Dave Sears Shares Must-Know Info Before Buying First Motorcycle

A motorcycle is a great way to enjoy time in the outdoors while safely practicing social distancing. People who ride motorcycles know that it provides a degree of freedom and excitement that is difficult to find anywhere else.

Dave Sears of Alamo Cycle Plex explains what you should know before purchasing your first bike, from selecting which type of cycle you want to the basics of licensing, insuring, and maintaining your new purchase.

Different Types of Motorcycles

Depending on what kind of riding you would like to do, there are many different types of motorcycles to choose from. Some bikes are perfect for off-road excitement. Others are best for leisurely drives in the country or cruising with friends. Others are great for daily commuting.

Adventure Bikes

If you are looking for a bike for off-roading, you should consider an adventure bike. These bikes can run on- and off-pavement, especially if they have a good set of tires. The features that you want to look for include long-travel suspension, luggage racks, and engine guards. If you are looking for a high-end model, you might be able to find features like handguards, heated grips, adjustable ABS, and traction control.

Touring Motorcycles

If you want to ride your bike down country roads, you will want to look for a touring model. These are large, heavy bikes that are great for bringing a passenger along. Touring bikes tend to be expensive, so it is important to know how to get what you pay for. These bikes tend to have good audio systems with intercoms, GPS, ABS brakes, heated seats, Bluetooth, and electronic suspensions. They also have plenty of room to store luggage and gear for one or two passengers.

Commuting by Bike

If you are looking for a bike to commute with, you should decide based on how long you plan to be driving. A small bike with good fuel economy probably won’t be comfortable for a long ride. If you are looking at a longer commute, you will want a bike with a bigger engine, more accessories, more storage space, and other comfort options like a touring bike. The great thing about commuting by motorcycle is that it beats fuel economy numbers of even the best commuter cars. A motorcycle can do as well as 200 miles per gallon, compared to a commuter car’s 35 to 40.

Getting Ready to Ride

The process of getting ready to become a licensed and road-ready motorcyclist is not significantly different from driving a car or truck, but there are some important things to take into consideration.

Licensing

The most important thing that you will need to do in order to start riding a motorcycle is to become a fully licensed driver. Each state has different requirements when it comes to licensing motorcyclists, but the basics are about the same.

Many states require that a beginning motorcyclist take a written permit test. Typically, motorcyclists have to hold this permit for at least 6 months while they are learning to ride. Many states require a motorcycle road test. Some states allow riders to take a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course rather than going through state road licensing requirements.

Insurance

Insurance can be one of the biggest expenses for a motorcyclist. Motorcycle insurance is expensive because, unfortunately, crash statistics are significantly higher for cyclists than for cars. Insurance companies need to charge higher premiums to make up for their investment.

Getting motorcycle insurance is relatively simple. There are many companies that specialize in motorcycle insurance, like Progressive and Dairyland.

You should keep in mind that driving a safer bike means that your premiums will be lower. Another thing to watch out for is the likelihood of theft. Some bikes are far more in-demand than others, so they are pricier to insure.

Maintaining Your Motorcycle

When you are preparing to ride your motorcycle, you will want to have a good relationship with your dealer or a trusted garage. A dealer like Alamo Cycle Plex can work with you to make sure that you are maintaining your bike properly and that you will get the maximum amount of use out of your new purchase.

Getting to know your dealer is key. When you have a working relationship with them, they will be more likely to show you new ways to take care of and maintain your bike. They have a vested interest in keeping you happy, because you may want to purchase another bike from them in the future. If you feel that your dealer or repair shop is not dealing with you honestly and well, it is time to find another shop.

Enjoying Your New Motorcycle

Armed with this information from Dave Sears, a new motorcyclist should be able to hit the ground running. From selecting the best type of bike for your needs to maintaining and insuring it, a trusted shop like Alamo Cycle Plex can help you get the most out of your new purchase.