How to Buy a Motorcycle: A Guide to New and Used Bikes
Whether you're buying your first motorcycle or you're an experienced rider, you'll need to set a budget, find a motorcycle that fits your riding style and choose between new and used options.
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What motorcycle should I get?
Before you buy a bike, you need to decide which type of motorcycle you're interested in. To figure out what's right for you, consider how you plan to use your motorcycle, your experience level as a rider and where you plan to use the bike.
Guide to different motorcycle styles
Standard
Standard motorcycles are great general-purpose bikes. Also called naked bikes, they're characterized by their upright riding position and lack of accessories like
fairings
and saddlebags.
Popular models: Honda Nighthawk and Suzuki SV650
Cruiser
Cruisers typically have a relaxed, upright riding position; soft, comfortable suspension and a V-twin engine. These bikes have a high average weight, usually exceeding 500 pounds, making them difficult to handle for small or new riders.
Popular models: Harley-Davidson Sportster and Yamaha V Star
Touring
Touring bikes are built for long rides and typically come fully loaded with fairings to make the bike more aerodynamic, saddlebags to hold luggage and large fuel tanks.
Popular models: Honda Gold Wing and BMW R1200GS
Sport
Sport or street bikes are built for speed and performance. These motorcycles typically have large, plastic fairings to improve aerodynamics and a forward-leaning riding position.
Popular models: Kawasaki Ninja and Honda CBR
Dual-sport
Dual-sport bikes are typically lightweight, with high-travel suspension to improve stability and off-road tires. Because of their tall seat height, shorter riders may have difficulty finding a dual-sport bike that fits them.
Popular models: Suzuki DR-Z400S and Kawasaki KLR650
Engine size
Once you decide on a motorcycle style and model, you should consider which engine size fits your riding style and experience level. Many bike models come in a variety of sizes. For example, the Kawasaki Ninja has been available with engine sizes ranging from 250cc up to 1,400cc over the years.
Motorcycles with smaller engines — in the 250cc to 500cc range — are great for beginners.
These motorcycles are typically less expensive to insure than more powerful bikes, which can help you save money in the long term. New riders may also find it easier to handle these bikes because of their light weight and manageable power.
What is the best first motorcycle for a beginner?
The best motorcycle to start with depends on the style of the bike and engine size you're looking for. It's also important to know how the bike feels to ride.
For example, riders who want a new standard-style bike should consider the Kawasaki Z400, while those looking for a new sport bike might prefer a Kawasaki Ninja 400.
We recommend you test several motorcycles when shopping for bikes to get a feel for which is best for you.
New motorcycles
Used motorcycles
Best new motorcycles for beginners
Style | Motorcycle |
MSRP
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Kawasaki Z400 | $5,399 |
| Cruiser | Yamaha V Star 250 | $4,699 |
| Touring | Yamaha FJR1300ES | $18,299 |
| Sport | Kawasaki Ninja 400 | $5,29 |
| Dual-sport | Suzuki DR-Z400S | $6,999 |
New motorcycles
Best new motorcycles for beginners
Style | Motorcycle |
MSRP
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Kawasaki Z400 | $5,399 |
| Cruiser | Yamaha V Star 250 | $4,699 |
| Touring | Yamaha FJR1300ES | $18,299 |
| Sport | Kawasaki Ninja 400 | $5,29 |
| Dual-sport | Suzuki DR-Z400S | $6,999 |
Used motorcycles
Best used motorcycles for beginners
Style | Motorcycle |
Value
|
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 2013 Suzuki GW250 | $2,890 |
| Cruiser | 2012 Honda CMX250C Rebel | $3,005 |
| Touring | 2012 Kawasaki Concours | $6,975 |
| Sport | 2012 Kawasaki Ninja 250R | $3,525 |
| Dual-sport | 2012 Suzuki DR-Z400S | $5,150 |
How to buy a used motorcycle
Used motorcycles are typically the best value. They generally cost less than new bikes and don't lose their value as quickly. However, finding a good used bike that's both reliable and safe can be difficult, especially if you don't know anything about motorcycles.
Typically, you'll want to avoid motorcycles with any of the following:
- Salvage titles
- Excessive wear
- Difficulties starting, running or stopping
- High mileage
It's especially important to check out the bike's mileage, as it's very different from a car's mileage.
For example, 40,000 miles on a car is relatively low — especially for a used vehicle — but it is a lot for a motorcycle. As a general rule, you should look for motorcycles with fewer than 20,000 miles.
The biggest risk in buying a used bike is that something could go wrong mechanically. If you buy a bike with mechanical issues, you could end up spending a lot of money on repairs.
However, there are levels of risk. One way to lessen your risk is to buy mechanical breakdown insurance, which acts like an extended warranty for your motorcycle and covers the cost of certain repairs.
Buying a used motorcycle from a private seller
If you are buying a bike from a private seller — like someone who posted their motorcycle on Facebook Marketplace or eBay — you can take steps to ensure you ride away with a bike that's a good value.
Know what the motorcycle is worth.
Look up the bike's Kelly Blue Book value to help you determine whether the bike is priced well, even if you know nothing about motorcycles.
Get a VIN check.
If you're seriously considering purchasing a motorcycle, use its VIN to get a vehicle history report. This report includes important information about the bike, including its ownership history, whether it has a clean or salvage title and if it has been in any serious accidents.
This service usually costs around $25, so you should only order VIN checks for motorcycles that you are seriously considering purchasing.
Inspect the motorcycle.
Check for leaks, rust or any abnormal wear on the bike, especially to the running gear (frame, wheels, brakes and chain). Bring a flashlight so you can check in the gas tank and other hard-to-see areas.
Even if you know nothing about motorcycles, a thorough visual inspection can usually tell you a lot about whether a bike has been properly maintained. If anything looks wrong, ask the owner about it.
Unless you're an experienced mechanic, you should call a local motorcycle mechanic to set up a pre-purchase inspection. This typically costs around $100 to $200, and it could help you uncover problems, or at least provide peace of mind.
Ask questions.
When shopping for a used motorcycle, it's important to gather as much information as possible. You should ask the owner:
- Why they're selling the motorcycle
- How long they've had the bike
- If they have ever had any issues with the motorcycle
- If they have the title
- If the title is in their name
- Whether the bike has a salvage title
How to buy a motorcycle from a dealer
Find Cheap Motorcycle Insurance Quotes in Your Area
Motorcycle dealerships can be a good option for people looking to buy a new motorcycle or a used or certified pre-owned bike. Dealerships are especially useful if you're interested in a specific make and model and don't have time to search classified ads for a privately sold bike.
Once you've found the right bike for you, make sure to ask the salesperson for the out-the-door price, which includes taxes, registration and any dealer fees.
Dealerships can typically help you get low-interest financing, which gives you some flexibility in paying off your purchase. However, this option may not be available if you have bad credit.
Motorcycle warranties, which are often included with the purchase of a new bike from a dealership, are great for riders who aren't handy when it comes to fixing a bike.
Motorcycle warranties cover the cost of repairs your bike may need due to defective parts or other breakdowns. However, parts that should be replaced regularly — like tires, brakes, filters and lubricants — are typically not covered under motorcycle warranties.
How much does it cost to buy a motorcycle?
The cost of a motorcycle depends on the type of bike you choose and whether it's used or new.
You can typically get a used bike for as little as $1,000, but most used bikes cost between $3,000 and $6,000. New bikes start at around $3,000.
In addition to the cost of the motorcycle itself, there can be many extra costs associated with buying a motorcycle. These include the cost of insurance, riding gear and licensing fees.
Motorcycle insurance
Motorcycle insurance costs $60 per month, on average, for a full-coverage policy.
Find Cheap Motorcycle Insurance Quotes in Your Area
Motorcycle insurance is required in all states except Florida, so you'll need to buy a policy before you can legally ride. If you're buying a new motorcycle, the dealership will require you to show proof of insurance before you can drive it off the lot.
In addition, riders who finance their bike may be required by their lender to purchase a full-coverage policy. Full-coverage insurance includes comprehensive and collision coverage, which protects your bike against damage, regardless of whose fault it is.
The best way to find cheap motorcycle insurance is to compare quotes from multiple companies.
Riders can also save money by qualifying for discounts. Most companies offer discounts for taking a motorcycle safety course, installing an anti-theft device or anti-lock brakes and signing up for automatic payments.
If you're concerned about the cost of insurance, you should consider buying a bike with a smaller engine, as engine size has a big impact on your motorcycle insurance rates.
There are a number of other factors that determine how much your motorcycle insurance costs.
- Where you live
- Your driving history
- The age and style of your bike
Helmet and riding gear
Beginner riders should expect to pay between $400 and a few thousand dollars for riding gear.
Most states allow motorcycle owners to ride without a helmet if they're over 21 years old, but we recommend you wear one for your own safety.
Prices for new helmets approved by the Department of Transportation range from $100 to $600, and wearing one can protect you against injury or death if you're in an accident. In addition to a helmet, we recommend wearing a high-visibility motorcycle jacket, protective gloves and boots.
Motorcycle license or endorsement
The cost of a new motorcycle license or endorsement varies by state. It usually costs around $25.
Depending on the motorcycle license requirements in your state, you may be required to take a state-approved motorcycle safety course before you can become a licensed rider. These classes may cost between $200 and $300, and they teach the basics of how to ride.
Registration and title requirements
Registration and title costs vary depending on where you live, whether your bike is new or used and the weight of your ride. On average, you can expect to pay between $100 and $300 for a motorcycle title, registration and license plate.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I buy a motorcycle?
The best place to buy a new motorcycle is at a dealership, where you'll have the chance to check out the bike in person and possibly take it for a test drive. You can find used bikes online from places like Facebook Marketplace or Autotrader. First-time riders should also consider buying a used bike from a dealership. Dealerships often have certified pre-owned bikes or offer a warranty, so you won't have to worry about maintenance issues.
What is the best motorcycle for a beginner?
Standard motorcycles, also called naked bikes, are the best choice for beginners because they're good general-purpose bikes. The 2013 Suzuki GW250 is a great starter motorcycle for riders looking for a used bike, while the Kawasaki Z400 is a good choice for a new bike.
What CC is good for a beginner motorcycle?
Motorcycles with a 250cc to 500cc engine are the best choice for a beginner bike. The smaller engine makes them easier to handle, which is important for an entry-level bike. They're also cheaper to insure than motorcycles with a larger engine, making them a more affordable option for beginners.
How do I know which motorcycle is right for me?
The best motorcycle for you depends on how you plan to use your bike, your experience level and your budget. For example, standard bikes are a good choice for beginners, while touring motorcycles are the best fit for riders who take long road trips.
Methodology
To find the average cost of motorcycle insurance, we collected thousands of quotes from six top insurance companies. Rates are for a 45-year-old man with a full-coverage policy that includes comprehensive and collision coverage, along with liability limits that are higher than state required minimums.
Coverage | Limit |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury liability | $100,000 per person/$300,000 per accident |
| Property damage liability | $50,000 |
| Comprehensive and collision deductible | $500 |