Before You Buy a Motorcycle:
A Beginner’s Guide

So you want to buy your first motorcycle? While an exciting prospect, purchasing your first bike is not a decision to take lightly. There are several important factors novice riders should consider before selecting and buying a motorcycle. Following proper beginner motorcycle guidelines will help ensure you choose the right starter bike and start out riding safely.

Take a Motorcycle Safety Course
Before purchasing a motorcycle, enroll in a basic rider safety course. Instructors will teach you critical skills like balance, turning, braking, and swerving. You’ll gain hands-on experience riding a bike in a controlled environment. Completing a course often makes you eligible for discounts on motorcycle insurance. Most importantly, training helps reduce the risk of getting into an accident once you start riding on public roads. Look for a class approved by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

Determine the Right Type of Motorcycle
There are many types of motorcycles to choose from. Common categories include:

• Cruisers: Ideal for relaxing, cruising rides. Includes Choppers and Bobbers.

• Sport Bikes: Emphasize top speed and acceleration. Require the rider to lean forward.

• Dual-Sport: Lightweight and rugged. Designed for both on-road and off-road riding. A good versatile option.

• Standard: Offer an upright riding position. Include naked and retro bikes.

• Dirt Bikes: Meant for off-road riding. Not street legal.

The type of motorcycle is not as important for beginners as the engine size and power. Even sport bikes and dirt bikes can work for new riders, as long as they are low powered and suited to the rider’s skill level. Avoid high-powered motorcycles until you gain experience.

Start with a Low Powered Motorcycle
A common mistake of new motorcycle owners is buying a bike with too much power. It may be tempting to get a fast, high-powered sport bike, but restraint is advisable for beginners. More modest engines provide sufficient speed and acceleration for novice riders. Less powerful bikes are lighter, more maneuverable, and more forgiving when mistakes are made. A motorcycle with an engine size under 500cc is usually a good choice to start. Move up slowly to more powerful bikes as your skills progress.

Buy Used for Your First Motorcycle

Since beginning riders are still developing skills and may drop or damage bikes, purchasing a used motorcycle for your first bike can save money. You can find quality used models for much lower prices through private sellers or motorcycle dealerships. Have an experienced rider check out any used bike prior to purchasing. Make sure critical components like the engine, brakes, and tires are in good working order. Consider taking a used bike to a mechanic for a safety inspection as well.

Focus on Safety Gear

Besides the motorcycle, investing in proper riding gear should be a top priority for new owners. Sturdy over-the-ankle boots, durable pants, an abrasion-resistant jacket, and a DOT-certified helmet are essential. Also, consider leather riding gloves, eye protection, and bright-colored/reflective clothing to improve safety. Quality gear protects in a crash and offers comfort on long rides. Refrain from trying to save money by using inadequate safety equipment.

Buying and riding a motorcycle for the first time is an exciting experience. But novice owners should take key steps like enrolling in rider training, starting with a low-powered motorcycle, and using full protective gear to stay safe. Practicing caution and patience as a beginner will help ensure an enjoyable and accident-free start to your motorcycling adventures.

The most important thing for new riders is to not get ahead of their skills. It can be tempting to buy a powerful, flashy motorcycle right away. However, restraint is wise. Choose a beginner-friendly bike that matches your current ability. Build your skills over time by taking training courses and gaining experience. Then you can gradually work up to riding bigger, faster bikes. Taking it slow initially and wearing all the right gear gives you the best chance of staying safe while enjoying your new hobby. With the proper precautions, buying your first motorcycle opens the door to a lifetime of two-wheeled excitement.