The Beginner’s Guide to Buying Your First Motorcycle
Owning your first motorcycle can be a life-changing experience. The freedom, adrenaline, and sense of adventure of riding are like nothing else. But buying a motorcycle isn’t as simple as picking one from a catalogue. There are many things to consider, such as your licence, budget, and understanding the different types of motorcycles before making a decision. The beginner’s guide to buying your first motorcycle will help you with what could be a really difficult decision.
I’ll help you to understand everything you need to know about buying your first motorcycle. We’ll cover budget, types of motorcycles, licensing, and beginner-friendly models. By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed choice and hit the road confidently.
Setting Your Budget: A Key First Step
Setting a budget is essential when buying your first motorcycle. Here are some factors to consider that will help you determine a budget that works for you.
a) Initial Purchase Cost
New motorcycles range from affordable entry-level models to high-end machines. In the UK, expect to pay between £3,000 and £10,000 for a new beginner-friendly bike, though you can find used options starting as low as £1,000–£2,000. The cost can vary significantly based on the brand, engine size, and features, so knowing what you’re willing to spend is essential.
b) Insurance Costs
Motorcycle insurance is mandatory in the UK and can vary widely depending on factors like your age, riding experience, and the bike’s engine size. For example, younger riders on 125cc motorcycles may pay between £200 and £600 annually. Here are some ways to potentially reduce insurance costs:
• Choose a smaller engine size: Opting for a 125cc bike as a beginner can reduce insurance premiums.
• Increase your voluntary excess: A higher voluntary excess can lower premiums but means you’ll pay more if you claim.
• Install security features: Adding an immobiliser or parking your bike in a locked garage may reduce costs.
• Telematics Insurance: Some insurers offer “black box” or telematics policies that track your riding habits and may lower rates if you’re a safe rider.
Investing in quality protective gear is essential for your safety. The UK requires that helmets meet specific safety standards, displaying marks like the BSI kitemark, ECE regulation 22.05, or British Standard BS 6658:1985. Budgeting for a complete kit can run between £500 and £1,000.
Essential items include:
Helmet: Entry-level helmets start from around £50. A mid-range helmet with good ventilation can cost between £ 100 and £300.
Jacket and trousers: Look for abrasion-resistant materials like Kevlar or Cordura with built-in armour. Expect to pay £100–£200 each.
Gloves: Reinforced gloves with added protection across the knuckles are a sensible choice. Prices start from around £30.
Boots: There is a vast range of motorcycle boots available. Consider those with good ankle and foot protection. Prices start from around £80.
In the UK, all new riders must complete Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) before legally riding on the road. CBT courses cost around £100–£150; this certificate lasts two years. If you want to progress to a full motorcycle license, budget for:
• Theory test (£23)
• Module 1 practical test (£15.50)
• Module 2 practical test (£75 on weekdays, £88.50 on weekends)
Additional training is usually beneficial for beginners, though it adds extra costs. Consider taking advanced training or joining a local riding school to build skills and confidence.
Types of Motorcycles: Finding the Right Fit
Motorcycles come in many styles, each designed for different types of riding. For beginners, selecting the right kind of motorcycle is essential. Here’s a breakdown of the major types available and what they offer.
a) Scooters and Mopeds
These small, lightweight bikes are great for city commuters and those looking for something simple to ride. With engine sizes from 50cc to 125cc, scooters and mopeds are easy to control and affordable to insure.
• Pros: Great fuel economy, easy handling, often inexpensive
• Cons: Limited speed and power, generally suited for shorter journeys
Scooters like the Honda PCX125 or the Piaggio Vespa Primavera 125 are solid choices for beginners. They’re practical for city travel and fuel-efficient, which is a big plus for commuters.
b) Sport Bikes
Built for performance, sports bikes have sharp handling, quick acceleration, and stylish looks. However, their high power and aggressive posture may not be ideal for beginners unless they’re scaled down to entry-level models.
• Pros: High performance, responsive handling, sporty design
• Cons: More challenging to handle, higher insurance and maintenance costs
The Yamaha YZF-R125 is a popular beginner-friendly sport bike. Its sleek, powerful look and manageable power make it a great option for riders who want a taste of the sports bike experience without being overwhelmed.
c) Cruisers
You’ve got to love a cruiser. Known for their relaxed, upright seating and classic style. They’re often heavier but offer a comfortable riding position, making them ideal for open-road cruising.
• Pros: Comfortable for longer rides, low seat height, stylish
• Cons: Heavier, less agile in urban settings
The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is an excellent cruiser for new riders. It has enough power for the open road and a relaxed seating posture that suits longer trips.
d) Adventure (ADV) Bikes
Adventure bikes offer versatility and can handle both on and off-road riding. They tend to have higher seats, so shorter or less experienced riders might find them challenging initially.
• Pros: Great for various terrains, suitable for long-distance travel
• Cons: Taller seat height, heavier, and may require more skill
An ADV bike like the BMW G 310 GS could be an entry-level choice for those envisioning weekend adventures on rural or rugged paths.
e) Standard/Naked Bikes
Standard bikes, also known as “naked”, balance power, comfort, and simplicity. They’re versatile and popular among beginners because of their user-friendly nature and lack of specialised parts, making maintenance more manageable.
• Pros: Comfortable and upright seating position, versatile, easy handling
• Cons: Generally lack the niche appeal of specialised models like cruisers or sports bikes
The Honda CB125F is a classic, beginner-friendly standard bike known for its reliability and low running costs. This makes it a favourite choice for many first-time riders.
Understanding the UK Motorcycle Licensing Process
The UK has a tiered motorcycle licensing system, which determines the engine size and power of bikes you can legally ride. Here’s a breakdown:
• CBT (Compulsory Basic Training): This one-day course is mandatory for anyone who wants to ride a motorcycle on UK roads. With a CBT, you can ride a bike up to 125cc with L-plates. You must retake the CBT every two years unless you progress to a full license.
• A1 License: Available from age 17, the A1 license allows you to ride 125cc bikes without L-plates and carry passengers. This license doesn’t expire, making it an option if you don’t plan to ride larger motorcycles soon.
• A2 License: At age 19, you can qualify for the A2 license, which allows you to ride bikes with up to 47 horsepower (often around 300cc–500cc). This requires passing both practical tests (Module 1 and Module 2).
• Full (Category A) License: At 24, or after holding an A2 license for two years, you can qualify for the full A license. This allows you to ride any motorcycle, regardless of size or power.
Best Beginner-Friendly Motorcycles
Choosing a bike suited for beginners means finding one that’s easy to handle, has manageable power, and is affordable to maintain and insure. Here’s a list of popular beginner-friendly models in the UK:
a) Honda CB125F
A standard bike with a reliable 125cc engine, the CB125F is known for its simplicity, fuel efficiency, and comfortable riding position. It’s an excellent choice for daily commuting and offers low running costs.
• Engine Size: 125cc
• Pros: Reliable, easy to handle, affordable
• Cons: Limited power, basic features
b) Yamaha YZF-R125
This entry-level sports bike with a 125cc engine combines sporty styling with a manageable power level. Its design is ideal for those who want the feel of a sports bike without high insurance costs or overwhelming power.
• Engine Size: 125cc
• Pros: Attractive styling, easy handling for a sport bike
• Cons: Slightly higher cost for a 125cc bike
c) Kawasaki Ninja 400
The Ninja 400 offers power and control for riders stepping up from smaller bikes. With a sporty look and a relatively lightweight build, it’s suited for beginners with an A2 license looking for a fun ride.
• Engine Size: 399cc
• Pros: Lightweight, responsive, manageable for new riders
• Cons: Higher running costs and insurance than 125cc bikes
New Versus Used Motorcycles: Pros and Cons
For first-time buyers, deciding between a new or used motorcycle can take time and effort. Here’s a quick breakdown:
New Motorcycles
• Pros: Warranty, no wear-and-tear issues, latest features
• Cons: Higher cost, more significant depreciation
Used Motorcycles
• Pros: Lower initial cost, often cheaper insurance, less depreciation
• Cons: Potential maintenance issues, limited warranty, if any
When buying used, check the bike’s service history, inspect for damage or wear, and ideally, have it inspected by a mechanic.
Additional Considerations for First-Time Motorcycle Buyers
Buying your first motorcycle is about more than just choosing the bike. Here are some extra tips to help you on your journey:
• Plan for Regular Maintenance: Routine upkeep, including oil changes and brake checks, is essential for safety and longevity.
• Consider Resale Value: Some bikes hold their value better than others, which is worth considering if you plan to upgrade later.
• Take a Safety Course: Additional safety courses can boost your skills and confidence on the road even after passing your tests.
Conclusion
Buying your first motorcycle in the UK is a thrilling process, and with careful planning, you’ll be ready to hit the road safely. By setting a budget, understanding the types of motorcycles available, navigating the UK licensing system, and selecting a beginner-friendly model, you’re well on your way to making an informed choice.
Take your time, enjoy the ride, and welcome to the world of motorcycling!
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