How to Pick the Perfect Motorcycle for Your Needs
Updated On January 20, 2023 | by Alan Biles
Choosing a new motorcycle can be overwhelming because there are many types, brands, and sizes from which to choose. If you’ve decided to get a motorcycle but don’t know how to choose the right one, keep reading.
Types of Motorcycles
When picking a motorcycle, consider a touring motorcycle for comfort. Touring motorcycles are great for long trips and they are usually heavier than other choices. They can vary from brand to brand, and sometimes they are mixed with sport touring bikes to give them more sportiness.
Sportbikes are made to be aerodynamic and allow riders to take high lean angles on corners. Sportbikes is a two-stroke engine motorcycle that provides incredible acceleration. Some shorter riders will have difficulty touching the ground on their toes on these bikes.
Cruisers have lower seats. Riders sit in, rather than on, a cruiser, which makes them very comfortable. They come in a variety of designs, from simple to complex.
Standard motorcycles provide a combination of function and look. They ride on the streets well but do not have a particular focus or special use. Standard bikes have a range of engine sizes and motorcycle sizes, so there is something to fit everyone.
Dual-Sport motorcycles are the most versatile bike. They can cruise comfortably on highways, yet also perform well on dirt. The seat for these bikes tends to be a bit taller so that the bike can have better off-road clearance, so check to make sure it is a good fit if considering this option.
Choosing the Right Size
Motorcycles do not come in one size that fits everyone. Consider the weight and size of the rider before settling on a brand or model. The weight of a rider will affect their ability to maneuver a bike, so it is important to determine each bike’s carrying capacity. A small bike ridden by a big man may not have much power.
Most motorcycles have a weight limit of between 350 and 450 pounds. The actual carrying capacity is found by taking the bike’s weight from its gross weight rating. This gives the amount of weight for the rider and any cargo. This number can be found on the owner’s manual of any bike, and it is associated with the VIN for each bike.
Consider the number of fluids and fuel that will be added to the bike once it is ridden. Also, add in the passenger and gear that might be taken along. A rider that weighs about 350 pounds should probably choose a bike with a carrying capacity of over 450 pounds.
Read to Know: The Reasons To Finance Your Motorcycle Purchase.
Consider the Bike’s Purpose
The reason there are different designs of motorcycles is that they have different purposes. The way the engine, chassis, wheelbase, and suspension are designed on a bike to make it appropriate for a certain purpose. Regardless of a rider’s weight, they need to buy a motorcycle for the purpose that it was made.
For riders wanting to commute on a highway, narrow, fuel-efficient bikes are a good choice. If riding around for a leisurely weekend trip with a friend, a powerful bike for two people may be a better choice. For long distances, it is important to choose a motorcycle that has a large engine, a bigger fuel tank, and sturdy chassis.
Riding a motorcycle can be fun, but also dangerous. Choosing a bike that is made for your build and purpose will help ensure safety and fun while riding.
Also, Read: Tips for Avoiding Motor Insurance Scams
