Selecting a new bike is not an easy task. Selecting your first bike will lead, either to a lifetime of joy or a bad experience, which may finish your two-wheeler career before it even starts. So, don’t take this lightly. You won’t get an opportunity of buying another one for at least a few years. So, it would be best to explore the options and make a decision after examining the specifications.
But, even that’s not enough because these days all the big brands and, even some of the smaller brands, provide great features and modern technology in the motorcycles. But it doesn’t mean all of these are right for you. At least, now, there are many choices with the Learner-Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS). It gives you access to a wide range of motorcycles and scooters that are appropriate to your riding skills.
So, if you really are into big brands like Ducati, BMW, Harley, or Kawasaki, then you should be thankful that they all have the LAMS options.
Anyways, let’s discuss this in more detail. We have a few tips for you that will help you to choose your first motorcycle.
Brands
Branded motorcycle or scooters may come at high prices but honestly, I would suggest you make a budget for it. Instead of buying cheap Asian bikes, you should buy branded bikes that have high-tech features, warranty support, and a reputation for reliability.
Plus, after 5-6 years, you will realize that cheap Asian motorcycles are discarded, beyond repairs, and out of the market. And you won’t be able to get aftermarket components. However, branded motorcycles will have better resale value and can give you a few bucks in return after the same number of years.
Price
If you are a veteran and it is your passion to ride motorcycles, then you must consider the cost as well. If you are an average rider just looking to keep your bike for a year or two before getting another, then you should go for the cheaper bike. Unlike veterans and professional riders, the chances of basic errors in your situation are more, which could leave your motorcycle damaged.
Plus, it is better to damage a cheaper bike than an expensive one. Moreover, you should save some money to purchase a motorcycle helmet and riding gear as well.
You can explore the cheaper brands in the wide range of LAMS motorcycles and scooters.
Height & Weight
This is another important thing to consider before making a final decision. Height and weight are important to consider since you are the one who will be riding it. So, it would be better to know if you are comfortable with a tall sports bike or a short cruiser. If you are a short motorcyclist then a cruiser will be suitable for you. Since it has a short height and a lower center of gravity that will actually feel lighter and maintain perfect balance, more so than a sports adventure bike with a higher center of gravity.
See Also: Tips for Short Motorcyclists
Type or Purpose
We saved the best for the last.
There are motorcycles for every purpose. So, you better be sure you are clear in your mind what you want to do with your bike.
Are you going to use it for touring or adventure?
Are you going to use it for trail riding or café racing?
Or maybe you just want to ride on long trips. It is all up to you.
I hope these tips will help you figure this out. If you have any questions, please don’t forget to mention them in the comment section below.
Thanks for pointing out that height and weight should be considered when choosing a bike. My husband has been wanting to buy a bike to use for his commute. He’s a bit overweight (which is part of the reason he wants a bike) so I’ll be sure to advise him to find something that’s comfortable. Maybe he can even test drive a few to see what works best for him!
It’s good to know that you suggest going with a cheaper bike if you are a beginning rider. I’d love to get a motorcycle, but I’ve never owned one before. I’ll definitely look at getting something on the lower-end of the price range to ensure I have a bike that I can learn on but won’t mind getting a little banged up.
For me, the height and weight of a motorcycle would be really important to think about if I am choosing one to buy. I’m 5’2″ and fairly slim, so a big, heavy bike would be very difficult for me to ride. My dad told me that if I can’t pick a bike up if it falls over, then it is too heavy or too big for me. That being said, your advice to choose a short cruiser is pretty smart. I’ll have to check them out in person to get an idea of what would really work best for me.
My husband really wants to buy a motorcycle, but I’m unsure of how to help him. I never thought about figuring out what weight and height would be better for him. We will have to try and find a way to find that out before we purchase! Thanks for the tips!
I’ve never owned a motorcycle before, but I think it would be a lot of fun. I liked how you pointed out that you need to pick out a bike size based off your own height to make it easier to ride. I’m on the shorter side, so I’ll be sure to look for something with a lower center of gravity.
This fall, my husband and I are hoping to buy a new motorcycle. We want to make sure we choose the right kind of bike for our lifestyle and planned usage. Like you said, one benefit of getting a branded bike, while it may be more expensive, is that they have high-tech features, warranty support, and a reliable reputation.