Top 10 reasons why two-wheelers are preferred with the growing population

The relevance and importance of two-wheelers have increased leaps and bounds in India for multiple reasons. Here are the top reasons why.

Statistics state that it takes 149% more time than usual to commute during peak hours in India's biggest cities. The factors leading to this traffic congestion in India are a rapid increase in population, poor road infrastructure, inadequate public transport system, and increased use of 4 wheelers. A personal vehicle offers the convenience of driving to the destination at the preferred time and taking detours as intended. Two-wheelers are becoming more popular, and not just because they are relatively easy on the pocket. Here are reasons for the increasing popularity of two-wheelers:

1. Better mileage and lower maintenance
 

Compared to cars, two-wheelers offer better mileage; the average mileage of cars does not typically exceed 20 km – 25 km per litre of petrol. However, for two-wheelers, it can be 50 km/litre and can go up to 80 – 90 km per litre in the case of bikes. With the cost of fuel spiralling upwards, bikes can be a saviour; they can lead to a substantial amount of savings over the long haul. 

2. Better for Indian road conditions
 

Cars are not built for a rugged commute; two-wheelers (scooters and bikes) can deal with a higher ruggedness than cars. Given the road conditions in India, two-wheelers are a better bet than cars. The wear and tear in the case of two-wheelers are not as severe as that of cars. This will, in turn, reduce the maintenance cost of two-wheelers as compared to that of cars. Improper maintenance can lead to severe wear and tear; this might reduce the vehicle's resale value. Often, it has been seen that two-wheelers are not replaced as frequently as cars unless it is a lifestyle choice.

3. Speed and reliability
 

While mileage is one aspect, the speed at which one can commute (during non-traffic congestion days) is higher in the case of two-wheelers. The element of 'pick-up,' which is a measure of the time taken by the vehicle to move from speed 0 to higher, is an important feature one evaluates while buying a two-wheeler, particularly a bike. These two-wheelers, designed for a faster commute, are also intended to uphold friction and balance during such a quick commute. 

4. Improved design and safety standards

The growing demand for two-wheelers has brought in a range of high-end options tested for the highest safety standards. Many accessories are now available, enabling the rider to drive reasonably high speed with necessary safety equipment. If you intend to ride your two-wheeler at optimal speed, it is wise to invest in such safety gear. Some of the high-end two-wheelers (bikes) are designed to match international standards. To facilitate better speed and safety, the wheels are stress-tested and optimised for grip and width. 

5. Ability to manoeuvre in heavy traffic

In a country like India, manoeuvring in heavy traffic is a skill that any commuter must acquire. Two-wheelers are probably the only types of vehicles that can squeeze amidst the numerous private cars, buses, and autos to ensure they make their way to the destination on time. Two-wheelers win by a wide margin when compared with four-wheelers. 

6. Ease of travel
 

Two-wheelers offer almost all the benefits that a car has to offer, except that they do not protect you against harsh weather. Two-wheelers provide the convenience of travelling at one's will, taking narrow roads, manoeuvring effectively to reach the destination on time. Although they do not protect you against rains, you probably could survive the pothole/puddle on the road when on a two-wheeler due to the better design of tyres. 

7. Relatively less difficulty in parking

Finding a parking space for a four-wheeler can be a nightmare at many places; two-wheelers have it relatively easy since they occupy a smaller space. Many two-wheelers can be stacked close together, whereas, for a car, there needs to be sufficient space between them to ensure that the door on either side can be opened. 

8. Affordable 

A two-wheeler costs lesser as compared to a four-wheeler; certain low-end two-wheelers are targeted towards the lower strata. This empowers the lower income group to also aspire for better living by owning an asset in the form of a two-wheeler. It also elevates their social status and increases the feel-good factor. 

9. Easy credit availability

Two-wheeler loans are specially curated to align with the income levels of the borrower. IDFC FIRST Bank offers Two Wheeler Loans, which can be availed of with minimum hassle: the paperwork is minimal, the time between application and disbursement is short. The processing fee is very low, and the interest rates start at 9% p. a, which is very competent.

10. Sheer convenience

With overcrowded public transport and social distancing norms in the post-Covid era, people prefer to commute in their own vehicles. This is where bikes and two-wheelers have gained tremendous popularity, especially in tier 2 and tier 3 cities where public transport might not be very convenient and easy to use.

Thus, owning a two-wheeler does not only make practical sense, but it is also lucrative from a financial perspective. To finance your two-wheeler need, consider opting for an IDFC FIRST Bank Two Wheeler Loan.

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