Are you a college student looking for a two-wheeled companion for your daily commuting needs? Considering the financial investment to be made on a motorcycle, much thought should be invested to avoid regrets after your investments.
Having invested in multiple channels for assistance with your college study, you cannot afford to introduce the additional stress of a motorcycle that will drive you to financial jeopardy. Like selecting thesis writing services or deciding to invest in a study tool, there are many considerations for your motorcycle purchase.
Unfortunately, when buying your first motorcycle, you have little knowledge of the features to prioritize for an amazing experience. Luckily, you have us to understand the intricacies that could set your ideal motorcycle from any other option on the market.
Ranging from fuel efficiency to cost, this article will highlight the features you should prioritize as you purchase your motorcycle. Whether you are after a sporty ride or a reliable commuter, read on for tips to ensure maximum value from your purchase.
Tips for Selecting the Right Motorcycle for College Students
Budget
When working on a tight student budget, you must strike a balance of quality and affordability in your motorcycle purchase. For this, you could consider a properly-maintained, second-hand motorcycle to avoid the high cost of a brand-new motorcycle without compromising on the service of your investment.
Also, research your motorcycle brand to establish the maintenance costs and the availability of spare parts for your preferred brand. You could also seek a dealer that offers student discounts to further reduce the initial cost of owning your first motorcycle.
Engine Size
Also worth noting as you make your motorcycle purchase is the engine size. Smaller engines ranging between 125cc to 500cc are easier to handle and, thus, a great option for a beginner. Also, smaller engine sizes offer higher fuel efficiency compared to larger options.
Therefore, prioritize a smaller engine size to enjoy lesser fueling costs, making huge long-term savings. A smaller engine also comes with lower insurance costs, as many insurance providers charge lower premiums for smaller engines.
Reliability
Getting quality value for your money requires much more consideration than walking into a lot and selecting the first motorcycle to cross your sight. Before you settle for any motorcycle, we suggest that you check the reputation of the various brands at your disposal.
Established brands are likelier to offer you quality service, incurring lower maintenance costs. When buying a used motorbike, check its maintenance history to ascertain that good care was taken, ensuring that the engine and chassis of your preferred motorcycle are in good shape.
We also advise that you check product reviews to determine the quality of service your motorcycle model has offered other owners. Finally, have a professional mechanic check your motorcycle before purchase and get their insights regarding the condition of your motorcycle.
Used vs. New
As stated, used motorcycles often cost less than their used counterparts. However, new motorcycles are less likely to have potential defects from previous use. Also, new options come with a warranty and attract lower insurance premiums as they are less likely to develop damages.
Used options, however, come at a low cost due to the depreciation over time. Provided you can find a properly maintained option, you can ensure a high quality of service for a long duration. We, however, recommend that you steer clear of very old options as these could incur higher insurance costs and present a major challenge in securing spare parts.
Comfort and Ergonomics
If you are looking for a motorcycle for long commutes, consider the comfort your motorcycle will offer. For maximum comfort, seek a model that allows you to sit comfortably with your feet touching the ground when the bike is stationary.
Also, check for a padded seat that supports your body shape and ensure that the bike has quality suspension to take on various terrain with minimum vibrations. Finally, consider features such as adjustable seats and handlebars to modify your motorbike for maximum benefit.
Storage Options
If you often need to carry luggage to and from class, consider a motorcycle with sizable built-in compartments and features to add accessories like saddle bags and top cases.
Safety Features
Some of the safety features to consider when buying a new motorcycle include a quality braking system, safety gear, and maneuverability. An anti-lock braking system is a great option to insist on as it prevents the wheel from locking in case of sudden braking.
This reduces the chances of skidding and losing control, allowing you better control of your motorcycle in case of an emergency. Also, consider a motorcycle that comes with various safety features like a helmet, gloves, and a jacket to lower the risk of injury in case of an accident.
Other features to consider include traction control, reliable headlights, and reflective elements to ensure your visibility to fellow motorists.
Test Ride
When buying a motorcycle, we recommend that you first take a test ride before penning down a purchase agreement. This ride will help you determine the comfort of your motorcycle and to identify any issues that the seller may have withheld.
Ideally, have an expert mechanic take the test ride as they are better placed to identify any potential defects.
Insurance Costs
It is worth noting that the type of motorcycle you select can impact the insurance premiums charged. Sports bikes attract higher insurance costs than standard bikes and are more prone to accidents and theft.
Also, the engine size and age of your motorcycle could impact the insurance charge, with larger engine sizes and older bikes pushing the insurance price toward the higher end of the spectrum.
Final Take
Buying your first motorcycle does not have to be complicated. The insights in this article should come in handy to help you gauge various options at your disposal and make an investment that’s worth your money.
Feel free to engage your friends for any motorcycles on sale and also to hear their feedback regarding their preferred options among the models you are selecting from.