Riding a motorcycle adds 10,000 pogi/ganda points to any person, especially if you ride with the proper gear. Yet, motorcyclists are sometimes viewed negatively by society in general and are, at times, subjected to discrimination at some commercial establishments or even on the road. Indeed, people couldn’t possibly judge us by our appearance, having all that pogi/ganda points. So, are we more likely to be measured by our actions?

As the year ends, let us discard our bad habits and adopt the proper riding mindset to help uplift the image of the Filipino motorcyclist. Here are a few more New Year’s Resolutions we could add to our initial list.

I will always use my indicators when changing directions – For car drivers, motorcyclists are zippy little buggers that are unpredictable on the road. Let us clearly communicate our intentions by always using our indicators when changing directions. You already paid for them, might as well use them. The same goes for your side mirrors.

I will never pass a vehicle on the shoulder (curbside) 

Passing a vehicle on the shoulder is like having casual unprotected sex. Exciting, yes, but sooner or later, you will regret it. The vehicle you’re trying to pass might be dropping off a passenger or making a right turn. Raise your hand if you’ve been accidentally spat on before by a jeepney passenger riding shotgun.

I will never use my phone while on the move

This is self-explanatory, yet we still see motorcycles sporting handlebar-mounted phone holders with little cocktail umbrellas that shield their screens from glare. You may use a Bluetooth helmet audio system for navigation.

I will never make illegal modifications to my motorcycle

An open pipe doesn’t really significantly improve your bike's performance. It just loudly announces to the world that you are a pretentious wannabe who is too cheap to buy a proper performance bike. Please don’t change the color of your tail light as well. It is red for a reason, and it's against the law.

I will never drink and ride

This is quite relevant, especially during the holidays when we are attending parties left and right. There’s nothing wrong with getting hammered once in a while, but leave your bike at home so you can go on attending parties the following year.

Is there anything else you want to add to the list? We could still do a part 3. 

Also Read: 'Kamote' no more: New Year's resolutions for the responsible motorcyclist