Motorcycle Buying Guide - Different Motorcycle Styles
Author: Matthew HickBuying a new motorcycle isn't always easy. There's a lot of information out there to steer car buyers in the right direction, but very little for the average motorcycle buyer.
The first step to buying your new motorcycle is deciding which type or model style is right for you. Most people group bikes into three distinct categories: Street, Dual-Purpose, and Off-Road. But, those who know bikes well understand that there are many more subcategories of motorcycles to contend with on the sales block.
The biggest mistake beginning riders often make when purchasing their first motorcycle is settling for a low-budget street model (usually costing around $3,000 new). The problem is, these bikes have little power and can often sport an uncomfortable ride.
Touring Bikes are considered the Cadillac of motorcycles. Although still considered a street bike, this model is built for comfortable highway riding and long trips. Featuring a large powerful engine, touring bikes are very heavy and can be difficult to maneuver, especially at high speeds. These bikes are great for experienced riders and those who do a lot of highway riding. In-town and city riders should avoid them. Price too is a consideration when buying a touring bike since the prices for one of these models ranges form $10,000 to $20,000.
Cruisers are a more classic looking street bike and are by far the most common style of bike offered by today's dealers. Style and comfort is key to the cruiser, which features large comfortable low-to-the ground seating. Another benefit to the cruiser style: the liberal use of chrome and loud exhaust note, two things many riders enjoy in their bikes. The cost for one of these can range form $5,000 to $20,000.
Sport Bikes are another sub category in the biking industry and are very popular among younger riders. Built for performance, sports bikes don't offer much in the way of comfort or convenience. These lightweight bikes feature the ultimate in aerodynamics. Not good for long trips, sports bikes are meant for just that: sport. Although relatively inexpensive (ranging from $5,000 to $20,000), sports bikes often carry higher insurance premiums do to a perceived risk by insurance carriers
Standard Bikes aren't as popular as they once were, but are still best for beginners since they are well-balanced, well powered and relatively light-weight which makes them easier to handle. Good for both city use as well as highway riding, standard bikes are a wonderful option for regular ordinary bikers who just want reliable transportation.
Motocross Bikes are meant solely for off-road use. They feature small engines and are extremely lightweight (usually weighing a mere 150-300 pounds). Used for recreational riding, motocross bikes are relatively inexpensive usually ranging in price form $1,500 to $6,000.
Dual-Purpose Bikes, on the other hand feature knobby tires and a high center of gravity that works well for off-roading, but still have headlights, turn-signals, and emissions control to make them street-legal.
As you can see, there are a lot of different kinds of bikes for a lot of different kinds of riders. The most important things to consider when choosing a bike of your own is:
-Your size and strength.
-Your experience and ability.
-Your budget.
Once you've narrowed your choices to the style you want most, it's time to hit the showroom floor to see what your favorite manufacturer have.
You've made the big decision: it's time to buy a motorcycle. You've done your research and you basically know what style, and maybe even what particular model you want. Now, it's time to head to the showroom and make a deal! Before stepping foot into your local motorcycle dealer, keep this in mind: prices are often non-negotiable... particularly on popular models.
Motorcycle dealers do not work with the same high profit markets as car dealers, and are much less capable of making a better deal than what's listed on the price tag. But, slow-selling models (those usually on sale) sometimes have a bit of negotiation room. And, of course, you're always free to try and get a few accessories (helmets, gloves, maintenance) thrown in to seal the deal.
The good news is that motorcycle dealerships are not nearly as stressful to deal with as their automobile counterparts. The salesmen at these dealerships usually aren't very pushy, so it may be up to you to ask a lot of questions.
Many dealerships don't allow test drives, but they should at least permit you to sit on the bike you're considering and start the engine.
When checking over a bike consider these important factors:
-Whether or not the seat is comfortable.
-If the handlebars are comfortable.
-If your knees rest neatly on either side of the gas tank.
Next, it's time to check the engine. Rev it up! Take notice to see if it features a nice smooth feel at high RPM's, or if it feels buzzy instead.
Also, consider the weight. Does it seem like it will be easy to control? Can you easily pick it up off of the ground?
Now take note of this important tip: don't buy any bike on your first visit! Even if you've fallen in love with it! Always check out bikes form a few different manufacture's before making this all-important decision.
Once you've made your final decision, return to the dealership of your choice and choose from their current inventory.
While price haggling usually isn't an option for bike buyers, trying to get a few free bies thrown is isn't out of the question - especially if you are a cash buyer. Of course, most dealers now offer their own financing options, so if you don't have the cash upfront, you can still purchase the bike of your dreams.
As you can see, buying a motorcycle is a bit different from buying a car - but it can also be a lot easier, quicker and much less of a hassle! Now, get out there and find yourself the bike of dreams.
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