You’ve decided you want a motorcycle, but where do you start? There are so many styles and sizes that making a decision can be overwhelming. Follow along as we discuss a few tips for choosing your first motorcycle. Before you know it, you’ll feel the freedom that only a motorcycle can bring.
Know Your Budget
Maybe you were hoping our first tip would be to spend what you’d like. Unfortunately, that’s not realistic. You know your budget better than anyone. You want to make a good investment, but you also don’t want to go broke with a monthly motorcycle payment. Work on a budget and don’t stray from it.
Three Options for Finding a Bike
You have three options when shopping for your first motorcycle: restore a bike, buy used, or buy new. Let’s look at each option.
Restoring a Motorcycle
Before jumping into motorcycle restoration, make sure you’re prepared for the commitment it requires. If the thought of enjoying the journey and taking your time sounds great to you, you may like the restoration process. It begins with the search for the right motorcycle. Salvage yards are a great place to start for restoration projects.
Buying a Used Motorcycle
Buying a used motorcycle opens a lot of options. You can join online forums for individuals who are selling and buying bikes. Most motorcycle dealerships keep a decent inventory of used bikes. Also, keep an eye on local newspaper ads.
Buying a New Motorcycle
Buying a new motorcycle is your most expensive option. Still, if you can afford it, you’ll get exactly what you want with little worry about a breakdown when out on the road.
The Fit and Weight
If you’ve ever watched a parade of motorcycles rumble by, you know that they come in all shapes and sizes—not just the bikes, but the people as well. Before deciding which purchasing method is best, go to your local motorcycle shop and let them determine the right size and fit for you. This step is essential for both comfort and safety.
What’s Your Style?
You want your motorcycle to reflect who you are. Each type of bike has its own reputation and style. Go to different manufacturers and spend some time imagining yourself on the different styles of bikes to start narrowing down the process.
Do You Want Any Customization?
You know those bikes with more chrome than usual or pipes that cause an entire house to shake? Those are often customized bikes. Paint jobs, pipes, chrome, seats, and music systems are common customization options. Decide how you want your motorcycle to stand out in a crowd.
Now that you know you want a bike, use our tips for choosing your first motorcycle to make the process a bit simpler. The right choice brings years of happy riding.
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