Choosing the Right Motorcycle: A Guide for Beginners

By  //  November 23, 2023

Choosing the right motorcycle is essential for beginners to ensure safety and minimize the risk of accidents. Fortunately, motorcycle accident attorneys can provide valuable assistance should an accident occur.

Here’s a guide for beginners on choosing the right motorcycle.

Consider Your Skill Level

As a beginner, it’s important to choose a motorcycle that matches your skill level and not one that’s too powerful. Look for a bike with a smaller engine capacity to gain experience and confidence before moving on to more powerful motorcycles. With a less powerful engine, you can learn proper motorcycle riding techniques more easily.

Beginners who choose a bike that’s too powerful can get into severe and even fatal accidents. If you have a small frame, do not pick a big motorcycle, as its weight and size will make it difficult to control and maneuver. Motorcyclists should consider getting fit to increase their endurance while riding motorcycles. 

Choose the Right Type of Motorcycle

Different types of motorcycles serve different purposes and have varying handling characteristics. Beginners need to consider factors such as intended use (commuting, touring, off-road, etc.) and riding position (sport, cruiser, standard, and others) to determine the most suitable type of motorcycle for their needs

Look for a bike with a saddle low enough to plant both feet flat on the ground when it is stopped. A motorcycle should fit your body shape and not be too heavy to handle. It should feel comfortable no matter what you’re doing. 

Researching Safety Features

It’s important to look for motorcycles with safety features such as anti-lock braking systems (ABS), traction control, and stability control. These features can enhance your ability to maintain control during emergencies and reduce the risk of accidents.

Get Proper Training

Before hitting the road, novice bikers should invest in professional motorcycle training and safety courses. These courses provide valuable knowledge and practical skills to help you handle your motorcycle safely and confidently. Without proper training, motorcycle accidents are inevitable since data from 2021 shows that about 419 motorcyclists will experience an injury per 100 million miles traveled. 

Inspect Motorcycle Paperwork

If you buy a used bike you should take your time checking all the bike’s paperwork and check with your state DMV to find out if its legally registered with the seller or if there are any liens against it from creditors. Avoid buying bikes from suspicious sellers or bikes that were previously wrecked as they might no longer be safe to ride.

Buy Protective Gear

After purchasing your bike, buy the appropriate protective gear, such as a DOT-compliant helmet, sturdy jacket, gloves, pants, and boots. This gear provides essential protection in an accident and can significantly reduce injuries. Without protective equipment, you may face some additional challenges while pursuing a motorcycle accident claim.

No matter what type of motorcycle you decide to use, if you are involved in a motorcycle accident, consult a motorcycle accident lawyer to ensure that your rights are protected, you receive fair compensation for your injuries and other losses, and have guidance throughout the legal processes.