Choosing a motorcycle can be a tough decision for many new riders, primarily because of the overwhelming selection of models, models, and features available. And that’s without even considering how much more confusing it becomes when you factor in rider experience level, time spent on the bike, size of your budget, MA motorcycle laws, and riding environment.
Many countries and states have motorcycle clubs where some engage in illegal activities. If you’re considering a community of bikers, it is crucial to do a background check on the club’s activities. However, you may find a motorcycle club that trains new beginners. Here are some tips on choosing a motorcycle for
Fitment
Fitment is almost as important as function – make sure you have at least one finger of clearance between your body and the gas tank/fairing/dashboard area to allow for proper wind deflection.
There are plenty of questions beginners need to ask themselves before they jump into shopping mode. Like “What type of riding will I be doing?” It’s not just about where you’ll ride most often or what style appeals to your tastes. It’s also about your riding experience and comfort level because if you’ve never been on a motorcycle before or haven’t logged any significant miles, it will make an enormous difference when choosing the bike that suits your needs.
Horsepower
When considering horsepower, riders should take into account their weight and height. The best way to determine what kind of power-to-weight ratio you’re looking for is by using an online calculator. The amount of time spent on the bike can help narrow down the choices further; for example, suppose you spend most weekends traversing back roads. In that case, you’ll want something lighter with more manageable power delivery, while touring often means packing up the bike every weekend, which could mean needing a larger gas tank for longer hauls.
Needs
Depending on how often you’ll be riding, you may want to start with something that can accommodate your needs now and won’t require a significant overhaul if things change. For example, larger bikes like cruisers and touring models might not be as suitable for shorter riders or those who still feel like they need to gain more experience before tackling the open road.
Research
As far as what motorcycle brand is right for you, it’s always best to do your research before heading out to dealerships, so you come prepared with an idea of what model will suit your requirements. Ultimately, however, finding the perfect bike comes down to personal preference and frequently taking one for a test ride – even if it means settling on something else in the meantime – because there’s no substitute for one-on-one time to see how it feels.
Size
When comparing motorcycles, consider the seat height; if you’re short, look for an option with a seat height of 30 inches or less (to measure, sit on the bike and hold your feet flat on the ground). Now that you think about it, make sure all of your gear can accommodate this measurement as well. That includes jackets and helmet sizes; not everyone fits into an “extra-large” motorcycle jacket.
Finally, another external factor to consider while choosing a motorcycle is the seating configurations (2-up vs. solo) and operational costs (fuel efficiency vs. touring models). In choosing a motorcycle, remember to weigh your options before making a purchase.
With so many options available, it’s often difficult to choose just one. But if you take the time to figure out what kind of riding you’ll be doing most often and plan for future changes along the way, finding that perfect bike will be much easier.