How Do I Go About Buying My First Motorcycle?
It's exciting to officially shop for your first motorcycle. But it's also important to consider what's practical when you're looking around at new or used bikes.
You need to do some research and have patience before you can realize your dream of riding on the open road. Buying a motorcycle is different from buying a car.
Here's everything you need to know about buying your first motorcycle, from safety tips to motorcycle insurance.
Start by completing your MSF course and getting insured
Before you can go about buying your first motorcycle, you need to first complete your Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course. Your MSF course is like a driver's training course. It ensures not only your own safety but also the safety of others on the road.
Once you have your MSF course under your belt, you need to consider insurance as part of your motorcycle cost. Insurance can help to protect you if you end up in an accident or your bike is stolen.
There are different types of insurance coverage including bodily injury liability, property damage liability, personal injury protection, and comprehensive insurance. Read up on the different plans to make sure you're covered and protected.
Look for bikes that fit your lifestyle
Motorcycles aren't cookie-cutter bikes that can be adjusted to fit you, which is why it's important to find one that feels right and fits your body. You should always be able to pick up your motorcycle and move it around.
It's also important to consider the different types of motorcycles and your riding style. There are standard motorcycles that are greater for longer rides at slower speeds and there are sports bikes that are better for short rides at high speeds.
If you're not sure what you want or where to get started, talk to your local motorcycle dealers in Michigan to get an idea of what to look for.
Do your research on the motorcycle you want
It's crucial to do your research before making any purchase. When you find a bike you might want to buy, look up what you can about the brand, model, reliability, fuel efficiency, and how it runs and drives.
It's important to make an effort to know everything you can about your potential bike both inside and out. It might sound like overkill, but you'll be the owner of the bike you buy and a motorcycle isn't a small purchase. You don't want to have any buyer's remorse.
That said, make sure you're not climbing too high on the displacement ladder for your first motorcycle either. Consider staying in the 500cc-and-under class when it comes to your motorcycle's power and design. You can always trade up for something bigger later.
Looking for motorcycle dealers in Michigan?
If you're considering buying your first motorcycle, you're not alone. In just 2017, up to 472,000 motorcycles were sold in the United States. That's a lot of bikes.
Nelson's Speed Shop is one of the top motorcycle dealers in Michigan where you can get motorcycles, dirt bikes, motorcycle equipment, and dirt biking equipment in one place. To learn more about our motorcycles or why we're one of the most trusted motorcycle dealers in Michigan, contact Nelson's Speed Shop today.