Written by Menswear Style in Cars on the 31st May 2018

Summer is finally upon us, and rather than spend your days tootling around in your four-wheeled cage (we are talking about your car), it may be that a motorcycle is just what you need. Heading out onto the highways and byways, you can raise a hand to those poor folks stuck in the traffic jams on Britain’s roads, and weave past them on your bike, with the wind in your face and the open roads of freedom ahead of you. Before you take the plunge and buy something, however, have a gander at this simple guide to help you make the right decision.

Reasons to buy a motorcycle 

If you’re at all unsure about buying a motorcycle, then you may want to stick to four wheels. However, there are all kinds of reasons why you should make the purchase. There is the cool factor for one, as well as the camaraderie you get from other motorcyclists. You will have no trouble parking a bike, and there is also the added world-saving benefit of low emissions. Think carefully before you buy, but you may never regret it if you do.

Where to buy a motorcycle?  

This isn’t really an issue, as there are bike sellers everywhere. You could look in the classifieds section of a bike magazine, visit a local dealer, or head online. You can even use Shiply to transport your motorbike to you if the seller is some distance away. However, if you aren’t looking to buy something brand new, follow these tips to ensure you don’t get burned when buying something second-hand. 

Think about the ongoing costs 

As with any car you may buy, there are all the other costs to consider after buying a bike. There are the fuel costs for a start, though you do get a better miles per gallon ratio on two wheels rather than four. Then there's the insurance costs, though you can shop around online to bring down the price. You also need to factor in the maintenance costs, especially if you have bought something second-hand. And finally there is the gear you need to ride around in, and we aren’t talking about the latest sunglasses to elevate your cool look when on the road. You will need a high-abrasion leather jacket, gloves, boots, and a helmet. You can go as fashionable as you want, but you will have to pay the price if you do. All in all, owning a motorcycle is expensive, though so is driving a car, so the expense may still be worth it.

Getting started on the road 

The first thing you need to do is work out what kind of motorcycle to buy. You need to think about what you will be using it for, as well as the height and size to fit your body. The best thing you can do is go online and look at motorcycle guides to help you find something right for you, as well as test-driving bikes at your local dealers until you find something which is comfortable to ride. Of course, you can’t ride your bike until you have taken the required tests, as you will need to take a CBT (compulsory basic training) before you are allowed out onto the roads. Check online for a test centre near you. When you have done all of this, practice to perfect your skills, and follow safety rules to ensure you don’t cause yourself or anybody else an injury.  

Final word  

Looking for excitement and adventure? Want to enjoy the thrill of the road? Eager to look cool in front of the ladies? Then buying a motorcycle may be for you, but follow our simple tips to make sure you get the most from being out on the road.

We discuss Reasons to buy a motorcycle and Where to buy a motorcycle in this Beginner’s Guide to Buying a Motorcycle