Is the open road calling your name? With beautiful weather and the turning of the leaves fast approaching, purchasing a motorcycle is the perfect choice to get the most out of a scenic drive. When it comes to motorcycles and exploring the open road, you have several options.
What are the Different Types of Motorcycles?
When it comes to motorcycles, there are many types to choose from. When purchasing a new or used motorcycle, it is important to know what your options are to make the best choice for you. Here is a breakdown of the different types of motorcycles:
Standard Motorcycles
Standard motorcycles have fewer bells and whistles but are great budget-friendly beginner bikes. Usually perfect for commuting, their upright riding posture makes these motorcycles less than ideal for riding long distances or off-roading.
Cruisers
Cruisers are ubiquitous as highway riding models, mainly popularized by the Harley-Davidson Brand and their distinctive handlebars and relaxed riding position. Often very heavy due to their large size, cruisers are not suitable for fuel economy or off-road driving.
Sport Motorcycles
Sport Motorcycles (also known as street bikes) are great for speed and maneuverability. Built for aerodynamics with delicate plastic parts and an extreme forward-leaning riding position, these bikes typically cost more to insure and favor more experienced riders.
Touring Bikes
Touring bikes are great for long rides. They are equipped with large fuel tanks and include adaptations to hold lots of luggage and tall fairings to block the wind. Due to the additional features and accessories, these bikes are more expensive and not ideal for riding in a city. However, these are the quintessential road-trip travel motorcycle, if that is your interest.
Dual-Sport Bikes
If off-road biking is your interest, Dual-sport Bikes may be the option for you. These motorcycles are built for rugged terrain and adventure with tall seats, high suspension, and aggressive tires. Unfortunately, due to their seat height, dual sports are not suited for shorter riders.
Types of Motorcycle Engines
Once you’ve decided what type of motorcycle you are interested in and selected a model, there is the engine size to consider. Since bike models come with various engine sizes, it’s essential to match your engine selection with your preferred riding style and experience level. Smaller power engines in the 250cc to 500cc range are cheaper to insure and more manageable for novice riders to handle, saving money and frustration in the long term.
What Other Costs Come with a Motorcycle?
Don’t forget to factor in additional costs like motorcycle insurance, riding gear, and motorcycle license fees if you do not already have one.
How Do I Finance a Motorcycle?
Now that you know what motorcycle you want and need to figure out how to finance your motorcycle. CTFCU can help. We offer flexible terms and competitive rates to suit your needs. Simply visit a branch, call or apply online to get started.
