Motorcycle as a Beginner is a Dangerous Gamble
Motorcycling is an exciting, liberating experience that brings the freedom of the open road and a sense of adventure that few other modes of transportation can match. However, it’s important to remember that motorcycles, especially new ones, are not for everyone — and certainly not for every rider. If you’re a new rider considering buying a brand-new motorcycle, it’s worth taking a step back to evaluate whether that’s really the best decision for you.
In this blog post, we will explore why buying a new motorcycle may not be the best idea for someone just starting out. From the risks of learning on an expensive bike to the benefits of starting with something more manageable, we’ll provide insights that could help you make a smarter, safer, and more financially sound decision.
Motorcycling is a Skill That Requires Time and Experience
One of the first things new riders should understand is that motorcycling requires skill and practice. It’s not like driving a car, where you simply need to steer and press the pedals. On a motorcycle, you must manage acceleration, braking, steering, balance, and body positioning, all at the same time. Even the most experienced riders know that it takes time to master the art of riding.
Starting on a brand-new motorcycle can overwhelm you as a new rider. Most new motorcycles, especially sportbikes or high-performance models, are built for experienced riders and often come with a lot of power that can be difficult to handle for someone who’s still learning. These motorcycles are designed to deliver top-notch performance, which may result in handling that feels too twitchy or quick for a novice. If you’re not yet familiar with the nuances of throttle control or braking, you may struggle to keep up with the demands of a high-performance machine.
In contrast, a used motorcycle, particularly one that is built with beginner riders in mind, provides a gentler learning curve. You can start with something that has lower power, simpler controls, and more forgiving handling, making it easier for you to focus on learning the fundamentals of riding.
New Motorcycles Can Be Expensive
Motorcycles, particularly new ones, can be quite expensive. Even the most basic models from renowned brands can cost thousands of dollars. When you buy a brand-new motorcycle, you’re not only paying for the bike itself, but also for the depreciation that occurs as soon as you ride it off the lot. Motorcycles typically lose a significant portion of their value in the first year of ownership — sometimes up to 20-30%.
As a new rider, there’s a chance that you may drop the bike, make mistakes, or experience falls while learning. These falls can cause scratches, dents, or worse, mechanical issues. If you’ve just bought a shiny new bike for thousands of dollars, this can be a costly setback. No one wants to risk damaging a brand-new motorcycle that costs a small fortune, especially when you’re still getting the hang of riding.
On the other hand, purchasing a used motorcycle gives you a chance to learn the ropes without taking such a massive financial hit. You can find well-maintained, beginner-friendly bikes that are much more affordable than new models. If you happen to drop it or make a mistake while learning, the financial repercussions will be far less severe.
Motorcycles Are High Maintenance
While motorcycles are relatively low-maintenance compared to cars, they do still require regular care and attention. As a new rider, you may not be fully aware of the necessary upkeep that a motorcycle needs, such as oil changes, tire maintenance, brake inspections, and chain care. New motorcycles come with warranties, which is great, but you might find that the learning curve for maintenance can be just as steep as the learning curve for riding.
Additionally, new motorcycles often have more advanced technology and features that can be more difficult to maintain, particularly for a new rider who isn’t familiar with how motorcycles work. If your motorcycle breaks down or needs repairs, it can be more expensive to fix because the parts are newer and often more expensive to replace.
With a used bike, especially one that’s been in use for a few years, the cost of repairs and replacement parts may be more manageable, and you may even find that your local mechanic is more familiar with the bike’s model. This can save you time and money, and can help you avoid a steep learning curve regarding bike maintenance.
Risk of Damage and Dropping the Bike
Even the most careful new riders can drop their motorcycle at some point, especially in the beginning stages of their riding journey. Whether it’s due to losing balance while stopped, misjudging a corner, or stalling the engine, dropping a motorcycle is a common mishap for beginners. In fact, many new riders experience a drop or two as they learn the ropes.
Dropping a motorcycle can result in scratches, dents, and damage to important components such as the handlebars, levers, mirrors, or exhaust. If you’ve purchased a new motorcycle, this can be a blow to your wallet, especially if you’ve invested in a high-end model. The more expensive the bike, the more likely it is that dropping it will result in costly repairs, and you’ll have to contend with the emotional impact of damaging a brand-new bike that you just bought.
A used motorcycle, on the other hand, is already “broken in,” and you’re less likely to feel as distressed about cosmetic damage. Many used bikes, especially older models, already have the battle scars of previous owners, so a few minor drops won’t leave you feeling as devastated.
Lack of Familiarity with Motorcycle Types
There are many different types of motorcycles out there, each suited for different riding styles and environments. As a new rider, you may not fully understand what kind of motorcycle is best for you. You might fall in love with the idea of owning a sleek and powerful sportbike, only to find that it’s difficult to ride in traffic or uncomfortable on longer trips. On the other hand, a cruiser or standard bike might be a better fit for your needs, but you may not realize this until after you’ve already purchased a motorcycle.
By starting with a used motorcycle, you give yourself the opportunity to experiment with different types of bikes and see what suits your needs and preferences. Used motorcycles can be found in a wide range of styles, and you’ll likely be able to find one that fits your learning style without committing to an expensive new bike that might not be ideal for your riding goals.
Insurance Costs Can Be High for New Riders
Insurance is an often-overlooked cost when buying a motorcycle, and for new riders, it can be particularly high. Insurance companies tend to charge higher premiums for new riders because they are seen as higher risk. On top of this, if you’re purchasing a brand-new motorcycle, the insurance premiums will be higher due to the increased value of the bike. For a new rider, this can make the overall cost of ownership quite steep.
Used motorcycles, on the other hand, are generally cheaper to insure. If you’re just starting out, you can save a lot of money on your insurance premiums by buying a used bike rather than a new one. This is especially important if you’re still gaining experience and may not have a perfect riding record to lower your premiums.
Depreciation Is a Major Concern for New Bikes
As mentioned earlier, motorcycles begin to depreciate the moment you drive them off the lot, with a significant drop in value in the first year. For a new rider, this is a major downside because you’re paying top dollar for a bike that quickly loses value. If you decide that motorcycling is not for you, or if you want to upgrade to a different bike after a few years, the resale value of your new motorcycle may be much lower than what you originally paid.
With a used bike, the depreciation has already occurred, meaning you can ride without worrying about losing value with every mile. If you choose to sell the bike later on, you will likely retain more of its original value than you would with a new motorcycle.
You Need to Learn to Handle a Motorcycle, Not Just Own One
Buying a new motorcycle is exciting, but it’s important to recognize that owning the bike doesn’t automatically make you a good rider. To truly enjoy the experience of motorcycling and stay safe on the road, you need to develop your riding skills over time. The more you learn about handling a motorcycle, the more confident you’ll become, and the better your decisions will be on the road.
Starting with a motorcycle that is not too expensive or powerful allows you to build that confidence gradually, without worrying about the steep learning curve that comes with mastering a high-performance bike.
Start Slow and Build Your Skills
While buying a new motorcycle might seem like the right choice when you’re starting your motorcycling journey, it’s important to recognize the challenges and risks involved. The best approach for a new rider is to start with something used, affordable, and beginner-friendly. This allows you to focus on learning the basics of riding, improving your skills, and building your confidence.
Motorcycling is a rewarding hobby, but it’s essential to approach it with patience and caution. By starting slow and choosing the right bike for your skill level, you can avoid some of the major pitfalls that come with buying a new motorcycle and set yourself up for years of safe, enjoyable riding.
So, take your time, choose wisely, and enjoy the journey as you build your skills and discover what kind of rider you truly are.
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