How to Choose a Motorcycle That’s Right for You

1.    Decide on Your Intended Use

The first step in learning how to pick a motorcycle that’s best for you is to think about what kind of riding you want to do. Different types of motorcycles are designed for different purposes, and each has its own set of features and specifications. Do you plan to ride on the highway or stick to city streets? Are you more interested in off-road or trail riding? Knowing your riding style will help you determine what kind of motorcycle is best for you.

If you plan on taking long-distance rides, you may want to consider a cruiser or touring bike, which has a more relaxed riding position and is built for comfort. On the other hand, if you’re interested in off-road or adventure riding, you may want to consider an adventure motorcycle, which has a higher ground clearance and off-road capabilities. If you’re looking for high-performance, speed and a lightweight feel, then a motorcycle that’s more performance-oriented may be the fit for you. You can learn more about the different types of riding styles and accompanying motorcycles here.

2.    Consider Your Skill Level

It’s important to choose a motorcycle that is appropriate for your experience level. Many new riders make the mistake of choosing a motorcycle that is too powerful or too heavy for their current skill level, which can be intimidating to pick up. For beginners, a lightweight or standard is typically a good choice, as it provides good balance and maneuverability without sacrificing power or performance. If you haven’t yet ridden a motorcycle, it’s recommended to sign up for a motorcycle training course to learn the basic skills, too.

3.    Set Your Budget

Motorcycles can vary widely in price, so it’s important to determine your budget, but also the overall value you’re looking to get out of it, before you start shopping for a motorcycle. In addition to the purchase price of the motorcycle, be sure to factor in the cost of motorcycle insurance, regular maintenance and motorcycle parts and accessories when setting your budget.

If you’re on a tight budget, then purchasing a used motorcycle may be an option. The H-D1™ Marketplace offers a variety of Certified Pre-Owned motorcycles that can fit within a wide range of budgets. 

4.    Research Different Models

Once you know what kind of riding you want to do and what your budget is, it’s time to start researching different motorcycle models.

Reading reviews from other riders and talking to experienced motorcycle riders can be a good way to get recommendations and learn more about what to look for in a motorcycle. Consider visiting motorcycle forums or social media groups to get real feedback from other riders. It’s also a great idea to visit a local motorcycle dealer so they can talk you through what may be some of the right models for you. At a dealership, you can also sit on each motorcycle and even take a test ride to feel the differences firsthand. 

5.    Choose the Right Size and Comfort

Choosing a motorcycle that fits your body well and is comfortable to ride is an important consideration that can greatly impact your comfort and enjoyment while riding. Look for a motorcycle that accommodates your height and weight and allows you to easily operate the controls on your motorcycle.

Also, make sure to pay attention to motorcycle ergonomics while on the bike - the seat, handlebars, and foot pegs - and consider how they will impact your posture and comfort while riding. If possible, take a test ride to see how the motorcycle feels from a comfort level in real-world riding conditions.

6.    Check the Motorcycle’s Specs

When learning how to choose a motorcycle, it’s important to consider its technical specifications, performance capabilities, safety enhancements and more. Look at things like the size and power of the engine, the type of transmission and the suspension system.

Again, consider your riding style and preferences when choosing a motorcycle, and look for one that has the performance capabilities and systems to meet your needs. Remember that more powerful motorcycles are not always better, especially for new riders who may not yet have developed their riding skills or who prefer a more relaxed ride.

7.    Test Ride the Motorcycle

If you already have your motorcycle license, it’s also recommended to test ride a motorcycle to get the ultimate feel for it. This will give you an opportunity to see how the bike handles and feels on the road. Be sure to test ride on different types of roads and at varying speeds to get a feel for the bike. While test riding, pay attention to how it feels, how well it handles and how easy it is to maneuver. Take note of any vibrations, noises or other challenges that may impact your ride quality. Try different models too so you can compare and contrast the performance and feel before making a final decision on which one you prefer.