to how efficient it is on the road. Driving in a country like India, where the roads and the path walks have no clear distinction, we might encounter various instances where we have to dodge a huge pothole or the kids playing on the street. So, having an efficient brake system is vital to ensure the safety of yourself and others.

The properties, characteristics, and behaviour of brakes do not always remain the same. These can be influenced by temperature, operating habits, operating durations, and effects of interconnected parts, sometimes leading to brake failure.

In situations where you come across a brake failure, being prompt on your toes will help you avoid any accidents.

1. Maintain your calm:
It's common knowledge that maintaining your composure under pressure helps you navigate any problem. The same is applicable for the time that you are on the road. If possible, taking your bike to a less busy road should be the first step to avoid crashing into people or vehicles.

2. Do not turn off the engine:
Your first instinct could be to turn off the engine and let the bike stop, but this can be extremely dangerous. You need to control the situation to avoid traffic crashing into you. So having a constant acceleration in this situation can prevent a crash.

3. Stick to the road and not the sides:
Without the brakes, your bike will be difficult to manoeuvre. Sticking to the sides might present you with uneven roads. Instead, wait for the bike to slow down before pulling over to the side of the road. Only under hefty traffic conditions should you consider going to the side of the road while your bike is still retaining speed.

4. Use your gears:
Surprisingly, gears can assist you in slowing down your bike in a situation where brakes aren't responding. You need to be alert and immediately start lowering your bike's gears. This will create a mechanical resistance from the engine opposing the motion, causing the bike to slow down. Using this method can help you control the bike and prevent the situation from escalating. Once your bike slows down, you can pull it over to a safe place and then shut the engine.

5. Use your horn:
Many times, we come across people relentlessly honking their horns in traffic jams. While that might sound annoying in most cases, do not shy away from alerting people on the road. Since they are not aware of your situation, it is best to attract attention and to be careful.

These are some things that you can focus on if your brakes fail. Road safety is paramount whether you are driving or a pedestrian. Be alert while handling the bars, focus on the road, and resist overspeeding.

Regular check-ups and servicing ensure both you and your bike are covered. Having bike insurance can add value to your experiences. So, consider getting bike insurance online to protect you against damages, third-party legal liability cover, and 24/7 assistance for emergencies.

Click HERE to buy bike insurance online.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.