What to Look for When Buying a Motorcycle

Choosing the right motorcycle can be a bit intimidating and exciting at the same time. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a bike is your level of riding experience and how you intend to use your bike.

Like an automobile, a motorcycle is a large investment so you want a bike that fits your needs and one you feel comfortable navigating.

Your physical size is an important factor to consider when selecting your bike. Just because a bike looks attractive to you, it doesn't mean that it is the right fit for you.  If a bike is too tall or too heavy for you to hold up it can put you at risk for an accident.  It is best to choose a bike that is comfortable to ride.  Once you are sure that it fits your stature you can customize it to suit your personality.

It is also important to consider how you will be using your bike.  Will you be driving cross-country, taking extended trips or just riding locally? Will you ride alone or will you carry a passenger? What types of roads will you be travelling over - streets, open road, highways, off roads? Every bike is built to perform in certain conditions so having this information ahead of time will help you decide which features are important for your bike.

There are many different types of bikes on the market today:

·       Cruisers

·       Sports/Racing Bikes

·       Touring Bikes

·       Standard/Naked Bike

·       Dual Purpose Bikes

The standard/naked bike is a bike that puts the rider in a straight upright position and is ideal for city street riding.  This bike is perfect for daily commuters. 

If you’re looking for a more relaxed ride, the cruiser is the bike for you. 

A touring motorcycle is comfortable for long distances. Their large engines allows the rider to travel many miles without stopping. Touring bikes are pretty heavy and allow you to easily transport belongings without discomfort when riding.  

Now we move on to the sport bike, which is the most popular bike on the market. A sports bike is basically a racing bike. It is built for speed and flexibility and puts the rider in a forward leaning position.  In my opinion, these bikes are meant for experience riders only.

Lastly, there is the dual-purpose bike. This bike is probably the most adaptable motorcycle. Dual Purpose bikes can manage any terrain, dirt and open road. 

With so many bike options to choose from today, a smart buyer will invest the time necessary to do the research so that s/he doesn't spend money unwisely.

Visit www.gothamsi.com for a complete line of Indian and Victory Motorcycles.  While you are there, check out the SlingShot pictured above.