Which Motorcycle is Right for You?

The perfect motorcycle is different for every rider. Experienced bikers often say there’s a right bike for any situation. Because motorcycles are more advanced and specialized than ever, being happy with your choice is about finding the motorcycle that’s right for you and the kind of riding you want to do.

Types of Bikes

New riders have higher confidence on light weight motorcycles with a low seat height that allows them to get both feet on the ground. A lighter bike is better for learning because it’s easier to balance, steer, accelerate and brake. Fortunately, weight and seat height specs are listed for new motorcycles on manufacturer websites, which are a good place to start finding the most new-rider-friendly bikes.

Before you get your heart set on a specific bike, it’s best to start by understanding the categories of motorcycles and their pros and cons.

Street Bike

Built for doing a little bit of everything, the street bike (also known as the “standard” bike) has a durable design that gives the rider a better sense of control and comfort. Plus, it won’t break the bank when you need repairs. Be warned, some models come with over 1,000 cc’s of engine, which can be more than what a new rider can handle. Examples of good street bike brands for new riders include Suzuki, BMW, Yamaha, Honda and Kawasaki. 

Dirt Bike

Good for riding on- or off-road, dirt or dual-sport bikes are lightweight and versatile. Whether you’re riding trails or riding to work, you’ll find these bikes light, simple and inexpensive. The one major drawback is the style’s high seats, which can prevent both feet from reaching the ground.

Cruiser

For relaxed riders, the cruiser is your classic Harley. Low seats help you get your feet on the ground and a low center of gravity makes the heavy bike easier to handle. In spite of the considerable heft and cost of large cruisers, mid-size bikes are more nimble, affordable and sportier, good for the beginner rider.

Sport Bike

With high speed and tight handling, lightweight sport bikes like the Kawasaki Ninja are very popular among new riders. However, the strength of the engine and brakes can be unforgiving on the novice. Plus, higher speeds mean high risk, so insurance costs are higher on these bikes.

Tourer

Perfect for long rides on the open road, the comfortable tourer is the road trip bike of your dreams. With plenty of aftermarket accessories available to add storage and style to your ride, this heavy and powerful bike is one of the more expensive models available. If this is your style but not your budget, try incorporating tourer elements like a windshield or saddle bags to a street bike.

Scooter

Practical for urban transportation, the scooter is the perfect entry-level vehicle for the bike-curious traveler. With no clutch or gears and high gas mileage and durability, the scooter is great for beginners as it is lightweight and has a low profile. Drawbacks include less stability than a motorcycle, smaller engines, and you can’t enter them in custom bike builder events!

After purchasing the bike of your dreams, it’s important to ensure that your prized possession is protected. If you ever find yourself in an accident, contact an Orlando motorcycle attorney.