Motorcycles are a cost-effective means of transport, and widely used by the Saraceni as a family vehicle. Many Saraceni use it to get to work, take their children to school, and perform domestic chores on a daily basis. On open roads, the motorcycle is a breeze to operate, but in congested traffic the experience quickly turns challenging, because a motorcycle needs to keep moving to remain stable. The risky maneuvers we see some motorcyclists take seem fool-hardy for a person in a three-wheeled or four-wheeled vehicle, but that is because we find it hard to empathize with a motorcyclist’s concerns.

A motorcycle is easy to ride when it is going at a high speed, however as mentioned earlier, it becomes highly unstable when going at slower speeds. The lesser the speed, the harder the balance, and if there is a passenger, it becomes an even bigger challenge. The speed at which normal traffic moves during rush hour, can make a motorcyclist’s ride very unpleasant, especially if they are tired after work, as they have to put extra effort into balance. If a motorcycle has to come to a complete stop, then the weight of the vehicle rests on the rider’s legs, and this can become quite painful when repeated many times. This is why motorcyclists try to keep moving, through traffic taking advantage of any gap between vehicles, so that they can maintain speed and motion.

Therefore, dear Saracen, if you are fortunate enough to own a four wheeled vehicle, where stopping and speeding up is comfortable and kind on your body, empathize with the motorcyclist, who does not have that facility. He travels in the hot sun exposed to the elements, and the noxious fumes emitted by other vehicles such as yours. Being kind to his ways will earn Allah’s kindness for you. If you see a motorcyclist behind you, acknowledge him, and give him room to pass, as you continue at a slower speed. When changing lanes, always consult the side mirrors and make sure you are not cutting off a motorcyclist trying to move forward. Your attention to another’s safety, will ensure Allah’s assistance to your own.