Buying your first motorcycle can be one of the most exciting and memorable events of your life. Few things compare to the thrill of taking the keys and riding off the lot for the first time. However, that doesn’t mean the process is without stress. There are many factors you need to consider beforehand.

Extensive research may seem tiresome, but it can ultimately save you from making a potentially expensive mistake. If you jump straight into purchasing without doing proper research, you could end up with a serious case of buyer’s remorse. It’s worth it, in the long run, to invest a little time and energy into research before diving into the world of motorcycle ownership.

So before you make the leap and actually purchase your own motorcycle, there are a few key things that should be taken into consideration.

Price

Perhaps the biggest piece of the equation when all is said and done: how much are you willing and able to pay. There’s really no way to seriously begin the buying process without first sitting down and determining your budget.

Make sure you are realistic with yourself in regards to price points. There’s no point in buying a motorcycle if you’re constantly worried about paying it off, or about how much it broke the bank. There are usually a few different options when it comes to financing your future motorcycle. It’s imperative to sit down and think about which option is right for your situation.

Power

With your first motorcycle, there is inevitably going to be a bit of a learning curve. Even if you have experience riding dirt bikes or something similar, you’re going to be exposed to a whole different experience when it comes to motorcycles.

This is why you must consider the size and power of the motorcycle that you buy. Leave your ego at home when you go to look at bikes. The most important thing to consider is the safety of you and everyone else you will encounter on the road. Ask the seller about motor size, the weight of the bike, and any other questions that allow you to get an idea of how easy or challenging it will be to safely ride.

Your body size and experience level are also going to factor into your decisions. The last thing you want is to be uncomfortable on your bike because it’s too big or too small for you. Do your research ahead of time to get a general idea of what would be the best model for your size. Be sure to sit on all of the different motorcycles that you’re considering to get a feel for how good of a fit it is.

Certain bikes are more suited for taller riders, while some companies make smaller versions of their classic bikes to accommodate shorter riders. It’s all about fit, comfort, and safety. Ultimately, the best way to determine if the motorcycle is going to be a good fit is to take it for a test ride and see if you are able to safely control the bike.

Experience is also going to factor into your decision. If you’re a complete novice, it’s probably a good rule of thumb to start small and work your way up. There’s no use in purchasing a bike that you cannot safely control. You can always upgrade when you get a little more experience under your belt.

New or Used?

A simple enough question, will you be buying new or used? Each option has its own distinct advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately it’s up to you to decide which one is going to work best for your unique situation.

For example, if you’re completely new to the world of motorcycles, you may not want to drop a ton of cash on something you don’t have much experience with. Motorcycles are awesome, but let’s be honest, they’re not for everyone. Sometimes it’s best to start with something relatively inexpensive to get a feel for riding. If this is the case, it may be prudent to save your money and buy a used bike to start off.

If you’re absolutely, one hundred percent positive about your purchase, and know that you’re going to be committed to this endeavor, it may behoove you to buy new. This is a great way to ensure that you’ll have a bike that will run smoothly for years to come. Plus, buying new from a dealership can come with a variety of benefits, such as free service and the warranty. These benefits may provide new riders some peace of mind while they adjust to the reality of motorcycle ownership.

Purpose

How are you planning to use your motorcycle? Are you a weekend warrior looking to blow off steam after a long work week? Are you going to be using this motorcycle as your primary form of transportation? What kind of climate do you live in? All of these factors are going to play into your decision.

There are quite a few different types of motorcycles to choose from, each one designed for a different purpose. If you’re looking for a bike to take on long road trips, a touring model is probably going to be your best bet. If you want a smaller, more agile type of bike, you may want to check out a cruiser. There are also dual sport bikes which can be used on multiple surfaces and different climates.

All Things Considered

Diving into the world of motorcycles can be both exciting and stressful. There are many factors to take into consideration before purchasing your first bike. Our hope is that this article outlines a few of the most important things every first-time buyer should consider before ultimately pulling the trigger.

Once you take the time to do your research and make a well-informed decision, you’ll be rewarded with a great bike and hopefully, a lifelong passion.

Motorcyclists, what advice would you give to first-time purchasers? Is there anything you would add to our list? Let us know in the comments!