Motorcycle Buying Guide - how to choose the right motorcycle
So you want to ride motorcycles? The time for choosing the bike for you is fast approaching and you should be confused. If you're not and you're absolutely certain on the motorcycle for you then you have either spent a lot of time on research or you're just thinking of the bike you saw race past you on the way to the motorcycle dealer. Let's be honest here, there are hundreds, if not thousands, of motorcycle makes, models, years and types. The first decision you should make is about how you're going to use the motorcycle. For example, if I wanted to buy a motorcycle just for commuting, I would get something lightweight, easy to part with good fuel economy. So for this choice, a scooter, moped and nothing overr 125cc would be perfect. NOT the latest sportsbike with an acceleration of 0-60 in 2.5 seconds, as there would be little point. For this reason you can see below a motorcycle guide - we lay out the types of motorcycle and their uses to give you a better idea about how the functions and characteristics of each type of motorcycle can meet your needs.
Type of motorcycle
Motorcycle qualities / characteristics
What you would use it for
Sportsbike
- Designed for power, acceleration and thrills
- Comfort is not important, so long trips are not recommended
- Tarmac only
- Race looks (can be expensive to maintain with paint jobs)
- Very manoeuvrable, even at speed
This motorcycle is designed to look good, and perform even better. If speed and acceleration (and speeding tickets!!!) is what you want, go for this one. Nowadays the major players (Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Ducati, Kawasaki for example) create so much competition that the difference between the speed of each is measured in milliseconds. Can be EXTREMELY expensive to insure.
Motocross
- Light motorcycle
- Durable
- Off road tyres, designed for rough countryside but can also cope with city roads
- Fuel efficient
This motorcycle can be used for commuting, but better off road. Not the fastest road bike, but can certainly cover ground off the tarmac. Use for motocross racing or simply having fun!
Tourer
- Comfortable, especially for long trips, and can easily take passengers along the way
- Physically big
- Can carry luggage, some come with heating, music speakers with radio, ABS and other luxuries!
As the name suggests, this motorcycle is used for touring. Long trips and comfort are this bike's speciality. These motorcycles can also be customised with extra luggage space, heating etc. Normally large engines (not suitable for learners) to cope with the extra weight.
Cruiser
- Stylish
- Can be customed to move away from the 'norm'
- Can have loud 'pipes'
- Can also be used as tourers, although are generally smaller and lighter than tourers.
If you want individuality over speed (but not necessarily thrills) then this is the motorcycle for you. Normally larger cc bikes, but there are some cruiser motorcycles that are learner legal (obviously with smaller engines)
Scooter / Moped
- Economical
- Commuter
- Small engines, although 600cc mopeds do exist most are 50 - 125 cc
- Lightweight motorcycles
- Easy to ride
- Perfect commuter and small distance motorcycle
If you are looking for a cheap and easy to maintain motorcycle, then a scooter or moped is the perfect choice. Although the tanks are not normally large, the fuel consumption is good.
Standard
- Economical
- Commuter
- Basic motorcycle
A standard street motorcycle will take you places without looking too flashy or too fast. Good for commuting.
