Choosing your first motorcycle can be both thrilling and overwhelming due to the wide range of options and confusing terminology. It’s essential for new riders to make an informed decision that suits their needs and preferences. To simplify the process, let’s divide it into three parts: where to begin, how to narrow down your options, and deciding between new and used motorcycles. Follow these steps to kickstart your motorcycling journey with confidence and excitement.
The First Question To Ask Yourself: What Kind of Riding Do You Want To Do?
Motorcycles come in various types, each customized to different riding styles and purposes.
– Cruisers: Known for their classic long, low-slung appearance, cruisers are designed for relaxed rides. They typically have a low seat height, making it easier for beginners to reach the ground. Cruisers are ideal for leisurely cruising on highways and city streets.
– Sport bikes: If you enjoy speed and sharp handling, sport bikes might be your preference. These motorcycles are built for high performance and are replicas of race bikes. However, their high power and aggressive ergonomics might not suit all beginners.
– Standard bikes: These motorcycles offer a natural and neutral riding position and lack extensive fairings. They are versatile and well-suited for various riding styles, making them popular among beginners.
– Adventure-tourers and dual-sports: Adventure-tourers are larger bikes built for both on-road and off-road excursions, making them suitable for longer trips. Dual-sport bikes are more like street-legal dirt bikes, offering a lighter option for beginners who want some off-road capabilities.
Consider your riding preferences, whether leisurely cruising, spirited performance, or off-road adventures, and choose a motorcycle type that aligns with your interests.
Narrowing the List: Factors To Consider
Once you know the type of motorcycle you want, it’s time to narrow down the options. As a beginner, specific attributes make a bike more suitable for your needs:
– Light weight: A lighter motorcycle is generally easier to handle, especially for beginners still developing their riding skills.
– Modest power: Bikes with moderate power output are more forgiving and manageable for newcomers. Avoid high-performance bikes with excessive horsepower until you gain more experience.
– Neutral handling characteristics: A motorcycle with stable and predictable handling will instill confidence and ensure a smoother learning curve.
– Feet on the ground: Look for a bike where you can comfortably place both feet on the ground when seated. This makes it easier to balance the motorcycle at stops and slow speeds.
Remember that the attributes mentioned above might vary based on height and body type, so choose a motorcycle that fits you comfortably.
New vs. Used: Why Your First Bike Should Be Used
Now that you have a clearer idea of the type of motorcycle you want, you might be tempted to purchase a brand-new bike, especially if you have a particular model in mind. However, there are several compelling reasons why your first motorcycle should be a used one:
– Cost: New motorcycles depreciate rapidly, and buying a brand-new bike can be a significant financial investment. Opting for a used bike will save you money, and you can sell it later without a substantial loss if you decide to upgrade to a different model.
– Learning curve: As a new rider, you’ll likely make a few mistakes while learning. Dropping a used bike is less heartbreaking than damaging a shiny new one.
– Evolving preferences: Your initial idea of your dream bike may change as you gain more riding experience. Starting with a used motorcycle allows you to explore your preferences without a significant financial commitment.
– Versatility: As you progress as a rider, you may discover various riding styles and want to try different types of motorcycles. Owning a used bike allows you to sell it without much loss and explore other options.