Sri Lanka Police have cautioned young riders against overspeeding on lightweight Indian motorcycles, warning that the practice has led to a rise in accidents.
Addressing the media, DIG W.P.J. Senadheera, in charge of the Police Traffic Control and Road Safety Division, said these motorcycles were introduced as an affordable option to meet public transport needs such as commuting to work, travelling to town, and dropping children at school.
However, he noted that many youths, including those below or just above 18 years of age, are now using them for high‑speed riding.
“These bikes are light in weight and fuel‑efficient, but when ridden at extreme speed and suddenly braked, they lose control. Unlike heavier Japanese motorcycles with stronger braking systems, Indian bikes tend to skid or fail to respond at high speed,” DIG Senadheera explained.
Police have received complaints of accidents caused by overspeeding and sudden braking, where riders were thrown off the motorcycle and run over by oncoming vehicles.
DIG Senadheera stressed that these motorcycles were not intended for racing or stunts such as wheeling.
He urged young riders to refrain from dangerous riding practices, emphasizing that the vehicles were introduced to ease transport needs, not to encourage reckless behavior. (Newswire)