Check new guidelines for two-wheelers; mandatory for all motorbikes to have handholds

The central government has amended the Central Motor Vehicle norms making it compulsory for all motorbikes to have handholds and footrests along with protective gears on the rear wheel serving as 'saree guards'.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways informed the Central Motor Vehicles (seventh amendment) Rules 2020 on Monday and accordingly delivered a gazette notification amending the Central Motor Vehicles Rules 1989.

HERE ARE THE NEW RULES FOR TWO-WHEELERS

• Makers of two-wheelers having a provision for a pillion rider should confirm handholds on the side of the motor cycle or behind the driver seat.
• Along giving footrests for pillion riders on both sides of the vehicle, bike makers should give protective devices covering half of the rear wheel to avert the clothes of the person sitting on the pillion getting entwined in it.
• The Ministry has also given the guidelines for putting lighter containers in the bike. The length of the container should be 550 mm, width 510 ml and height shall not cross the limit of 500 mm.
• If the container is positioned at the place of the previous rider, only the driver will be agreed. Meaning no other person will be able to sit on that bike. The government will however alter these rules from time to time.
• The government previously had issued new guidelines regarding tyres. Under this, a tyre pressure monitoring system has been recommended for vehicles up to a maximum weight of 3.5 tons. Through the sensor in this system, the driver gets the data about the condition of the air in the tyre.
• The Ministry has also suggested tyre repair kits. After its introduction, the vehicle will not require extra tyres.