Buying Your First Motorcycle

A motorcycle is much simpler in design than a car but it is still complex enough that you have to be careful when purchasing the first one. This will be the first two wheels you ever own, so there are numerous details that you have to take into consideration. Whatever the main reason behind the purchase, whether it be the sense of freedom a bike offers or simply a faster transportation method, a motorbike should be carefully picked to serve your needs. We have no doubt that you know a thing or two about motorcycles but when economics meets bike passion , it is better to keep a cool head and read the following pieces of advice.

Buy used or new?

The first dilemma that you face is whether to buy a used motorcycle or a brand new one. A secondhand bike will definitely cost less, in some cases more than half the retail price, so this is an ideal solution for those with a limited budget. Of course, a lower the price often implies lower quality, depending on the state the bike’s in and the mileage. In fact, it is hard to determine the condition a used motorbike is in, so always ask the seller if it would be OK to take the bike to a mechanic before finalizing the deal. Even if you manage to acquire a machine in decent shape, it will definitely break down more often than a new bike and it will serve you for a shorter period. If you are a rookie driver, then the bike is going to take some beating which a used bike is ideal for.

Talking of new motorcycles, they come at a price that is too high for some. However, you get a warranty for your cash and all repairs are paid for several years. Basically, with a new bike, you know what you are buying and you have a strong guarantee from the manufacturer that your machine will be reliable. The final choice is up to you and your needs (and your budget, whether you like it or not).

Ergonomics

We know that you are probably going to be attracted by chrome parts or a wicked decal on the bike but the first feature that you should pay attention to on a prospective bike is ergonomics. In other words, the motorcycle has to fit the shape of your body the best as possible. It might seem like an odd thing to state but choosing a bike is like choosing a watch that until you put it on your hand you don’t know whether it will fit. Take the motorbike for a spin around the block to see how the seat and the handlebars fit you. The last thing you need is for the motorcycle to cause pain in the wrists and back. Remember, you are purchasing a bike to enjoy in it; not to visit the doctor. There are bikes that fit people of all sizes, so don’t buy something that simply does not fit you.

Browse extensively

Back at the end of the 19th century when the first bikes appeared, you didn’t have much of a choice but today things couldn’t be more different. Firstly, there are numerous places where you can order a motorcycle from, ranging from retailer’s showroom, all the way to Internet auction sites. Make full use of the market and browse extensively to find that perfect bike. There are websites such as MX Store that sell riding gear, bike parts, and tools used for maintenance of your two-wheeler, which is a great thing because you can shop for everything you need for your first motorcycle in one place. They even ship abroad, how cool is that!

Secondly, there are many types of motorbikes to choose from, from pizza delivery mopeds, to those large choppers built for the open road. Like we stated earlier, you need to know what you want and where will you drive the motorcycle, so include these preference in the search. If you drove a bike before that you liked, you can start by searching for that particular model or brand.

Overestimating your riding skills

The minimum driving age as stipulated by almost every country in the world is there for safety reasons. Each vehicle requires a certain skill to ride it safely, so you shouldn’t buy something that you are not sure how to drive. For instance, you would never buy a dump truck if you have only ridden a passenger car before. The same logic is behind purchasing a motorbike: if you rode only scooters, why buy a chopper that has too much power that you will find hard to control. You need to know what you can and can’t do in traffic, so choose a motorbike according to your driving skills. A bike that has 600cc might seem impressive but you should really opt for a less “aggressive” motorcycle for your first purchase. The second bike you buy could be more powerful but you have to start slow, literally.

Choose a bike you’ll enjoy riding

Unless your purchase is for commercial reasons, the main reason behind choosing to buy a motorcycle over a car or a hi-end bicycle is enjoyment. There is nothing wrong with being passionate about motorcycles as this passion is the driving engine, pun intended, behind your purchase. Having taken into consideration all the previously stated point, don’t forget to have fun while riding the bike you like. If the machine is ideal, but if you don’t feel anything once the air goes through your hair at top speed, then that particular bike might not be for you. If you are indecisive, you can always bring a friend along to tell you how you look while sitting on that motorcycle.

Buying your first motorcycle is exhilarating and challenging at the same time. You need to subdue your thrill of buying the bike of your dreams as you take into consideration everything listed.