A dangerous bike wheelie performed on the Bengaluru–Mysuru Highway has once again raised the issue of reckless riding and road safety on Karnataka highways. The incident, recorded on camera and publicised on social media, has drawn criticism from drivers and others who say it is dangerous not only for the rider but for the innocent commuters on the road as well.
Bengaluru–Mysuru Expressway and the highway network around it are one of Karnataka’s busiest road corridors, with thousands of vehicles passing through each day. Although the better road network has cut travel time between the two cities, motorists have been warned often against speeding, driving dangerously, and going into stunts on the road.
The motorcycle wheelie has resulted in a motorcyclist who’s seen to have taken the front wheel of the bike off the road and rode faster in the past, even when travelling at high speed. The rider’s control of the vehicle is greatly reduced, and the risks of a car accident increase by doing so (in the wheelie). A single mistake in a wheelie can cause the motorbike to fall on its side, collide with other vehicles, or even crash into other vehicles and die.
The experts on road safety say that helmets are not only optional accessories but are essential protective equipment for road safety. A helmet can substantially reduce the risk of severe head injuries when a crash occurs. Despite regular road safety awareness campaigns to stop people from being distracted, most of the riders fail to take safety precautions, and pillion riders are still seen on the road without helmets.
Public roads are not where stunt performances take place, traffic officials have always said. Dangerous manoeuvres like wheelies, zig-zag riding, racing, and overspeeding violate traffic rules and carry heavy penalties. More importantly, those violations can have life-changing effects on riders, passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists.
The message of road safety authorities is clear: “Cool for five seconds, regret for a lifetime.” What may appear to be an exciting stunt for social media attention can quickly turn into a tragedy. Making a split-second mistake could lead to permanent injuries, disability, or even death.
Dangerous wheelie spotted in Bengaluru Mysuru Bengaluru Highway
— Karnataka Portfolio (@karnatakaportf) August 13, 2026
Helmet is not a choice. It’s protection. 🪖. COOL FOR 5 SECONDS…
REGRET FOR A LIFETIME ?
This post is purely about road safety for the person riding and for everyone sharing the road.
Let's create awareness, not… pic.twitter.com/A9X3lOnbCg
Local government and road safety campaigners are calling on citizens to create awareness, not to squabble online. The emphasis should be on riding safely and responsibly and for every road user to know the dangers of reckless driving.
Experts also stress that a helmet should be worn by all riders, regardless of the distance. Pillion riders need to wear certified helmets. Safe riding habits, adherence to speed limits, and respect for the rules of the road can drastically reduce the number of vehicle accidents.
Because Karnataka is investing in better road infrastructure, the responsibility of keeping it safe lies with everyone on the road. I believe getting there just a few minutes earlier is not worth risking life. Riding safely, having proper safety gear on hand, and complying with traffic laws are the best ways to keep an accident from happening.
The Bengaluru–Mysuru Highway incident is a further reminder that a single mistake can be the cause of a disaster. The fine imposed by authorities is the immediate impact, but the real cost of reckless riding is much higher. Road safety is everyone’s job, and every rider has a part to play to make Karnataka’s roads safer.
