Highway Riding Tips part - 1

Highway Riding Tips in Bangladesh: A Guide for Safer & Smarter Journeys

Highway riding in Bangladesh can be both exciting and challenging. The long stretches of road, scenic views, and faster pace of travel offer a sense of freedom that city rides can’t match. However, our highways also come with unique risks—mixed traffic, unpredictable road users, and varying road conditions mean that riders must be extra cautious.

Whether you’re planning a Dhaka–Chattogram trip, heading towards Sylhet’s green hills, or cruising down the Padma Bridge, here are some essential highway riding tips for Bangladeshi bikers.

1. Know the Rules & Regulations

• License & Papers: Always carry your driving license, registration, tax token, and insurance documents. Police checks are common on highways.
• Helmet Law: Wear a BIS/ISI/DOT/ECE-approved helmet (not just for yourself but also for your pillion).
• Speed Limits: Bangladesh does not always have clearly marked speed limits, but maintaining a safe 60–80 km/h on highways is wise.

2. Prepare Your Bike Before the Ride

• Tyres & Brakes: Make sure tyres are properly inflated and brakes are responsive. Highway braking distances are longer.
• Lights & Horn: A working headlight (low/high beam) and horn are crucial for communicating with buses, trucks, and autos.
• Fuel Up: Don’t assume you’ll find a fuel station every few kilometers—especially on stretches like Dhaka–Khulna or Rangpur roads.

3. Ride Defensively

Highways in Bangladesh are shared by buses, trucks, CNGs, motorcycles, vans, and sometimes even rickshaws or cattle. Stay alert.

• Maintain Safe Distance: Keep at least 3–4 seconds of space from the vehicle in front.
• Avoid Blind Spots: Especially around buses and trucks, who may suddenly swerve without signaling.
• Overtake Smartly: Only overtake when you have a clear view and enough space. Never cut in front of a speeding bus or truck.
• Lane change: Never change lane frequently on the high way.

4. Be Extra Careful at Night

Night rides are riskier because of poor lighting and reckless driving.

• Use reflective gear and ride with headlights on.
• Watch out for trucks with broken tail lights or vehicles without proper indicators.
• Avoid unnecessary night rides if possible.

Part - 2, Read more tips.