Introduction
When some biker zooms past you, your eyes automatically turn to see the bike. A motorcycle attracts youngsters, both boys and girls, and it is natural to aspire to own one. But, do you know what type of bike suits your personality and physique and how to select?
This article has some useful tips for a motorcycle buyer, both first-time and repeat buyers.
Tips for buying a new bike
Riding experience
If you are a regular cyclist and have good experience riding a bicycle, the transition from bicycle to motorcycle will not be difficult. Take a Learner’s Licence before attempting to ride a motorcycle. Seek the help of a senior motorcycle rider in your family and practice riding and learning controls in an open field. Do not ride on the road till you are confident. Request your senior rider to sit on the pillion and guide you when riding on the road.
If you are not a regular cyclist and do not have experience riding a bicycle on the road, you should join a motorcycle riding school to learn riding.
Note: It is not safe to ride a motorcycle without learning how to ride it.
Know the cost of owning a motorcycle.
What is your budget for the motorcycle? Indian motorcycle manufacturers offer motorcycles for every budget. The ex-showroom Delhi price for an entry-level 100/110 CC motorcycle can start from INR 68,000 and 125 CC motorcycle INR 87,000.
If you have a heavy build and athletic personality, you can think of a 350 cc motorcycle with an entry-level ex-showroom price of INR 1,90,000.
You incur additional expenses towards the cost of vehicle registration, state road tax, insurance, essential accessories, safety gear (helmet, hand gloves, shoes), etc. Consider the total cost.
Cost of regular maintenance
Your motorcycle needs periodical maintenance as recommended by the manufacturer. Some motorcycle manufacturers may offer an attractive price when buying but can charge you heavily for service. Be clear what is your periodical maintenance cost for at least 5 years (including the cost of an oil change, filter change, tire, and battery replacement, etc.).
Select a motorcycle that fits your physique and riding capability.
Motorcycles come in different engine capacities, styles, height, and weight. If you are a first-time motorcycle buyer, stick to an entry-level motorcycle under 150 cc. Select a motorcycle that suits your height. When you sit on the motorcycle, your feet should be firmly on the ground, and should be able to reach the handle, and all controls with ease and comfort. Go for a trial ride and ensure yourself whether the motorcycle size fits your body or not.
A motorcycle that does not fit your body is not safe, causes discomfort, and can lead to an accident.
The power and speed of a motorcycle can be tempting but is not safe for an inexperienced first-time buyer.
Types of motorcycles
Basically, there are seven types of motorcycles viz. street bikes, cruisers, sport bikes, touring motorcycles, sport touring bikes, off-road motorcycles, and dual-sport bikes. The first step in buying your bike is which type of bike you want to buy? Research with Google to understand the types of bikes and which bike suits your purpose. The article ‘Types of Motorcycles’ and ‘Popular Motorcycles in India ‘may help you.
Type of engine
Today’s motorcycles are fitted with 4-stroke Internal Combustion (IC) engines and the number of engine cylinders can be 1 to 6 arranged in inline, V-twin, or others. The image below briefly explains the working of a 4-stroke IC engine. The fuel used is gasoline (petrol).
Engine size
This is an important specification to consider when buying a motorcycle. The engine size of a bike is specified in cc (cubic centimeters). As the engine size increases, the motorcycle’s power, weight, and cost also increase. Motorcycles of 150 CC or below can be suitable for a first-time buyer and it works good for regular commutes to work or college, and occasional long-distance rides.
Gearbox
Check the number of speeds.
Seat height and weight of the motorcycle
The physical dimensions of a motorcycle are important. When you sit on the motorcycle, your feet should firmly touch the ground, and you should be able to reach the handle and controls without exerting yourself. You should be able to handle the motorcycle’s weight when riding, standing at signals, parking, and taking it out for a ride.
Fuel efficiency
Fuel efficiency is how many kilometers you can ride per liter of petrol and is an influencing factor for motorcycle buyers. The higher the engine size, the lower the fuel efficiency. Unless you need more power to ride in a hilly area, go for a motorcycle with moderate power that gives good fuel efficiency.
Fuel tank capacity in Liters
Check the capacity of the fuel tank (liters). Does it have a reserve capacity?
Availability of after-sale service
Ensure your motorcycle manufacturer has an authorized service center near you and that their service and spare part charges are competitive.
Starting system
Almost all the motorcycles come with electric start now. Also, most under 350 cc motorcycles come with a kick start. Kickstart is an important feature that helps you start the motorcycle when the battery is weak or dead. If you are stranded with your motorcycle with a dead battery (and without a kick start) in the middle of a highway, you are forced to wait for a good Samaritan to jumpstart your motorcycle.
Bluetooth connectivity
Many motorcycle manufacturers give Bluetooth connectivity as a standard or an optional feature even for entry-level motorcycles. This is a good feature to consider.
Headlight, tail and brake light, and indicators
The purpose of lights on a motorcycle can be dual. The first is you should be able to see the road and vehicles in the dark and the second is other drivers on the road should be able to see you and your bike in the dark. Ensure your bike has a good lighting system, LED is preferred.
Front and rear shock absorbers
Feel the working of the shock absorbers during the trial ride. Good shock absorbers make your ride bearable even on bumpy roads. The shock absorber at the rear wheel can be mono-shock or dual-shock.
Brakes
The brakes can be drum or disc type. ABS or Anti-lock Braking System is a safe braking system for the motorcycle. ABS is a good option to take and it is a useful safety feature. Smaller bikes may have a combined braking system (CBS).
Tires
The tires can be standard or radial and they can be with tube or tubeless. The manufacturer may give an option of the wide rear tire. Please see what suits you best.
Ground clearance
This is the height from the ground to the bottommost part of the motorcycle.
Kerb weight
Kerb weight is the weight of the motorcycle filled with fuel and oil and ready for ride.
You may read the article ‘Terms Used in Motorcycle Specifications.’
Add-on accessories
- Most motorcycles do not provide storage space. Think of a stylish side bag or box to accommodate your essentials and luggage, especially for motorcycles used for commuting and touring.
- Many new riders have experienced burn wounds on their leg due to hot exhaust pipes. Think of a heat-protective shield or cover on the exhaust pipe to save you from leg burns.
- Windshield to protect you from blowing wind and rain.
- A crash guard or crash bar will stop the motorcycle from coming over you in case of an unfortunate fall. This is an essential must-fit accessory.
Brand
You have several branded motorcycle manufacturers in India. How to select a particular brand? Your selection of a particular brand should be based on its reputation of a quality product, efficient and economical after-sales service, value for money, and competitive price. Do the following, before deciding.
- Take the opinion of the senior rider in your family and friend circle.
- Read the reviews on the internet.
- Ask questions to the dealer.
After the purchase
Now, you are the proud owner of a motorcycle and it will be your companion for a long time. Keep your motorcycle healthy and fit and it gives you safe and trouble-free rides. Follow the periodic maintenance chart recommended in the Owner’s service manual.
Always do a physical inspection and routine checks of your motorcycle before undertaking a long journey. Check periodically oil level, tyre pressure, fuel in tank, brakes, air and oil filters, battery, drive chain, and anything abnormal.
Safety
Do not forget to purchase a top-quality and ISI-approved full-face helmet and make it a part of your motorcycle. Wear the helmet on all your rides. If you are living in a cold place, you must purchase and wear bike rider gear like hand gloves, jackets, shoes, etc.
Conclusion
Owning a new bike is an important happening in your life. Purchase your bike only after making a thorough study, and a trial ride. Hopefully, this article will help you in deciding a bike that suits your needs and personality. Wishing you all a happy and safe ride!!