Best Cheap Motorcycles for Beginners | Must Read For Newbies

Q. Should I buy a new or a used motorcycle as my first bike?

A. If you are thinking about buying a used motorcycle, it’s going to be a lot cheaper. Not only will you save money, you will also be able to choose different models that are currently not in production. Those are the only two pros for buying a used motorcycle, everything else is pretty much cons. When you buy used bike you don’t know how reliable that bike is, you don’t know how the previous owner treated it and this goes for dealers and private parties like Craigslist as well. There are certain things even the dealers will not be able to look.

However, with a brand new bike you spend more money but there is much less of a risk involved. You buy brand new bike with an assurance that as long as you take care of it, the bike will be very economical. Besides, a brand new bike comes with a good feeling knowing that you’re the first person to ride the bike. That is kind of satisfying somehow.

So in our opinion whether you should buy used or new; new bike is better pretty much in every single way. Unless you really like an old model bike that is currently not available in the market, it’s smart to save money until you are financially strong enough to buy a brand new bike.

Q. Things to know before buying a motorcycle

A. Firstly, make sure you have a repair manual. Go on eBay or Craigslist and buy one that’s used, you don’t really need a new one. They’re anywhere between $15 and $30 depending on your brand. These manuals will pay for themselves in many different ways throughout the ownership of the bike, and have all the information you could need to work on your bike.

To be honest the chances are very less that you do not miss anything while purchasing a brand new bike. However, there are some crucial things that need to be kept in mind while you are at it.

1. Make sure it’s not missing any parts.
2. Check the swing arm spools.
3. Make sure the chain is clean and properly waxed.
4. Check the engine oil level from the sight glass.
5. Check the air filter.
6. Check for any missing bolts and any type of dent/scratches.
7. Thoroughly check the handlebars and the foot pegs. Make sure they are tight and scratch free.

Q. Factors to consider when buying a motorcycle

A. There are few things you should consider before buying your first motorcycle.

First and the foremost thing before buying a motorcycle is to understand its usage. Think whether you are a daily commuter or a weekend getaway person. You can be cruising on a highway or hustling through the traffic on the same day, so think about the usage before purchasing.

Next comes the budget, fix a benchmark before you do your research. This will help you to sort the ones in your range.

Another important parameter is to consider the mileage.  Mileage specified by the manufacturers is conducted under test conditions; real-time fuel efficiency may vary in accordance with riding style and condition. So make sure you are aware of the mileage before finalizing one.

Most buyers will forget about this but it is equally important. Make sure you select the brand that provides maintenance, servicing and has an extensive network of sales and service with readily available spare parts.