by Joe Symmes

Created on: October 25, 2008

The ultimate in performance and control, you are one with the machine. With nothing but the wind and open road ahead, the feeling of limitless freedom abounds. The rush of acceleration and smooth lean of the turns reminds you that there is no other feeling on earth like riding a motorcycle. For the slightly less romantic, there is no denying the relatively low purchase price, fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and ease of parking a motorcycle. You can even stay relatively comfortable with modern riding gear.

So you are sold on the idea of motorcycling. Your first step should be to take a beginner rider course to learn how to ride safely. In many areas, completing a course such as this will allow you to validate the riding portion of the DMV motorcycle license test and may even qualify you for an insurance discount.

The next step is to make sure you select the right bike. Choosing a motorcycle that fits you and your intended style of riding can make all the difference between a new lifelong passion, and a several thousand dollar mistake. Cruisers, sport bikes, dual sports, touring bikes, the list goes on. Today there are more classes of motorcycles than ever before. Bikes have become more specialized as manufacturers scramble to fill every niche of the growing market for motorcycles.

One of the most important considerations no matter what kind of motorcycle you're interested in is to make sure it will fit you. Excessive power and weight should be avoided. Try to steer clear of bikes with so much horsepower that they make it difficult to learn on. Generally a beginner should search for a motorcycle under 600cc's. Cubic centimeters are a measure of engine displacement and a rough indication of how much power the engine produces.

The weight of the motorcycle can make a big difference as to how comfortable you feel with the bike, the lighter the better when it comes to learning to ride. Also, if you are "inseam challenged" then pay careful attention to seat height to avoid ending up with a motorcycle that is so tall that it's difficult to get your feet firmly planted on the ground.

With so many types of motorcycles to choose from, where do you begin? Answering a few basic questions first can make sorting through the myriad if choices can be much easier. What type of riding do you plan to do? If you like to cruise gently along rural, scenic drives, then a cruiser would best serve your needs. If you like going fast and value precise handling over comfort, then a sport

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