5 things you should do before buying your first motorcycle
Equip yourself with the essential skills and know-how before pulling the trigger on your first motorbike.
Riding a motorcycle is one of the most exciting and liberating things in the world. Not only is it an exciting way to get around, it helps you beat the traffic, and is scientifically proven to have numerous health benefits—both physical and mental, provided of course that you ride safely and wear the proper gear. It’s no wonder that getting on two wheels has exploded in popularity in recent years, both locally and all over the world.
That said, if you’re keen on getting in on the two-wheeled lifestyle, there’s more to it than just heading over to your dealership and choosing your new ride. Here at MotoDeal.com.ph, we’re committed to making your journey into the world of motorcycles as easy as possible, hence why we have so many articles geared towards beginners. Well, here’s another one, and today, let’s talk about five essential things you must do before pulling the trigger on your first motorcycle.
Do your research
Riding a motorcycle can be dangerous, especially for beginners. It's important to research the type of motorcycle that will be suitable for your skill level, size, and riding style. The right bike can help reduce the risk of accidents and injury. Indeed, motorcycles come in different shapes, sizes, and price ranges. By doing research, you can compare different models and brands to find a motorcycle that fits your budget and needs.
On top of all that, we humans come in all shapes and sizes. It goes without saying that riding a motorcycle can be a lot of fun, but it can also be uncomfortable if you don't choose the right bike. By reading through and learning about the various types of motorbikes, you can learn about the ergonomics and features of different motorcycles and choose one that is comfortable for you to ride.
Take a class
It’s a well-known fact that motorcycles are inherently more dangerous than cars. As such, taking a riding course can teach you important safety skills, such as how to properly brake, corner, and handle unexpected situations on the road. Even as you embark on your riding journey, moving up to bigger bikes can be intimidating, but taking an intermediate or advanced riding course can help boost your confidence and make you feel more comfortable on whatever bike you choose.
Get complete gear
Those of you who are avid readers would know that we’re huge proponents of motorcycle gear. It goes without saying that motorcycle accidents can be extremely dangerous and even fatal. Full riding gear can help protect you from serious injuries in case of an accident. Most gear worth buying is designed to absorb impact, protect your body from abrasion and burns, and keep your body temperature stable. On our website alone, we have tons of gear reviews of the latest and greatest helmets, jackets, boots, and gloves fit for all budgets, so be sure to check them out.
Go on a test ride
A motorcycle may look great on paper, but it may not be comfortable for you to ride. Testing the motorcycle allows you to determine whether it's the right fit for you in terms of ergonomics and riding posture. Furthermore, each motorcycle has its own unique handling characteristics. Testing a motorcycle allows you to experience how it handles in different situations such as turns, acceleration, and braking. This can help you determine if it's a good fit for your riding style and skill level. Last but not least, you may have specific performance expectations from a motorcycle such as acceleration, speed, and maneuverability. Testing a motorcycle can help you determine whether it meets your performance needs.
Learn basic maintenance
We’ve talked a lot about motorcycle maintenance in previous articles. In fact, you can pretty much do any job on your bike just by checking out all our technical maintenance how-to features. Nevertheless, regular maintenance is essential for keeping your motorcycle safe and reliable. Knowing basic maintenance will help you identify potential problems early and address them before they become serious safety issues.
Staying on top of your maintenance can also help you save money in the long run by preventing more expensive repairs down the line. Knowing how to perform basic maintenance yourself—such as checking tire pressure, cleaning and adjusting your chain, and changing your engine oil—can also save you tons of money on labor costs. Last but not least, keeping your bike in tip top shape will definitely extend the life of your beloved steed, and that’s something we all love, isn’t it?
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