How to: Get the Most out of a Demo Day
Motorcycle manufacturers will often host demo days through local retailers that allow the opportunity to “try before you buy”, either on public roads or private racetracks. A motorcycle demo day can be a very useful tool in the purchasing journey. They offer the ability to see, hear, and experience a motorcycle before spending your hard-earned pay check.
You may be surprised to discover that you don’t like a certain bike as much as you thought you might, or, be pleasantly impressed by a motorcycle that wasn’t even on your radar.
Your experience with each bike will be limited, so we’ve compiled some tips to make the most of your time.
Before
Research the Lineup
Identify which models will be available and make a note of the ones on your short list of considerations. Look up specs and pricing beforehand to narrow down the ones worth spending time on and have questions prepared.
Gear Up
Some events will provide gear, but wearing the jacket, gloves, helmet, and boots you’re used to will allow you to focus on the task at hand.
Arrive Early
The latest and greatest bikes often get booked up first, so an early arrival will allow you to get first pick. It may also allow the opportunity to get acquainted with the staff and have repeat rides.
During
Demo rides often feature a small group that includes a leader and a sweep rider. Rider ability, experience, and behavior will vary greatly. Ride defensively in a controlled, predictable manner. It is unlikely that you will be able to experience the outward capabilities of the motorcycle in this environment. Try to focus on safely evaluating the motorcycle rather than showing off or trying to see how fast it can go.
Elements to Focus On:
- Riding position, fitment and ergonomics
- Mirror placement and functionality at speed
- Low-speed balance and confidence at stops
- Engine character and sound
- Throttle smoothness
- Gear changes and engagement of neutral
- Clutch and brake feel
- Suspension and handling
- Feature functionality and ease of use
- Heat management
- Aerodynamics and wind buffeting for your height
- Suitability for your needs
- Fun factor
Compare and Contrast
Try to ride competitors back-to-back under the closest possible conditions in order to best evaluate. Impressions become clearer when circumstances and similar and you are able to focus on the motorcycle.
After the Ride
Take Notes
Your memory can become unreliable when testing many products in a day, so a reminder helps. Smartphones make it easy to draft notes that you can review later if you forget. Did the engine drone at certain rpm? Did your legs get hot while sitting at a stoplight? Are luggage carriers easy to use? Sometimes small, nitpicky things can become big gripes when you live with them every day.
Ask Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask pointed questions, such as:
- Are there any common complaints or service issues?
- Are there any issues with the availability of parts?
- How often do buyers typically keep it?
- Are there plans to upgrade the model soon?
- Are you offering any incentives on certain models or accessories?
Decision Time: The Head vs. The Heart
There are practical elements to consider when buying a motorcycle, but it is largely an emotional purchase. Don’t forget to consider the smile factor. If a motorcycle that’s within your budget gets your blood racing and leaves you smiling from ear to ear, well you may have just met your match.
Dustin Woods
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