Posts Tagged ‘how to shop for a motorcycle’

How to Shop for Motorcycles

There are precious few things in a consumer’s life quite as exhilarating as shopping for a brand new motorcycle.  Many consumers opt to start their search with a visit to motorcycle dealerships specializing in various brands (e.g. BMW, Honda, Harley Davidson, etc.) but there are many avenues to pursue prior to performing on-site visits. The best place to start sourcing information is online and every major manufacturer hosts a website containing a wealth of information, including manufacturer’s suggested prices and about their products.

Standard bikes, sport bikes, cruisers, touring motorcycles… there are many different types of bikes from which to choose, and prices tend to range from $5,000 to $50,000 plus. This might be a bargain compared to some other means of transportation such as trucks, vans, or busses. Posted prices are based typically on the manufacturer’s suggested list or retail price (MSRP) and they do not include optional packages, accessories, additional dealer costs, license fees, or applicable taxes.

Bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better when discussing a rider’s ability to handle an oversized vehicle. After a decision has been made to buy a specific bike, the next decision involves the rider’s own physical self. For example, a rider that weighs 140 pounds and stands 5 feet 5 inches tall may have a difficult time managing a 1200cc cruiser that weighs 800 pounds. The vehicle’s weight is a very important consideration for slow-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability. If the bike should fall over for any reason, the rider must be able to upright the bike without assistance. Everyone drops his or her bike at one time or another, so it’s absolutely essential every rider be able to manage the bike without help.

Motorcycle accessories are required mainly for two reasons and there is good business in both. The first one is comfort. This segment includes seats, handles, grips, foot rests as major accessories amongst many others. Many other accessories help in providing a comfortable ride and people like shopping for them. There is a range of hand grips and foot rest that accommodate buyer’s size and requirements. Another reason why people go for accessories is the safety. A simple accessory like helmet lock can solve all the user’s worries and he or she can move carefree keeping the helmet in the parking lot with the bike. This has encouraged many people to use helmet and has indirectly added to driver’s safety.

The most popular month to purchase end-of-season models is December but consumers can still find deals on 2009 models in the following year, providing there is stock available. Many communities host motorcycle shows, exhibitions and other sales events in January-February too. Motorcycle exhibitions are excellent locations to view new models and examine old stock dealers may have for sale. Dealers always want to sell old stock and make way for new vehicles. Make an offer on a demonstration bike with low mileage and it’s possible to score a great deal – with full warranty and servicing included.

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