Beginners Guide to Motorcycle Makes and Models
If you're thinking of getting a motorcycle, you probably have an idea of the 'type' you are looking for, but not necessarily the manufacturers who make that specific type, and what's good and what's not.
Before you even go so far as to commit to a particular style of bike, it's worth thinking about what the various types of bikes are designed to be able to do.
Here is some information about 4 of the main types;
1. Custom bikes - These are the Harley Davidson style bikes, and if this is the style you are after then you are probably thinking 'Harley' and nothing else. There are, however, other makes and models of custom bikes which arguably perform better and are more reliable. Yamaha in particular have a great range of really classy looking custom bikes.
One of the main things to bear in mind with custom bikes is they are usually quite heavy, and they don't have the acceleration and handling of a more sporty type bike. They do normally have very comfortable seats and an easy riding position so they are great for cruising on long journeys...provided you get one with a reasonable sized tank!
If that's the style you're into, then do some research. Go on-line and look at as many makes and models as you can. You will find the Harley is probably the most expensive...but for some, it has to be a Harley and nothing else will do. If that's you...go for it.
2. Tourers - Some of the larger touring bikes, like the Honda Gold-wing for instance, are as large as a small car. They actually have a reverse gear so they can be moved around at low speed: it would be impossible to push one up even the gentlest of slopes.
Being so large, bikes like the Gold-wing don't offer the benefits usually associated with motorcycling, such as cutting through busy traffic. They are great for long motorway journeys, and taking the 'other half' and luggage...I would get a car...There's little difference, and in a car you stay dry!
There are of course the smaller touring bikes and there are many makes and models. Again, research will open your eyes to just how many there are out there. The German ones are particularly good, but expensive.
3. Sports tourers - These give the best of two worlds, and in my opinion are the best kind of bike to go for if you are new to motorcycling. They offer the handling of a sports bike, without the totally 'mad' acceleration, and the riding position and comfort of a tourer. They are great in busy traffic and also on the motorway.
All the renowned manufacturers have their own, and it is worth comparing them. There are hordes of articles on the net that compare bike categories and makes against one another.
4. Sports bikes - If you are new to motorcycling beware: these are so beautiful and so tempting, and they go so fast, and they handle so sweetly...only go there if you really think you can handle it.
If you want the thrill of mind-bending acceleration and responsive light-weight handling, then a sports bike is what you ultimately want. The power to weight ratio of all modern sports bikes, even though they are designed to be ridden on normal roads, is awesome. There are so many to choose from - look on the net or buy a copy of MCN or BIKE magazine.
Most motorcyclist go for a blend of style and performance. You want to look good and be able to stay out of trouble on busy roads, and acceleration and handling are the keys to that.
Once you have made your choice it is a very wise idea to get some training specific to the kind of bike you have chosen to ride.
The keyword when choosing the right bike for you is 'safety'.
Bear this in mind at all times and don't go for something you haven't actually got the skill or strength to handle.
