Summer is the perfect season for motorcycle enthusiasts. The clear roads and warm temperatures are ideal for taking a bike out and exploring the city or driving through country roads. As more men and women are interested in these two-wheeled vehicles, the market is becoming more competitive, and new models are released every year.
When it comes to buying a motorcycle, it can feel overwhelming. Finding the right motorcycle dealership may take time to identify the shop with the brands you need and the quality of bikes you’re looking for.
Here’s what to look for when buying a motorcycle this summer.
Proper Ergonomics
Since a motorcycle is a significant financial investment, it’s essential that the bike you choose is best suited for your body which may be more challenging to navigate than anticipated. Even if you sit on the bike at the dealership or take it out for a brief test drive, your comfort level will change once you’re out on the road for extended periods, which is why tailored ergonomics is key.
It’s essential to take the time and imagine being on a bike for long hours and identify where your weight is placed — whether it falls on your wrists or your knees and how far extended your arms are when you’re riding. If you’re going to invest your money in a motorcycle, physical comfort is essential.
The Right Seat Height
Since everyone’s height varies, a bike’s seat height will be an essential factor in your decision. This is especially important for anyone with a shorter stature. The seat height of a motorcycle is the unit of measurement from the lowest point of the saddle to the floor when it’s standing upright.
There is a spectrum of bike saddles in various sizes and heights — as bikes themselves are built for several functions. The only way to ensure your comfort is to try multiple styles of bikes to make sure you’re satisfied with the shape of the seat and your height to the ground.
Enough Storage
While motorcycles are favored for their simplicity, that doesn’t mean all riders want a bike with zero storage capacity. In some cases, riders take their bikes on long drives and want to ensure they can pack their essentials. Some bikes are equipped with top cases or saddlebags, while others may come without but can be fitted for additional storage.
Appropriate Sound & Noise Volumes
Motorcycles aren’t known to be silent on the road, but there are differences in volume between models. A bike with larger pipes will often let out an aggressive rumble, while others can emit a softer tone. The simplest way to identify your comfort level when it comes to the volume of the bike is to take it for a test drive. Once you’re out on the road, you can identify how comfortable you are with the noise your bike is emitting and if you’re able to handle the noise for both short and long drives.
