ALT-2 How to Choose the Motorcycle that’s right for you
On nearly any given week, I can view the for sale adds of my local paper and find otherwise new motorcycles for sale. Descriptive words like "low miles" and "only ridden once" are synonyms for "I bought the wrong bike". Unless you're an experienced rider, the allure of pounding pipes, and high speed cornering can often override the more practical aspects of purchasing a tow wheeled travel companion.
First Time Riders: The are generally two classifications for the first time buyer; the very young, or the mid life adventurer. Both have blind spots from lack of experience (though in differing ways) and will often make critical decisions based on misinformation or not understanding the information they've been given. One of the biggest mistakes made by both groups is purchasing a bike that is too big. When it comes to motorcycles, big refers to both physical size, and the power of the engine. Because of the dynamics involved in operating a motorcycle, both are extremely important as you go through the process of learning to ride.
Starting with engine size, a good rule of thumb for the first time rider is 600cc or less if your looking to buy a cruiser, and 250cc if your thinking sport bike. Suzuki makes an excellent 800cc Boulevard 50 cruiser (in early 2000 called the Intruder Volusa) and is one of the few bikes that size I would recommend for first time riders. The engine power is respectable, but very manageable, and much of the bike is fiberglass, making the curb weight very light, and handling extremely manageable. As you gain experience, simple modification to the pipes, and jetting (carbureted) or regulator (fuel injected) increases performance as much as 30%.
Sport bikes tend to appeal to younger first time buyers. The best recommendation is don't start with a sport bike. Buy design, sport bikes are for experienced riders, with one thing in mind; racing. You have to get your feet wet, before you can swim. Because cruisers and sport bikes are such different animals, starting out with a small, more caf racer styled bike, like the Yamaha FZ6 is a great choice. Very manageable power output, with a mild sport bike configuration, will be forgiving enough to keep you upright as you learn.
More often then not, I recommend that first time buyers purchase used bikes. The investment is much less, for a bike you need, but will outgrow within a year or two, depending on how much you ride. Also, it is not uncommon for inexperienced riders to dump a bike when they are sitting at a light, or in their driveway. Regardless of your size, there is only so far you can lean a bike while sitting still, and it's not as far as many think. The ding in the tank, or bent mirror won't hurt as bad if it's a temporary bike.
Upgrading: Buying my first new, upgrade bike was better than getting married. A bike nobody had ridden before, that I could ride whenever I wanted. She would always do exactly what I told her too, and never talk back. She had a perfect body with awesome curves, and even came with a warranty to correct any flaws. To some, it may sound silly, or even offensive, but then again, they don't ride.
When it comes to getting that perfect bike that you know you will have for years to come, in many ways it is like a union. You know what kind of riding you enjoy the most. The type of performance you want. How many miles a year you ride. And of course, the look you like the best. Every category of bike has it's benefits and downfalls, and is why many experienced riders own several bikes.
Things to consider: First consideration for many cruiser enthusiasts is whether to buy American, or foreign. Economics, and miles ridden per year are key factors. American bikes tend to be more expensive not only in initial purchase, but also in maintenance costs. Also, Japanese bikes require less maintenance per miles ridden than American bikes. When considering modification of your bike, American bikes tend to have a much broader range of aftermarket accessories available than foreign bikes, and finding quality customizing shops is a lot easier. Because I ride so many miles a year, I have an 01 Suzuki for my longer rides because of it's reliability, great fuel economy, and smooth ride. For day runs, I have an 06 Victory with high end paint job, fat rear tire, and many personal touches of self expression.
For individuals seeking the thrills associated with sport bikes, you have to consider what type of riding, costs such as insurance and faring repair, as well as size. Individuals seeking mountain road cornering, and fairly long stretches of highway to get there, may want to consider bigger engines, with a slightly more upright position for comfort. Individuals looking at more trick riding, are going to desire lighter weight, and ease of fairing replacement, or repair. Accessories are prevalent for nearly all sport bikes, but cost can vary dramatically. Always remember to check not just with Consumer Reports, but with friends, after market shops, and insurance agencies.
The fact is, if you are ready to purchase an upgrade bike, you already know what your looking for, and what questions to ask. Taking some time to find the answers, from a variety of sources will equip you with everything you need to make the best purchase for your riding style. But whether you're an established riding enthusiast, or looking into taking the first steps to becoming one, three things to help keep you on the right bike for you: Size does matter. Bikes can be bigger than your wallet. And always keep the rubber side down. Keep rolling America.
