It’s no surprise that riding a motorcycle safely is a skill that requires practice. New motorcyclists should find a motorcycle which they can handle comfortably, to improve their safety and minimize any risk of accidents. At Lawbike Motorcycle Injury Lawyers, we have worked with hundreds of riders who were badly hurt in accidents, so we fully appreciate how critical it is to remain upright on your motorcycle. We fully understand the importance of safety. After all, we ride ourselves.
What’s the best type of motorcycle for beginners? Ideally, you will find a motorcycle that isn’t too big or powerful. A Roswell motorcycle accident lawyer looks at some popular options for beginners.
A Mid-Size Cruiser Makes a Great First Bike
Inexperienced riders want to avoid any bike that is too heavy or too powerful—at least at first. You can always graduate to something with more power once you gain confidence. But a cruiser makes a great first bike.
This motorcycle is designed for comfort. The seat height is lower, so it’s easy to get your feet on the ground when you are stopped at a light. The handlebars are high and allow you to lean back.
This is also a popular style—the best-selling in North America, apparently—so there should be no problem finding a new or used cruiser on the market.
Not all cruisers are the same. Some are too heavy for a new rider and can make it hard to handle comfortably. However, there are entry-level cruisers on the market, which have smaller-displacement engines, which are attractive options for new riders.
Touring cruisers are often much too big, although they are great for people taking long rides. Still, you should find something that you can handle comfortably and then move on up to a different type of bike.
Sport Bikes Are Too Powerful (Although There Are Exceptions)
This is also a popular option for new riders, principally because it is lighter weight. Handling is a big issue for novice motorcyclists, however, and the lightweight nature of a sport bike might appeal to some. Others like the race orientated ergonomics, especially if they are riding downtown.
However, sport bikes tend to be too powerful. If you want a sport bike, then find a sub-400 cc motorcycle. The smaller displacement will be more comfortable—and safer—for a novice motorcyclist.
What About Standard Bikes?
This is another option for new riders. The “standard” motorcycle has a neutral riding position, which new riders find comfortable. You probably aren’t likely to go on long trips, at least at first, so the standard bike should fit the bill for short rides.
Unfortunately, you need to pay close attention to the power. Some larger standard models are too powerful for new riders and are on par with sport bikes. However, manufacturers are offering smaller bikes that could work great for a new rider.
Why Used Motorcycles Are Best
A used motorcycle is a great choice for someone just getting into motorcycling:
- You are probably going to drop your motorcycle at least one as you are learning, and you don’t need to damage a brand-new bike. Get one with some miles on it already.
- You might graduate to a more high-powered motorcycle—and soon—as you gain comfort. You don’t need to pay full sticker for a new motorcycle which you might have for less than a year.
- There might be more variety of used motorcycles available, so you can find one that’s the right fit for your size and comfort.
- You might decide you don’t like riding a motorcycle, so you end up giving it up. There’s no reason to buy a new bike for what turns out to be a temporary hobby.
Be careful with used bikes, however. Don’t accept a “hand me down” from a friend or sibling if it doesn’t work for you. The risk of an accident rises if the motorcycle is too big. This is a real problem for women hoping to get into riding, especially when they accept a brother’s old motorcycle.
Call After an Accident
Were you hurt in an accident? Many motorcyclists get into one crash at least. You should hire an experienced lawyer to help with bringing an injury claim. In Georgia, you can seek financial compensation from a negligent motorist who hits you or forces you off the road.
Motorcycle accidents are all we do. We’ve developed deep knowledge of the industry over the decades, and we are happy to share our knowledge with you. Call us today.