I hope my articles have been helpful so far to those seeking insight on entering the motorcycle world. Again, though my target audience is female novice riders, anyone who rides can appreciate free advice and share a laugh or two of being in similar situations. In fact, even though riding alone is a lot of fun, there is something to be said for riding with a group of bikes. Loud pipes, leather jackets, and beautiful bikes are always crowd pleasers. I cannot count how many times I have been waved at by kids and other fellow riders. Sharing the thrill of riding with others, on bikes or not, is remarkable. The key is to be responsible about it, and by that I mean to resist stoppies, wheelies, and burnouts in the middle of traffic.

As I stated before, track days and advanced courses are the appropriate place to drive the bike how it was designed to be ridden and to test your riding skills in a safe environment. You can find ample information about these events online or at bike dealerships (which leads me to my next tip).

9. Bike dealerships are the "safest" places to purchase your first used bike. If you are not familiar with motorcycles, individual sellers may take advantage of you by trying to pawn off a bike that has been "only dropped once". Though it may be more expensive initially to buy a bike from a dealer, in the long run it may save you a lot of regret. I bought my first rebuilt bike from a bike shop in Daytona, Florida. He also added a one year warranty on every bike he sold, even though they were all rebuilt. I bought a 2000 Honda F4 for about $5000 (in 2000). The only reason I would purchase a bike from an individual seller is if a warranty remains. If you choose this option, take the bike to the dealer for an inspection first. Never buy a bike from a person unless you have it inspected by a certified mechanic first. If you have to have a new bike as your first bike, which will depreciate the moment you leave the dealer, please accept that there is very high chance it will be dropped or wrecked. If this happens, you will not be given what you paid at the dealer by your insurance company. Please know this fact upfront.

One other very important point about purchasing a used bike from a dealer is that you may have a better guarantee it was "broken in" properly. Every new bike must be broken for so many miles depending on the manufacturer. Be sure to ask the service department all of those questions regarding maintenance and break in when you are ready to purchase your first ride. I realize everyone is on a budget and cannot afford a $15,000 R1. Be realistic, but also remember you get what you paid for. Even though I have a rather hefty monthly payment (on a 1000cc bike), I have a service plan and peace of mind -- and the bike of my dreams. You can have an affordable payment with a 600cc bike and a bike you can truly handle as a new rider (and cheaper insurance).

10. Do not buy anything less than a 600cc bike. I say this because you will regret it. If you want a scooter, buy a scooter not a motorcycle. Once you get experienced and more comfortable on the road, you can always get a 750cc or more. However, if you purchase a 500cc Kawasaki and spend a lot of time on the highway, you will not have all the power you want when you are looking for it. A 600cc bike is all any rider really needs. Most of the men I ride with have Honda 600's. They are very experienced and I am oftentimes looking at their taillights as they are rocketing away in the distance. 600cc sportbikes are very agile, fast, and affordable. If you are looking at a cruiser, you can handle a bigger sized motor. I had a 1300cc Honda that rode as smooth as a Cadillac at 100mph (again I am only 5'3").

Whatever you decide to purchase, I truly suggest you take the dealer route if at all possible. However, if you feel you can save money from an individual seller, please take it to a mechanic first at the very least. Either way, a 600cc motor is a good start that any rider can be happy with. Many sportbike riders I know have ridden for over 10 years and prefer 600cc engines. As a rider, you are always growing and learning new techniques to improve your skills. But, always be safe and ride in your comfort zone.

Take your time, ride your ride.

Continue Reading

Motorcycle Advice for Women (and Men)

Motorcycle Advice for Women (and Men) part 2.

Motorcycle Advice for Women (and Men) part 3

Motorcycle Advice for Women (and Men) part 4

Motorcycle Advice for Women (and Men) part 5