Buying a motorbike is one exhilarating decision. So exciting that you may find yourself picking something out of “love at first sight” without thinking the process through. Getting a motorbike is more or less like making a commitment. Yes, motorbikes can be replaced, but isn’t it better to get one bike that will be part of your life story? A sentimental motorcycle that you can always look back at with pride? This is especially important if it’s your first bike. This means you need to consider all the necessary factors before settling on any particular bike. You need to think beyond that first ride and see whether you can actually create a future with the said bike. So, how exactly do you that? Well, here are some of the top qualities that you must consider when you’re purchasing a motorcycle:
1. Type Of Motorcycle
Before you even go into the finer details of any specific bike, ask yourself this; what kind of riding am I looking for? Do you want something aggressive for a dirty offroad ride or a smooth glide on the country roads? These questions will make it easier for you to identify the specific type of motorbike you should go for. As you can see at timeless2wheels.com, there are many types of motorbikes on the market today. These include standard bikes, sports bikes, touring motorcycles, sport touring motorcycles, adventure bikes, etc. And as you can guess, each bike offers different features and levels of comfort.
2. The Overall Cost Of Owning The Bike
The next thing on the list is the cost of owning the bike. Note that we are not just talking about the initial cost of purchasing the motorcycle. You could have saved enough cash to finally make your dream bike a reality but do you really have the financial muscles to own and operate the bike on a daily basis? So, what extra costs should you think about? The first one is insurance. Expect factors such as the bike model, your location, driving record, and age to influence the price of a motorcycle insurance cover. Luckily, there are many providers, so you can shop around for the best deal. The other costs to consider are fueling, gear such as helmets, and maintenance. The cost of owning a bike varies depending on the specific type of motorcycle you have, among other factors.
3. Ergonomics
A motorbike is a long-term investment, so the last thing you want is to end up with an uncomfortable and painful seat, strained knees, or awkward handlebars. Make sure you consider the comfort of the bike before spending your money. Most bike dealers will let you have a test drive, but the truth is you cannot judge how comfortable a motorcycle is from a single ride down the block. But you can try to be hypersensitive and identify any spots that could be problematic in the long run. Think about how it would feel with your weight on that saddle during a long ride. Are the handlebars okay, or are you straining a bit? Be honest with yourself and don’t assume anything. In fact, if you feel any minor issue during the test ride, chances are the problem will worsen when you buy the bike and go for a long tour.
4. Safety
According to NHTSA, motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than car passengers. In 2018, 4985 motorcyclists died in accidents, as reported by the Insurance Information Institute (III). Safety is very crucial. While most measures require a driver’s input, the bike itself can also improve your safety in various ways. For instance, a motorcycle that’s easy and comfortable to control is generally safer for you. The ideal bike should also be within your skill and experience level.
5. Handlebars
The design of the handlebars will affect your ride in so many ways. Most people fancy wide handlebars imagining how they’ll look like their favorite Hollywood stars. Indeed these handlebars look cool, but that’s just about it. During long rides, these bars will leave you with back pains and other issues. Wide handlebars will also limit your ability to squeeze through the rush hour traffic.
6. Fuel Tank Size
The size of the fuel tank can affect your control over the bike. Bigger tanks are ideal when you have a distant destination, but they can stretch your legs and cause unbearable discomfort. This is particularly a problem among female motorcyclists.
7. Engine Vibrations And Temperatures
Engine vibrations and temperatures can make or break your experience. Many motorcyclists complain of overheating engines which make long rides insufferable. The best way to know if the bike has tolerable engine temperatures and vibrations is through online reviews. If you can’t find a review on the specific model you want to buy, ask your questions directly on platforms like Reddit.
That’s how you buy a decent motorbike that will serve you for years to come. Don’t overlook anything that may seem minor at first sight. You have to be meticulous to make a worthwhile investment.
Photo by Francisco Requena on Unsplash
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