Buying a motorcycle is not the most difficult part of the decision, but making the right decision when it comes to purchasing it. We have to look not only for affordability and practicality but, above all, safety that fits our needs and provides security in many aspects. This choice is not as straightforward as it seems. Here, we explain the landscape.
Assess Your Riding Needs:
When determining which motorcycle is safest for you, consider several factors. First, think about how and how often you plan to use it. Whether your idea is to commute daily in the city, a scooter is an excellent choice. They are lightweight, agile, and cost-effective, ideal for urban life. But if you have weekend getaways and long trips in mind, a heavier, higher-displacement motorcycle is the right choice, as it allows you to travel long distances safely and comfortably.
Now, if you’re looking for a balance between both uses, a lightweight medium-displacement motorcycle is suitable. It allows you to navigate the city with ease and, at the same time, enjoy road adventures without any issues.
How to Choose the Safest Motorcycle?
Choosing the safest motorcycle for your needs is not about focusing on specific brands or models. The key is finding a bike that is easy for you to ride and that you feel comfortable. No matter if it is a renowned brand or a latest-generation model. The important thing is that you can control it without problems, feel at ease while riding it, and not have difficulty maintaining balance on the road.
Key Steps for Choosing a Motorcycle:
- Comfort and Safety Suitable for Your Size
Comfort and safety are two key aspects when choosing a motorcycle. It’s essential that your feet can touch the ground while you’re on the bike, as this will make you feel more comfortable and secure. It is not enough to look at the technical specifications on paper; you need to get on the motorcycle and check if the seat is wide and high enough for you. It’s like trying on a pair of shoes; you must ensure that it fits your body perfectly to enjoy a comfortable and safe ride.
- Motorcycle Weight
The weight of a motorcycle is essential when choosing the safest one for you, as the motorcycles vary in weight. Some lighter ones, like scooters or mopeds, can weigh around 200-250 pounds, while larger touring motorcycles can exceed 900 pounds.
If you are new to motorcycle riding or have little experience, a heavy motorcycle can be challenging to control. If you lean it and don’t have the strength to upright it, you could encounter problems, especially at high speeds. While manufacturers design motorcycles to be stable for a variety of riders, they cannot prevent a heavy motorcycle from feeling overwhelming.
So, before you ride a motorcycle, be sure you are comfortable with its weight. Ensure you can easily lift it from the side stand and mount it with both feet on the ground while maintaining balance. It will help you determine if you have the necessary strength to maneuver it safely on the road.
The bike’s weight can significantly impact your comfort as a rider. Some motorcycles, like cruiser-style ones, offer many comfort-focused features, but these amenities can add weight.
- Expenses
It is always good to consider the monthly expenses you will incur when riding a motorcycle. In addition to fuel costs, you must consider other charges, such as protective gear, extra equipment, and, most importantly, taxes and insurance. The latter is essential to protect you in the case of any unexpected situation on the road. So, when making a decision to buy a motorcycle, remember to plan and budget to cover all these monthly expenses. This way, you can enjoy your trip without any unpleasant financial surprises.
- Choose the Body Style That Best Fits Your Riding Style
Your motorcycle’s body style should match your riding style. Whether it’s a lightweight scooter for city commutes or a larger bike for long trips, choose a style that complements your riding habits.Your motorcycle’s body style should match your riding style. Whether it’s a lightweight scooter for city commutes or a larger bike for long trips, choose a style that complements your riding habits.
- Consider Your Experience
Experience is a crucial factor when choosing a safe motorcycle. If you’re a beginner in the world of motorcycles, it’s essential to opt for a lighter, lower-displacement motorcycle. These motorcycles are easier to handle and allow you to gain confidence as you get used to riding. They’re also ideal for learning basic riding skills. On the other hand, if you already have some experience in motorcycle riding, you have more freedom to choose a motorcycle that suits your preferences and needs. You can opt for a larger-displacement motorbike, one with more weight, or a different style, depending on your experience and comfort level. The key is to feel secure and comfortable on the motorcycle you choose, regardless of whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider.
- Safety Features
Look for motorcycles with advanced safety features like efficient braking systems, quality tires, traction control, and impact protection. These additions can significantly enhance your safety on the road.
- Will You Have a Passenger?
If you plan to have someone ride with you on a regular basis. The passenger seat should be comfortable and secure, and your passenger should be able to get on and off smoothly to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.
Additionally, be sure your motorcycle has the necessary features, such as footrests and passenger handholds, to enhance their comfort and safety during the ride. The safety and comfort of both occupants are critical when choosing a motorcycle.
- Will You Carry Cargo?
Cargo is another factor to consider when choosing a motorcycle. Traveling with a bulky backpack on your back can be dangerous as it affects your balance and comfort. A rear trunk will allow you to carry your belongings safely without compromising your stability on the road. So, if you plan to carry cargo, be sure your motorcycle has options for installing a rear trunk to make your travels safer and more comfortable.
- The Helmet
Wearing a helmet lowers the risk of brain injuries during accidents and protects against other injuries too. Not wearing a helmet can make accidents more dangerous and affect your life.
It’s important to ensure that your helmet is DOT-certified and fits your head properly. A helmet that is too loose won’t provide the necessary protection in the event of an accident. Additionally, consider choosing a helmet with a face shield, as in some states, having this feature is mandatory to prevent objects or insects from interfering with your visibility. Complying with helmet laws in your state and any place you travel to is essential, so it’s recommended to always wear a DOT-approved helmet.
Legal Advice
It’s important to remember that helmet use laws vary from state to state, so you need to be aware of regulations if you plan to travel through different states.
If you are ever involved in an accident, a specialist attorney can help you understand your rights and seek compensation from the responsible parties.
Don’t hesitate to contact a lawyer as soon as possible after an accident to get advice on your legal options and rights. Road safety is paramount, and taking steps to protect your well-being is essential.