Tips on Buying your First Motorcycle

If you’re interested in purchasing an alternative mode of transportation, a motorcycle can be a great option. Motorcycles are fuel-efficient, have low insurance costs, and most drivers find them more exciting than driving a car. Before you make the purchase, here are a few tips to consider when buying your first motorcycle.

How to Buy a Motorcycle

Assess Your Needs

One of the first things you should do when considering a motorcycle purchase is assess your needs. Will you be driving long distances? Will there be lots of traffic? How often will you be taking the highway? These questions can help narrow down your search for a bike. For example, if you know you will be commuting long distances, then its best to look at newer bikes that have less wear and tear.

Skill Level

When you purchase your first motorcycle its important to invest in a vehicle that isn’t beyond your skill level. If you’re still new to riding, stick with an engine lower than 600cc. A slower bike will give you time to advance your skills. When you have gained more experience, you may be interested in upgrading to a faster bike.

Research

Prospective bike owners should do plenty of research before buying their first bike. After you decide which make and model you want, you can really start to ask questions. The Internet is a great resource for gathering information, and can even help you answer questions you didn’t know you had. When you go look at bikes, have a list of questions to ask. Below are a few examples:

• Is there outstanding finance?
• Is the mileage accurate?
• Has it been in an accident?
• Is the tax going to be included?
• Does it have spare keys?
• Do you have the maintenance records?

Condition

One of the more challenging aspects of buying a motorcycle is appraising the condition of the bike. Since this is your first motorcycle, you probably don’t want to buy one that requires a lot of repair or maintenance. When you’re looking at various bikes, ask if you can test-drive them. This will give you a feel for how it runs. If you’re planning on buying a used bike, you should also look at the bodywork. If there are multiples dents or scratches this could be an indicator of other mechanical problems in the bike. New bikes offer reliability and warranty but at a higher cost.

911 Biker Law wants to make sure you’re safe on the road. If something happens and need a representative who rides, contact us. We concentrate our practice in motorcycle law and can make sure you’re prepared at all times for an unexpected accident.