Like your first love, you will remember your first motorcycle as long as you live. Although you will enjoy the freedom motorcycling brings you, nothing quite compares to the heady exhilaration of those first rides. At this point, the best way to ensure that those rides are as pleasurable as possible is to get a good, dependable motorcycle.
The first step to buy your new motorcycle is by deciding which type or model that suits you. Most people categorize bikes into three distinct categories: street, dual-purpose, and off-road. However, those who know bikes very well will understand that there are many more sub categories of motorcycles to contend with on the sales block.
The biggest mistake that beginning riders often make when purchasing their first motorcycle is setting for a low-budget street model that usually costing around $3,000 for the new one. The problem is, these bikes have little power and can often sport an uncomfortable ride. More information about the types of motorcycle are:
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Touring bikes are considered as the Cadillac of motorcycles. Although it is still considered as a street bike, these model is built for comfortable highway riding and long trips. Featuring a large powerful engine, touring bikes are very heavy and can be difficult to maneuver, especially at high speed. These bikes are great for experienced riders and those who do a lot of highway riding. In-town and city riders should avoid them. The price also becomes the main reason why average people are eager to buy, since one of these models can reach $10,000 to $20,000.
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Cruisers are more classic-looking street bike and are by far the most common style of motorcycle offered by today’s dealers.style and comfort is the key to the cruiser, which features large comfortable low to the ground seating. Another benefit to the cruiser style is the liberal use of chrome and loud exhaust note; two things that many riders enjoy from their bikes. The cost for one of these can range from $5,000 to $20,000.
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Sport bikes are another subcategory in the motorcycle industry, and they are very popular among young riders. Built for performance, sport bikes do not offer much in the way of comfort or convenience. These lightweight bikes feature the ultimate in aerodynamics. They are not good for long trips. Although the price is relatively inexpensive (ranging from $5,000 to $15,000), sport bikes often carry higher insurance premiums to a perceived risk by insurance carriers.
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Standard bikes are not as popular as they once were, but are still the best for beginners since they are well-balanced, well-powered and relatively lightweight, which makes them easier to handle. Good for both city use as well as highway riding, standard bikes are the wonderful option for regular bikers who just want reliable transportation.
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Motocross bikes are meant solely for off-road use. They feature small engines and are extremely lightweight, usually weighing a mere 150 to 300 pounds. It is usually used for recreational riding and its price is relatively inexpensive, ranging from $1,500 to $6,000.
- Dual-purpose bikes, on the other hand feature knobby tires and a high center of gravity that works well for off-roading. They have headlights, turn signals, and emission control to make them street-legal.
As you can see, there are a lot of different kinds of bikes for a lot of different kinds of riders. The most important thing to consider when choosing a bike of your own is:
- Your size and strength.
- Your experience and ability.
- Your budget.
Once you have narrowed your choices to the style that you want most, it is obvious time to hit the showroom floor to see what your favorite manufacturer has.