When it comes to selecting a motorcycle, finding the right bike for you is crucial. With countless options available in the market, choosing the right bike can feel like a bit of a minefield. However, by considering what you want to get out of riding and conducting thorough research, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and individual riding style. In this article, we will explore the question, "How do I choose the right motorcycle for me?" and provide some insights that should help you find your ideal ride.
Assess Your Riding Needs and Experience:
Before purchasing a motorcycle, it is essential to evaluate your riding needs and experience level. Consider the primary purpose of your motorcycle—will you be commuting, touring long distances, or seeking off-road adventures? Additionally, think about your experience level as a rider. Are you a beginner, intermediate, or an experienced rider? Determining these factors will narrow down your choices and ensure you find a motorcycle suitable for your intended use and skill level.
Consider Motorcycle Types:
Motorcycles come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific purposes and riding styles. Common categories include sport bikes, cruisers, touring/adventure bikes, sports touring bikes, and off-road bikes (Enduro, MX or Trials). Read up on each type to help you understand their features, performance characteristics, and intended use. This information will help you identify the style of motorcycle that best aligns with your riding needs and preferences.
Determine Engine Size:
The engine size or displacement is an important consideration when choosing a motorcycle. Engine sizes typically range from small displacement (125cc to 300cc) for beginners and urban commuting to larger displacement (600cc to 1000cc and beyond) for more experienced riders and higher performance requirements, with various middleweight bikes inbetween. Consider factors such as power output, fuel efficiency, and your comfort level with handling different engine sizes.
It's also worth noting that a twin-cylinder engine would produce more torque, but a multi-cylinder engine generally produces more power. It’s not all about CC!
Which licence type you hold will also directly affect which engine size you are able to purchase. For example, if you are over 17 years old and hold a CBT or A1 licence, then you will be limited to 125cc bikes – however the style of bike within this range will be completely up to you!
Physical Ergonomics and Comfort:
The ergonomics and comfort of a motorcycle have a huge impact your riding experience and enjoyment. Factors such as seat height, handlebar position, footpeg placement, and overall riding posture should be considered. A comfortable riding position will ensure long hours on the road are enjoyable and reduce fatigue. Pay a visit to your local dealership and attend any motorcycle shows you can to have a sit on various bikes and work out which size/position would work for you.
Motorcycle Spec:
It's not just the ergonomics you should consider, the various specs of the different machines available may impact the enjoyment of your ride too. For example, if you plan on lots of long journeys then cruise control may be something worth having. If you plan on racing, or riding on the track then fully adjustable suspension would help you get the most out of your motorcycle.
Test Ride and Research:
Once you’ve started narrowing your choices down, it’s time to test ride some motorcycles! Reading reviews and listening to the views of other riders is great, but the best way to really work out if a bike is for you is to have a proper test ride. Pay attention to factors like acceleration, braking, manoeuvrability, and overall handling. And of course, how much it makes you smile! Combining hands-on experience with research/reviews should help you build a picture of the real-world performance and reliability of the motorcycles you are considering.
Your local dealer should have a fleet of test-ride bikes. If you’re local to us and looking to test ride a motorcycle then give the sales team a call!
Conclusion:
Choosing the right motorcycle involves careful consideration of your riding needs, experience level, desired type, engine size, ergonomics, and conducting thorough research. By following these guidelines and asking yourself the question, "How do I choose the right motorcycle for me?" you will be well on your way to finding the perfect ride that brings joy, excitement, and fulfilment to your motorcycle adventures. Remember, the right motorcycle is the one that perfectly matches your riding aspirations and makes every journey an exhilarating experience.
