Buying Your First Motorcycle

AUTOMOTIVE · GLOBAL

Buying Your First Motorcycle

Licence categories and training, what bike to start on, gear and checking a used bike

Getting onto two wheels involves a licence structure, a training requirement and a set of protective equipment, and the bike is frequently the least important decision.

Licence and training

In the UK, compulsory basic training comes first, which allows riding a restricted machine on L plates. Full licence categories — A1, A2 and A — are tied to age and engine power, with a progressive access route between them.

Check which category your age and licence allow before buying anything, since riding an over-powered machine invalidates insurance entirely.

Start smaller than you want

A lighter, less powerful bike is easier to learn on, cheaper to insure, cheaper to drop and holds its value. Most experienced riders will tell you they wish they had started smaller.

Seat height matters more than power for confidence. Being able to get both feet down changes how a new rider feels at junctions.

Gear is not optional

A helmet meeting the relevant standard, replaced after any impact and roughly every five years. Armoured jacket and trousers, gloves and proper boots covering the ankle.

Most motorcycle injuries involve the legs and feet, which is exactly where people economise. Buy the gear before the accessories.

Checking a used bike

Service history, chain and sprocket wear, tyre age and condition, fork seals, brake discs and pads, and signs of a drop — scuffed bar ends, levers and exhaust. Check the frame and engine numbers against the documents.

Get an HPI-style check for outstanding finance and theft, and ride it rather than only starting it.

Running costs

Insurance, gear, training, chain, tyres and servicing add up considerably. Tyres wear much faster than on a car.

Insurance and security

Get quotes before buying, since premiums vary enormously by model, age and postcode, and a bike that looks affordable can be uninsurable for a new rider.

Motorcycles are stolen quickly. A rated chain and ground anchor, a disc lock, a cover and a tracker each add time and deterrence.

Riding through winter

Salt destroys bikes. Rinse after salty roads, keep the chain lubricated and protect exposed metal, or lay the bike up properly with a trickle charger.

Where to buy

A dealer gives you consumer rights, a warranty and usually a prepared bike. A private sale is cheaper and sold as seen, so take someone experienced with you and never hand over money before seeing the documents.

Check the V5C registration document is in the seller's name at the address you are visiting.

Take a test ride wherever the seller allows it, with insurance arranged in advance.

Training beyond the basics

Advanced rider courses measurably reduce risk and frequently reduce insurance premiums too.

WHERE TO BUY

Ready to shop Webbs Motorcycles? Use the link below to visit the official store.

→ Shop Webbs Motorcycles — official site

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