How to Choose a Motorcycle
Buying a motorcycle is a big decision, so it’s important to feel confident that you’re choosing the right one for your needs. Whether it’s your first bike or you see yourself as an expert with plenty of experience, you’ll still want to take some time to consider a few key factors. Windy City Motorcycle Company has created this guide to help you make the right choice. Read on to learn more!
Consider Your Purpose
Your first order of business is deciding how you plan to use your bike. After all, different types of motorcycles are geared toward different riding styles. One of the most popular options is a cruiser, which is designed to turn heads with its striking aesthetic features with a throwback vintage style. These bikes are easy to handle but still have the power needed for a good time, which is an ideal perk for new riders.
If you know you’re going to be riding your motorcycle for extended periods of time, whether that be for commuting or going on road trips, you should consider a touring bike. These models are specifically built for long-distance riding and will provide you with better fuel efficiency, superior stability, ample storage, and top-notch comfort.
Adrenaline junkies will surely appreciate the sport bike models. These motorcycles are extremely lightweight and agile, so you’ll be able to hit top speeds as you enjoy a thrilling experience. They also perform quite well at competitions if you want to put your riding skills to the test.
If you’re more intrigued by the idea of tearing up a dirt road, you should think about investing in a dirt bike. These models are designed to conquer off-road trails as you explore all that nature has to offer. Some of these motorcycles are built to handle both the off-road terrain as well as the highway, so you’ll have plenty of versatility.
What Size Do You Need?
While your intended purpose is important when browsing motorcycles for sale, you should also be thinking about the size of the bike. Once you know what model you want, you should start to consider your sizing needs. The priority here is to ensure you can comfortably reach the hand and foot controls. There’s nothing quite as stressful as being on the edge of losing control.
Fortunately, many brands and models can accommodate your bike to better fit your size. This is a topic worth discussing with your motorcycle dealership if you happen to fall in love with a model that doesn’t fit just right. Another reason why size and weight are going to play a factor in your decision is that they affect handling and maneuverability. The larger the bike, the more difficult it will be to handle and maneuver. These will be sturdier on long-distance trips on the highway when you’re fighting the winds. Still, first-time riders might prefer something more lightweight that’s easier to learn with.
## Establish a Budget
Finally, don’t forget to establish a budget before you start looking at motorcycles for sale. Many different aspects can affect the price of a bike, including engine size, brand, features, and so on. Consider the maximum amount you can spend without setting yourself back financially. You should also be sure to factor in ownership costs, like buying essential gear and getting insured.
If you’re on an especially strict budget, you can always check out some used inventory. These bikes will come at a lower sticker price, which is largely due to depreciation. You might even be able to swing a higher-end model than you would if you had bought it brand new. Another tip is to finance your motorcycle, which allows you to pay it off on a schedule that works for you.
Ready to check out motorcycles for sale? Check out the selection at Windy City Motorcycle Company. Our dealerships are based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Chicago, Illinois; and Detroit, Michigan.