Motorcycles are a fun, cheap alternative to cars, and they give their owner a great sense of freedom on the open road. There are approximately 9 million motorcycles registered in the United States as of 2012, and they are becoming a more popular mode of transportation. Motorcycles can be a great choice for a person who doesn’t have to travel far to work and wants to save money on gas; however, there are quite a few things to take into consideration before going out and purchasing one. The following are some of the things to think about before making the decision to buy a motorcycle:
Actual Costs
While buying a motorcycle is generally cheaper than buying a car, costs can still add up quickly and make owning one a financial disaster. The cheapest insurance rates for those with a perfect driving record run around $500 a year, but that’s without taking into consideration the many different factors insurance companies look at that don’t necessarily depend on the driver’s history. Then there’s the cost of maintenance and repairs. Motorcycles usually require maintenance more frequently than cars do, and motorcycle parts and accessories can be pretty expensive, with custom helmets for motorcycles ranging between $150 and $900. It’s a good idea to take into account all of the expenses of owning a motorcycle in the long run before going out and buying one.
Access to a Motorcycle Parts Store
Another thing to think about before purchasing a motorcycle is how easy or difficult it will be to purchase necessary parts and accessories. While motorcycles are becoming more popular, not all auto repair shops work on motorcycles, and not all auto parts stores sell motorcycle parts. Ordering parts online is always an option, but unless the owner knows how to make their own repairs and adjustments, they will still need to find a repair shop nearby that does motorcycle repairs.
Motorcycle Riding Safety Tips
Safety is another big concern when it comes to owning a motorcycle. It’s no secret that riding a motorcycle poses many risks, especially when driving alongside other, larger vehicles. Even when motorcyclists are careful, car and truck drivers often don’t pay as much attention to them as they should. Anyone considering buying a motorcycle should be well aware of the risks involved. They should also take the time to look up motorcycle riding safety tips and be sure that feel comfortable following them.
A motorcycle can be a great replacement for a car, but potential buyers should consider everything that comes along with ownership before making any big decisions. Calculating the actual cost of ownership, knowing where parts and repair shops are and understanding the importance of following motorcycle riding safety tips are all key considerations. An informed decision is a smart decision. Reference links: www.nichecycle.com
