If you are thinking of buying your first motorcycle you should read this motorcycle advice guide. Whether you want a basic 125cc scooter, or a heavy weight Harley Davidson for your first motorbike, you need a motorbike licence first. All new riders are required to undergo Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). This course usually only takes a day and is done away from public roads for the first part.
Once completed you’ll have a number of choices of first motorbikes depending upon your age.If you are 16 or over then you can ride a moped on a provisional moped licence - (classed as any machine with an engine smaller than 50cc). If you are over 17 years you can ride any bike up to 125cc, but for this you’ll need a provisional motorcycle licence. Most young riders will take their test on a motorcycle of this size.
Once new riders have their full licence, they’re restricted to buying motorcycles with a power output of up to 33bhp, for two years. However, if you are over 21 you can take your test on a larger bike and go straight onto any size of bike, once you have gained your full licence. Though, you can still only ride machines up to 125cc while awaiting your test. This procedure is known as Direct Access (or DAS).
Once you have the correct licence you need to consider what sort of riding you are planning on doing on your first motorcycle. If you are going to ride to work along crowded city streets then a super scooter, will be far more practical than a race replica sports bike. Whilst a dirt bike may be great in the mud, is it going to be any good to you if you plan on regularly touring with a passenger?
You also need to be realistic about what you can ride and what you can afford for your first motorcycle. If you only passed your test a month ago, it would be crazy to buy a 200mph Yamaha R1. After all, these motorbikes are designed to be ridden by seasoned riders, who have climbed the ladder of experience. You also need to consider whether you can afford the motorbike insurance for your first motorbike choice.
When you have an idea of what type of motorbike you want you need to set yourself a realistic budget for buying your bike, bike helments and any other ancillaries you may need. You also need to consider if you want to buy a new motorbike or a used motorbike.
Buy a used motorbike and you can avoid the depreciation that affects new purchasers. Go through a dealer to buy your first motorcycle and you should still be able to get a warranty and full after sales services. Shopping around can un-earth some real bargains, as everyone clamours to buy the next new phenomena. Buy a brand new motorbike and there is the satisfaction that only comes from knowing you are the first person to ride that bike. You should also be able to benefit from discounted insurance schemes and a range of finance plans.
Whatever bike you choose and wherever you choose to buy it the result will be the same hours of fun on the open ride. So just get out and ride.
UKBike.com has thousands of used motorcycles for sale, from private and trade sellers. There are also motorbike reviews on the site to help you choose your first motorcycle.