Buying your first motorcycle is exciting but can also be a little intimidating. Unlike buying a car, a motorcycle will expose you to more risk on the road. Since you’re not protected on a bike, you need to make smart decisions regarding the type of motorcycle you ride, the safety gear you wear, and how you train to ride.
Before buying your first bike, here’s what you need to know.
1. Safety needs to be your top priority
Riding a motorcycle will make you feel free but it comes with massive vulnerability compared to driving a car. You don’t have the same physical protections like seatbelts, airbags, or a metal frame, and that means even small accidents can throw you off your bike and cause severe injuries.
Even though motorcycles represent a small share of vehicles on the road, they account for around 15% of all traffic accident fatalities. While you can’t avoid every accident, you can reduce your risk of both avoidable accidents and injury with the right gear and training.
Protective gear is non-negotiable
Many new riders underestimate the importance of protective gear, but you need a proper helmet, jacket, gloves, boots, and riding pants. One skid on the road can rip through your protective pants, and without those pants it will rip off your skin.
You can expect to pay between $500 and $1,500 or more for quality gear. Do your research first and look for post-accident photos of gear, especially pants. Some popular brands don’t hold up as claimed.
Helmets have been proven to reduce the risk of head injury and death during a crash, and that’s why you need to wear a DOT-approved helmet. However, protective gear works best when combined with smart riding habits like obeying traffic laws, driving defensively, and being aware of your surroundings.
2. The type of bike you buy matters
If you’re a beginner, you should be able to control your bike and stay within your skill level. The bike you choose will influence how easily you learn to ride. Instead of buying your bike based on appearance or even performance, start with one that’s more practical. Sport bikes look cool but will be overwhelming for learning the fundamentals and will make you more dangerous on the road.
Start with a smaller engine between 300cc and 500cc. You can still ride your bike on the highway but it won’t be overwhelming. And make sure you can put both feet on the ground comfortably when you’re stopped. Bigger bikes respond faster and more sharply to acceleration and throttle, and when you’re still learning balance and clutch control, that’s going to make things hard.
There are four general categories of motorcycles, so choose the one that matches your riding style.
· Cruisers. A cruiser has a relaxed seat and delivers predictable, steady power.
· Standard bikes. These are for everyday riding, like commuting to work or driving to the grocery store.
· Sport bikes. These prioritize speed and offer aggressive handling.
· Dual-sport bikes. You can take these bikes offroad.
Choosing a bike that matches how you plan to ride will make learning easier and will make you safer on the road. However, you should prioritize learning on a bike that helps you build your confidence and control.
3. Formal training is a must even if not legally required
Many beginners mistakenly believe that learning to ride a motorcycle is similar to learning how to drive a car. However, the skills are entirely different, and you need to master a handful of skills at once. Formal training can dramatically shorten your learning curve and make you a safer driver.
It’s recommended that all new riders complete a motorcycle riding course to learn in a controlled environment. These courses teach basic riding, emergency braking techniques, how to steer, how to spot and avoid hazards, and how to maneuver your bike at low speeds. You’ll be able to get immediate feedback to improve on the spot. Plus, some insurance companies offer discounts for riders who have completed one of these courses.
4. Be prepared for ongoing maintenance
Keep an active budget for maintenance. Motorcycles need maintenance more frequently than cars. For instance, you’ll need to keep your chain lubricated, replace your tires and change your oil more frequently, and get regular brake inspections. Skipping these tasks will make you unsafe on the road.
Buying your first motorcycle is a big decision
In addition to spending your hard-earned money on a motorcycle, choosing to ride is a big decision. By prioritizing safety and investing in training, you can develop safe riding habits that make riding an enjoyable experience.
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