Have you ever wished you could jump on a motorcycle to zoom by all the cars sitting in stationary traffic? Not only is a motorcycle a more time-efficient way to get to your destination and a way to avoid traffic congestion, but it will also reduce your carbon emissions when you give your car a break. Whether you are looking for a standard motorcycle as a beginner or looking for a bike to handle different kinds of terrain as an experienced rider – it is important to do your research on the different styles of bikes available to suit the demands of what you are looking for.
Getting started
If you have decided a Motorcycle is right for you and you are thinking of starting as a beginner rider, then consider signing up to a Basic RiderCourse which consists of 10 hours of riding in an area where you don’t have to worry about other vehicles on the road. In most states, this course will also count as your DMV riding test, which is worth the price of admission alone.
There are three main things to consider around the costs of purchasing a Motorcycle, you need to look at the costs of buying a bike, insurance and equipment and maintenance. Owning a motorcycle compared to driving a car is generally a more cost-efficient way to travel around your city, with beginner motorcycles averaging between $5,000 and $10,000. Insurance is also an important aspect to consider but make sure you shop around to get the best deal. If you are over 25 and have a spotless driving record then you could be looking at just $500 a year. Equipment and Maintenance is the only thing that may increase your costs, as a service should be done every 5,000 – 20,000 miles with chains and drive belts needing occasional replacing.
Choosing the right motorcycle for you
1. Sport Bike
A Sports Bike is optimized for its acceleration, speed, braking, and cornering abilities. Sports bikes are mostly designed for short distances at high speed for racing events. These will range from $5,000 to $17,000. Riding for long distances over 200 km can cause exhaustion and discomfort due to the design. The Sport Bike has a narrow, hard seat forcing a rider to lean forward. This means there is often strain on a rider’s body and muscles after a long period of time. The cornering ability of these bikes is so great because of the low center of gravity and low ground clearance. If you are an adrenaline junkie looking for speed and thrill, this is a good choice of motorcycle for you.
Standard Motorcycles are a cross between Universal Japanese Motorcycles, classic British bikes, and modern technology. These are some of the most common types of bikes you will find on the road. This motorcycle has a more upright seating position which allows for a more comfortable ride. With mid-ranged engines and a variety of prices and very few accessories – this is the best option for beginner riders.
3. Scooters
Scooters have a much smaller engine than compared to other motorcycles. These range generally between 50cc to 250cc. Scooters will also typically operate on 10-inch wheels, use an electrical charging system and start from only $2,500. Scooters are more maneuverable due to their low speeds and are easy to ride for beginners. These bikes are incredibly efficient to run and are perfect for commuters looking to get from A to B and start on a journey towards a bigger motorcycle.
Touring Motorcycles are often bigger bikes with powerful engines designed for long distances. These bikes range in price from $8,000 to $30,000. The weight and power of a touring motorcycle can often be a challenge for new riders. Often featuring upright seating, tall windshields, and large fuel tanks, touring motorcycles are well suited for wide-open roads. These bikes offer a variety of options with standard trims and touring luggage accessories to suit the needs of the rider. Touring Motorcycles are perfect for adventure lovers, looking to devour long miles and speed.
A cruiser motorcycle is built for a rider’s comfort in mind. Cruisers feature low seat heights with a large rear tire and range in price from $5,000 to $25,000. A light or medium weight cruiser can be good for beginners as they are easy to handle at low speeds. If you are looking for a motorcycle to win races, this should not be your choice. While Cruiser motorcycles don’t necessarily focus on performance, these bikes are easy and comfortable to ride as well as simple to maintain.
These bikes are also known as ADV bikes and are designed for long trips on different types of terrain. Adventure bikes live up to their name and are able to take a beating from any environment you ride them in. They average in price at around $18,000 and are capable of covering long distances while still maintaining an element of comfort. Most adventure bikes will also feature large wheels, long-travel suspension, upright seating, and a good fuel range. While touring can be done by any motorcycle, adventure motorcycles offer comfort, performance, and versatility that make long-distance travel more enjoyable and safer.
If you are a beginner rider looking to get a motorcycle for the first time, we would suggest starting with a standard motorcycle or even starting off with a scooter. These are both easier to handle on the road, and will create a good starting point for riding. Once you are more experienced the other forms of bikes will allow you to have a more customized experience and tailor your driving preferences to the type of bike you are looking for. Always do your research to compare prices and the quality of different bikes to make sure you are getting the best deal for your money.
