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Buying your first motorcycle

POSTED: 06/12/2021

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LagunaMotorcycle

You’ve just passed your test and are now in the market for your first motorcycle, whichever size engine that may be. Unless you’ve had your eyes set on a particular bike brand or model, it can be a bit of a minefield. So we have put together a quick and easy guide for pointers to look out for when buying your first bike, new or used.

Bigger isn’t always better.

Even if you have passed your ‘A’ licence test, some people prefer smaller engines for several reasons. Keep in mind, many brands make smaller engine models that look like the larger ones – so if it’s an aesthetic choice, don’t be swayed. Another bonus is that smaller bikes provide better fuel efficiency and in most cases, lower insurance premiums. Okay, you may not be winning any races with bigger bikes - but you'll probably pull off from the traffic lights much faster due to your mass to power ratio!

What do you use your bike for?

 
Buying a bike suitable for where you will be riding is a good idea. Do you live in a city where traffic is usually consistent and takeaway drivers are everywhere? If so, a cruiser with wider handlebars is probably not your ideal style as you’ll find yourself sat in traffic with the cars. The same is true for a more rural rider who commutes home every day - if your route home is shared with big muddy tractors, then you may need a bike with more suitable tyres.
 
What will you be carrying on your vehicle? An electrician lugging a pannier full of tools will likely require very different things on their bike compared to a journalist with an iPhone in his or her pocket.

Both feet flat on the ground

 
Your back and shoulders will thank you for pre-planning this one. Consider your body shape and size before spending. If you are looking for a small bike, 125cc motorcycles are, as a rule, small. With less engine under the tank, the whole vehicle tends to be a comparable size. But if you are particularly tall, you may need something with a higher saddle.

 

Be sure you double-check the shape and size of a bike before investing, including saddle heights, bike lengths and bike weight.

Like a bike being too short, certain bikes are more suited to a less height-blessed individual. Nothing beats sitting on bikes – and showrooms are your best friend at this point. Try each style and see what your ideal one is as there are quite a few different shaped bike styles.

What do you fancy?

 
There are hundreds of practical reasons to get a motorcycle. And although you can read guides and listen to reviews on models, it all boils down to your own personal taste and preference.

“The more you like it, the more you will ride it. The more you ride it, the better you will become.” 

At the end of the day, you are the one riding it. If you can’t stop thinking about the bike that may be a little uncomfortable or a little too fast, so be it. Find the style you love and hunt down the motorcycle that revs your engine.
 
If you still need help choosing your first motorcycle, stop by to see us when we’re open or give us a call on 01622 681765. Here at Laguna Maidstone, we hold numerous brands, multiple styles, and various sizes, all with you in mind. Plus our friendly team are very happy to help you find the bike that’s right for you. If you want to do a bit of research first, check out our new and used bikes on our website at laguna.co.uk, and if you have any questions, just ask! 

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