5 Things to Consider When Buying Your First Motorcycle
If you’re ready to hop on a bike for the first time, make sure you choose the right entry-level motorcycle that suits your lifestyle. Along with following tips for buying your first motorcycle, new riders have plenty of models to choose from on the marketplace. To help you out, Cycle Trader is sharing five things to consider when buying your first motorcycle.
1. Buying a New or Used Motorcycle
The first question you should ask yourself when shopping is whether you want to buy a new or used motorcycle for sale. There are pros and cons to both options. While purchasing a brand-new bike means you’ll be paying more than you would for a used bike, a new motorcycle also provides peace of mind with the full history of the bike and a full factory warranty if anything goes wrong. With a used bike, you’ll save money, but should research the bike’s previous ownership and use it to see if there are any signs that the bike may have issues on the road. You may also be more comfortable with dents, dings, and wear and tear with a used bike as you learn to ride—just keep in mind how this may affect the resale value.
2. Keep Your Bike for the Long Run or Trade Up
An entry-level bike for beginners can range anywhere from a new or used sport motorcycle to a scooter, depending on how much power you want and what you’re using your bike for. You may opt to learn on a small, light-weight motorcycle before trading up to something larger while getting your license. Check out the listings available online to compare what’s out there on the market. You may find a deal on a great bike that you want to train on before upgrading to a motorcycle that requires greater driving skills. You also have a chance to try out different bike styles to figure out which you like best while you learn.
3. Set Your Budget
When you’ve figured out whether to buy a new or used motorcycle, consider how much money you can afford to spend. You should take into account registration and insurance costs and put aside money for essential gear, supplies, and resources every new biker needs. If you’re buying from a dealership, make a note of whether the advertised price includes the costs associated with getting the bike ready for the road, such as delivery charges, registration, and insurance. If you’re searching for a used bike, consider models that may be a little bit more than your budget. You may be able to negotiate on a price to get a better deal on a bike that you really want.
4. Pick a Bike That Complements You
Once you’ve decided whether you want a new or used bike for the long run or short-term, and how much you want to spend, you should decide on a motorcycle that complements you and your lifestyle. There are a number of design features you need to take into consideration; for example, a bike’s seat height and how far you have to reach to get a grip on the handlebars. Your weight and size will affect your bike choice. If you’re heavier or bigger, a cruiser may be best for your lifestyle rather than a small cafe racer or similar street bike. If you have any experience learning on a new or used dirt bike, you may opt for a faster motorcycle when you start. But if it’s all new to you, a lower power bike with less torque might be what you’re after.
5. Have an Idea of How You’ll Use Your Motorcycle
Lastly, it’s important to have an understanding of how you’ll use your motorcycle before you make your purchase. Consider if it’s a way to get around on a daily commute through the city, or a bike that will be great for weekend getaways with fellow bikers. Keep in mind how far you’ll be riding, if you’ll be cruising around at night or taking long journeys, and if you’ll be using your bike during winter and throughout the rest of the year. You may need to make additional purchases like windscreens or handguards if you’re riding in conditions with rough weather. This will set you in the right direction when it comes to picking out add-ons or accessories for your bike.
Choosing the right bike doesn’t have to be difficult as a new rider. Weigh the pros and cons of buying new versus used when comparing listings; work out a budget and try and look out for hidden costs; make sure your skills and size are aligned with the bike you’re after; and know how you’ll be using your motorcycle. If you’re ready to purchase your next new or used bike, check out all the listings nationwide on CycleTrader.com.
Ryan Miller
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