Ready to join the ranks of the two-wheeled road warriors? Congratulations! You’re about to embark on a journey that will make you feel like a badass, a rebel, and a wind-in-your-hair, freedom-loving adventurer all at once.
Buying your first motorcycle is like adding rocket fuel to your daily commute, transforming it from a chore to a thrilling adventure. So, rev up your engines, buckle up your helmets, and let’s take a wild ride through the process of buying your first motorcycle!
Determine your needs and preferences
It is important to know your preference and needs when purchasing your first motorcycle. Here are some questions you can ask yourself to narrow down your options. This will help determine the type of motorcycle you should consider, such as a sports bike, cruiser, touring bike, adventure bike, or dual-sport.
- What type of riding will I be doing?
- Will I use it for commuting, touring, off-road adventures or just for fun during weekends?
- What is my riding experience level? Are you a complete beginner, or do you have some experience riding motorcycles?
- What features are important to me?
- What are my physical abilities and limitations?
- What is my budget?
If you’re a beginner, you may want to consider a smaller, more manageable bike that is easy to handle and forgiving of mistakes. If you have some experience, you may be ready for a more powerful or advanced bike.
Set your budget
Motorcycles come in a wide range of prices, so it’s important to determine how much you can afford to spend before you start shopping. Keep in mind that you’ll also need to budget for gear, insurance, and maintenance costs
Research
Read motorcycle reviews and guides. There are plenty of websites and publications that offer reviews and guides for buying your first motorcycles. These can be a great starting point to learn about different models, their pros and cons, and what features to look for. Some popular websites for motorcycle reviews include Cycle World, Motorcyclist, and RevZilla.
You can also check motorcycle forums and social media groups. Facebook groups can be a valuable source of information from fellow riders. You can ask for advice, read reviews from other riders, and get a sense of what models are popular in the motorcycle community.
If you have free time, make an effort to attend motorcycle roadshows and events so that you can see different models up close. An advantage would be that you can ask questions and talk to the dealers. You can see the latest models and get a vibe on what is popular at the moment.
Take a motorcycle safety course
Of course, safety is our priority when it comes to riding motorcycles. Know the basics of riding a motorcycle and the basic knowledge needed to stay safe.
Visit dealerships and test ride motorcycles
Visit dealerships to see the motorcycles you’re interested in and to take test rides. Make sure you feel comfortable and in control of the motorcycle, and that it’s a good fit for your height and body type. Don’t rush the decision, and take as many test rides as you need to feel confident in your choice.
Consider used motorcycles
Used motorcycles can be a great option for beginners, as they are often less expensive than new motorcycles. Be sure to inspect the motorcycle thoroughly before purchasing, or bring a mechanic to inspect it for you.
Negotiate
Once you’ve found the motorcycle you want, negotiate the price with the dealership or private seller. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the price is not right.
Purchase Gear and Insurance
Here are some reasons why you should do this:
1. Safety
Motorcycle gear, such as helmets, jackets, gloves, and boots, are designed to protect you in the event of an accident. Investing in high-quality gear can greatly reduce your risk of serious injury or even death in a crash. Make sure to look for gear that is certified by safety organizations.
2. Legal Requirements
Many states require riders to wear helmets and have liability insurance. Failing to do so can result in hefty fines and legal consequences. It’s important to check the laws in your state and make sure you have the necessary gear and insurance to ride legally.
In Arkansas, motorcycle insurance is required. According to state law, all motorcycles operating on public roads must have liability insurance coverage. The minimum coverage required by law in Arkansas is $25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person, $50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more persons, and $25,000 for property damage.
3. Financial Protection
Motorcycle insurance can provide financial protection in the event of an accident, theft, or other types of damage to your bike. Without insurance, you would be responsible for paying for any damages or injuries out of pocket, which can be extremely costly.
4. Peace of mind
Investing in gear and insurance can give you peace of mind when riding your motorcycle. You can ride with confidence knowing that you are protected in case of an accident or other unforeseen circumstances.
Conclusion
Buying your first motorcycle is an exciting and exhilarating experience. But before you hit the road, it’s essential to take time to research and identify your needs to ensure you choose the right bike for your lifestyle and budget.
By following the steps in this guide, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and find a motorcycle that matches your preferences, riding goals, and financial plan. Always remember to prioritize safety, understand legal requirements, and ride responsibly to protect yourself and others on the road.
Need help with motorcycle insurance? G&G Independent Insurance is here to make the process easy. Request a free, no-obligation quote online today and get the protection you need before your first ride!
