What to Consider When Buying Your First Bike

If you already have a motorcycle license and are looking to buy your first bike, here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping.

Know your riding level…
Start out with a bike that you will be able to handle, particularly one with an engine smaller than 600cc.

Consider your riding circumstances…
Think about the type of travel you’ll be doing and the weather in which you’ll be doing it. Will you be traveling long distances or mostly on highways? Is your bike for everyday commute or just for fun?

Choose a bike for YOU
Bikes come in tons of different shapes and sizes. Try out a lot of different ones to find something that is comfortable and fits you. It’s hard to really know how it’s going to feel without test driving one!

New or Used?
Decide if you want something new or something used. There are pros and cons associated with both. Used bikes are good because you typically don’t have to worry with scratching or damaging, though it may need more maintenance. New bikes will have a warranty, and be more reliable, but do you want to start out riding on something brand new??

Consider the other financial factors…
Don’t forget that as with a car, there will be insurance and maintenance costs. In addition, you will need an entire wardrobe of safety gear – helmet, jacket, gloves, boots, pants, etc. All of these little costs do add up!

Above all, think your purchase through. While you want to be sensible, you should also purchase a bike that you will have fun on. Make sure that any choice you make is a practical and safe choice!

-Julie