There’s nothing more exciting than buying your first motorcycle! With your helmet on and the wind at your back, motorcycles look pretty cool, but they also drive differently from a regular car. This difference is quite noticeable if you aren’t familiar with this riding style. That’s why safety is paramount when purchasing a motorcycle.
Before you buy a motorcycle and the fancy outfit to go with it, there are a few factors to consider. Since you’re more vulnerable to the elements and other drivers on the road, you’ll want to make safety your top priority. This includes purchasing motorcycle insurance coverage and everything else you need to be confident on the road. Here’s everything you need to know about buying a motorcycle.
Before you buy a motorcycle
Before you make this big purchase, you will need a few things. Motorcycle safety is paramount, and you can achieve this by taking a few steps before hopping on your new bike. Here’s what you should do before you check out motorcycle dealerships:
Have a bike in mind
There are many types of motorcycles on the market, and it’s important to know what to look for. Power doesn’t automatically make a motorcycle better than its counterparts. In fact, we recommend finding a bike under 500cc. CC stands for cubic capacity, which refers to the engine’s strength. It will reduce your risk of getting into an accident if you are an inexperienced driver.
Get a motorcycle licence
Driving a motorcycle isn’t the same as driving a car. You will need to go through a separate graduated licensing system before you can ride on the road. Investing in motorcycle lessons will help you get your license and determine if it’s the right purchase for you. You could find out partway through lessons that you aren’t interested in going through the process, and that’s okay!
Find riding gear
Riding gear is an essential part of motorcycle safety. Think of your riding gear as fashionable yet functional because it’s used for multiple purposes. Before you hit the road, you will need to buy a helmet, leather jacket, gloves and boots. Once you have them all, you can hop on your bike and start driving down the road.
After you save enough money to buy a motorcycle, you can hit the road after you have taken the proper safety precautions. To stay safer on the road, refer to your motorcycle riding safety guide. Motorcycles have many uses, including long-distance travel and daily commutes. That’s why different bikes exist. With that said, we will explore the different types of motorcycles available in the next section.
Types of motorcycles available
There are many types of motorcycles to choose from. Consider how you’re going to use your motorcycle, your experience level and where you plan to use it before making a purchase. The style of motorcycle you settle for is as unique as you are. Do some research, ask your friends about their bikes and use this as an opportunity to determine the motorcycle that suits your needs. Without further ado, these are the options available:
Cruiser
The relaxed riding position, either solo or with a passenger, gives cruisers the look of traditional motorcycles with a more stylish, custom appearance. An aspect that differentiates them from their counterparts is their lower height, which allows your feet to touch the ground. These motorcycles are best for city riding, day trips, and commuting.
Dual purpose
Dual-purpose models work on and off-road and offer a wide range of engine sizes. They are ideal for those living in the city and those who commute regularly. Increased ground clearance, all-purpose tires, and extra suspension travel make them great for anyone looking for a versatile bike. If you’re considering buying a motorcycle, keep these in mind for city riding, off-road riding, going down gravel roads, adventure riding, and commuting.
Sportbike
Sport bikes draw inspiration from motorcycle racing, which makes them fast, fun, and available from 125cc and up. They boast high performance and a lot of horsepower. Built for expert riders with lightweight, wind-slicing bodywork, these engines are super powerful. Sport bikes are super versatile when it comes to where you can drive them. They work for city or highway riding, as well as solo rides and sports touring.
Touring
A touring motorcycle is made for its namesake. They are perfect for long-distance riding, tours, or day trips, which is why they have higher engine sizes. The difference between touring bikes and their counterparts is their ability to remain strong and comfortable enough for two people to ride all day. Touring bikes work well for long-distance travel, passenger, cargo, and commuting.
Sport touring
Sport touring bikes combine the features of a basic touring bike with high-performance features as a bonus. The purpose of this motorcycle is to provide the rider with performance and long-reach features. It’s perfect for long-distance travel, passenger, cargo, commuting and adventure terrain. Essentially, when buying a motorcycle like this one, you are getting the features of a sport bike and a touring bike.
Electric
Similar to cars, motorcycles are trying to be more sustainable. That’s why more people are opting to buy an electric motorcycle. This is popular for those who like to drive in the city because of the inexpensive maintenance costs and low operating costs. It isn’t a bad choice for those who don’t mind limited range and top speed.
Each type of motorcycle has its own pros and cons. Some people prefer a lightweight frame, while others care more about engine sizes. Only you can know when you find the right bike, which is why you should explore all your options. Try out different bikes before making a final decision. With that said, you should keep a few factors in mind when purchasing a bike, which we will discuss shortly.
Factors to consider when purchasing a motorcycle
It doesn’t matter how long you have ridden motorcycles. Whether you prefer a relaxed riding position or an upright riding position, there are a few key factors to consider when purchasing a motorcycle. Like purchasing a car, buying a motorcycle is a big investment. Here are elements to consider when hunting for a new bike:
Price
How much do you want to spend? What is your budget? These are questions you should be asking yourself when shopping around for a motorcycle. Prices will vary depending on where you purchase your motorcycle.
Bike condition
Similar to buying a car, you can buy a motorcycle in various conditions. You can get them new or secondhand, which can affect the price and how much usage you’ll get out of it. No matter the condition of the bike, you’ll want to ensure it’s in working order.
Bike technology and safety
Buying a motorcycle secondhand is perfectly acceptable. However, if you’re a new rider, you might want to consider the technology and safety features that come with newer models. Aspects such as lane assist as well as adaptive headlights can help keep you safe on the road.
Your riding experience
New and experienced riders will look for different things when buying a motorcycle. It makes more sense to have a lower cc if you’re a new rider because you don’t need an engine that is as powerful for casual use. In contrast, a more powerful engine is required for travelling long distances.
Driving licence
In order to drive a motorcycle, you need a separate driver’s licence. The motorcycle licensing system also uses a graduated licensing system. You will have to go through this process to legally operate your motorcycle and get insurance coverage.
Private seller or dealership
There are pros and cons to buying a motorcycle from a private seller vs. a dealership. When purchasing from a private seller, you might be able to get a lower price because there aren’t any dealer fees. However, you take the risk of flaws not being disclosed, and the bike will likely not be new.
Insurance coverage
Motorcycle insurance coverage will compensate you if you get into an accident. It’s illegal to drive without motorcycle insurance. It doesn’t matter whether you have a touring motorcycle or a preference for electric motorcycles; you need to get an insurance policy.
There are many aspects to keep in mind when purchasing a motorcycle. Having a clear plan will allow you to choose the best motorcycle for your needs. New and used bikes can be beneficial depending on your needs, but where do you buy a motorcycle? You can visit a dealership or purchase one used from a private seller. Next, we will compare those options and tell you how to go about your purchase in these scenarios.
Where to buy a motorcycle
Like your riding style, purchasing a motorcycle from a dealer is different from buying from a private seller. Whether you’re buying a used or new motorcycle, you have to take certain precautions to avoid getting ripped off. Motorcycle ownership is a significant responsibility that shouldn’t be taken lightly. It’s time to find out more about where you can buy a motorcycle:
Buying a motorcycle from a dealer
Whether you’re on the hunt for a traditional motorcycle or one with all the bells and whistles, the chances are a dealership will have what you need. This is especially helpful if you’re searching for a certain make and model. It’s much less tedious than searching online for a seller that has exactly what you’re looking for.
Visit the dealership, test drive a couple of bikes and make a final decision. Once you find a motorcycle that suits your needs, ask the salesperson what the out-the-door price is. Unlike the sticker, it includes taxes, registration, and any associated dealer fees.
It’s a good decision to go to a dealership because you don’t have to buy the motorcycle outright. There are many low-interest financing options that allow you to pay it off over a period of a few years. Keep in mind that you’ll need a good credit score to choose this option.
Another aspect that people might not think of is the warranty. A motorcycle warranty costs if the bike breaks down due to defective parts. However, tires, brakes, filters and lubricants aren’t usually part of these policies.
Buying a motorcycle from a private seller
You can easily buy a used motorcycle for a few thousand dollars from someone online. However, for your own safety, you should be wary. This will prevent you from overpaying or buying a defective motorcycle. With that said, we’ve prepared a list of steps to take when purchasing from a private seller.
Find out how much the motorcycle is worth
Like cars, motorcycles tend to lose their value as they age. This is because of wear and tear from regular use. By researching the bike’s blue book value, you can ensure you are being charged a fair price. Sellers can sometimes try to take advantage of new riders.
Look into the VIN
A VIN, or Vehicle Identification Number, will tell you everything you need to know about your new motorcycle. It will also allow you to obtain a vehicle history report. This report will include everything you need to know, including the ownership history, whether it has a clean or salvage title, and whether it’s been involved in any accidents.
Do a thorough inspection
Leaks, rust, and unusual wear can be red flags. You should look closely at the running gear, which includes the frame, wheels, brakes, and chain. Having a flashlight on hand will let you get a better look at the gas tank or difficult-to-see areas.
Even new riders do this inspection. Giving a bike a quick glance like this can tell you about its history. It will give you a chance to ask the owner questions so they can address your concerns.
Consider setting up a pre-purchase inspection with a professional motorcycle mechanic. Even if you’ve ridden motorcycles for years, you might just overlook something. These inspections are relatively cheap and can identify problems or give you reassurance.
Learn as much as you can
When purchasing a used motorcycle, you’ll want to ask lots of questions. Gathering as much information as you can before you make a decision is important. Here are some things you find out from the owner before you purchase:
- Reason for selling the motorcycle
- How long they’ve owned the bike
- If there have been any problems with the motorcycle in the past
- Whether or not the title in their name
- If the bike has a clean or salvage title
Educating yourself is important whether you purchase a motorcycle from a dealership or a private seller. However, you should take the same precautions you do when buying a car. It’s important to ask as many questions as possible and to back away from the sale if you feel like something isn’t right. If the opposite is true, go ahead with the purchase. Once you’ve done so, you’ll need motorcycle insurance, which we’ll talk more about shortly.
More about motorcycle insurance
In Canada, motorcycle insurance is required by law. Having insurance coverage will protect you, your motorcycle and others on the road. In addition to protecting you in the event of an accident, insurance coverage will protect you against theft and vandalism. The coverage you require will vary depending on the province in which you live. Continue reading to learn more about motorcycle insurance:
Motorcycle insurance costs
The cost of motorcycle insurance will vary depending on various factors. Insurance companies calculate your premiums in a similar way to car insurance. Here’s what you should know about the way insurance companies determine motorcycle insurance costs:
Age
Similar to car insurance, young riders can expect to pay more for insurance. This is because they have less experience on the road and are considered at a higher risk for accidents.
Driving record
Your driving record also includes your history as a motorcyclist. Having a clean driving record without accidents or convictions will lead to lower rates.
Your bike
Motorcycles with a larger engine size are more powerful and cost more to insure. Expect to pay more to insure sport bikes than standard motorcycles.
Where you live
Cities with denser populations have more cars and motorcycles on the road, increasing the risk of accidents. They also tend to have higher theft rates, increasing insurance premiums.
Types of motorcycle insurance coverage
Speaking with a licensed insurance broker will help determine your eligibility and what coverage you require before hitting the road. Some types of coverage are essential, similar to liability car insurance. Below, we discuss each type of insurance coverage available and whether it is mandatory for motorcyclists:
Third-party liability coverage
If you’re found to be at fault for an accident, third-party liability insurance coverage can help you out. It will prevent you from being held liable if someone gets injured or if you damage their property as a result of your actions. This motorcycle insurance coverage is mandatory.
Direct compensation - property damage
On the other hand, direct compensation - property damage insurance comes into effect if you’re involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault. As the name states, this mandatory type of motorcycle insurance coverage will directly compensate you for any damage taken.
Uninsured motorist coverage
Hit-and-run accidents happen all the time, and motorcycles are not spared from these atrocities. In the event that an uninsured, underinsured, or unidentified driver is found to be at fault for an accident, you are entitled to compensation for medical bills and damages through mandatory uninsured motorist coverage.
Accident benefits coverage
When drivers or passengers get injured or killed in an accident, who’s at fault doesn’t make a difference financially when you have accident benefits coverage. It will help pay for legal fees, damages and medical bills that came as a result of the accident. You need this coverage to drive a motorcycle.
Collision coverage
Getting into an at-fault accident increases the likelihood of damaging your vehicle. That’s why collision coverage is an option. It will help pay for the costs of repairing your motorcycle. If your motorcycle is written off, you will receive the cash value of the replacement costs minus your deductible.
Comprehensive coverage
Here’s where we differentiate between collision vs. comprehensive insurance. Motorcycles can be damaged in many ways, including accidents. If your motorcycle is damaged by theft, attempted theft, vandalism, fire, falling objects, lightning, explosions, or colliding with an animal, comprehensive coverage can help.
Accident forgiveness coverage
Accidents happen, but the moment you get into one, your insurance rates are likely to increase. That’s why accident forgiveness coverage also exists for motorcycles. This insurance coverage allows you to claim your first at-fault accident without increasing your insurance premiums.
Similar to car insurance, not all types of motorcycle insurance coverage are mandatory. However, even optional policies can be helpful in certain scenarios. Your best bet is to speak with an insurance broker who’s knowledgeable about standard motorcycles and their features. From there, you can choose an insurance policy that suits your needs and budget. Even with insurance, you still need to maintain your motorcycle, which is why we have some tips for you.
Maintaining your motorcycle
Assuming you made your way through the motorcycle buying process, you're ready to hit the road. Regardless of your riding skills, motorcycles are prone to wear and tear over time. That’s why we have compiled a list of maintenance tips to help you keep your motorcycle in top shape for years to come. Here’s what you need to know:
Tires
A motorcycle’s tires take a beating on a regular basis. That’s why it’s important to check the air pressure and inspect them for signs of damage. The right amount of air pressure will allow you to have better handling on the road and prevent blowouts. In turn, your tires will last longer.
Oil
The engine oil level should be full. Checking the oil levels isn’t too hard. All you have to do is put your bike on its centre stand and check the engine oil glass at the bottom of the engine. If it’s not full, add to it, and if the oil is black, change it.
Chain slack
The longer you ride your motorcycle, the higher the mileage. Unfortunately, this might cause your chain to start sagging. You can measure your chain slack yourself by pushing toward the swing arm. The most it should sag is 40 mm. If there’s too much slack, it can be tightened by loosening the axle nut and turning the feature bolts.
Brake pads
Like cars, motorcycle brake pads start to wear down. They are one of the parts that tend to go faster, so it’s important to pay attention to them during checks. Brake pads are found inside the brake callipers, and if they are getting close to 2mm, you should replace them.
Air filter
All standard motorcycles have air filters that tend to last for around 5,000 kilometres before you need to clean or replace them. If you ride your motorcycle off-road, then you’ll likely encounter dusty and sandy conditions, which require more frequent cleaning. When your air filter is very dirty or clogged, it’s your sign to replace or clean it.
Coolant
You should aim to replace your motorcycle’s coolant fluid at least every two years. As time passes, the coolant liquid will start to lose its effectiveness. Changing your coolant isn’t too hard. After putting your motorcycle on its centre stand, you can remove the fairings to reach the radiator, drain the old coolant, and replace it with new fluid. If you are not able to do this yourself, you can also take your bike to your local mechanic.
Like with any vehicle, you have to maintain your motorcycle. New and used bikes are prone to wear and tear, and if you don’t maintain them, they will deteriorate sooner. Even if you’ve had several bikes in the past, you should consider investing your time into your new one so it lasts even longer. With that said, purchasing a motorcycle is a big decision. You should be sure of your decision before committing to a bike to avoid financial repercussions later on.
Are you thinking of buying a motorcycle? Contact BrokerLink today!
Buying a motorcycle is an exciting step to take. However, you should understand the responsibility of owning a bike. Motorcycle safety is essential and shouldn’t be overlooked because accidents can happen. That’s where having motorcycle insurance can help you out. It will act as a safety net in the event that you get into an accident or your motorcycle somehow gets damaged. This can also help you experience the benefits of motorcycle riding without worry.
How can you get motorcycle insurance? You can take the tedious approach of calling around and speaking with various insurance companies, or you can get a broker to do the work for you. At BrokerLink, we understand that finding an insurance policy can be intimidating, which is why we are here to help. Contact us today to find a motorcycle insurance policy that suits your needs and budget.
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