Once you have decided on style of motorcycle it is important to decide whether you wish to purchase a new or used motorcycle. One should be careful when making such a decision as it affects both your finances and affection to the motorcycle you purchase from the dealership. It is not advisable to make a rush-decision towards buying a new motorcycle. One should consider all the available options before deciding on whether to buy a new one or acquire a used motorcycle. It is common for a purchaser of a new motorcycle to lose their attachment to that specific motorcycle after a brief period and suffer some financial losses when selling it for their preferred choice.
For your first motorcycle, I would recommend – and it is controversial – it is best to get something cheap, used, and reliable. You should now know which brands can be counted on, with names like Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Triumph, Ducati and BMW probably well integrated into your vocabulary by now. A first motorcycle is not just for riding, it is for learning how to really understand and experience two wheels in a safe manner.
The second-hand LAMS motorcycle market is quite inflated at present due to a higher demand for LAMS approved motorcycles, so it is common to pay $2-$3K over normal market price. However new motorcycle prices have not suffered the same inflation and come with a 2- or 3-year warranty. So sometimes if you have the budget and are a bit more confident it is not a terrible thing to look at new.
Link to Learner Approved Motorcycle list – Learner approved motorcycles (LAM Scheme) | Transport and motoring | Queensland Government (www.qld.gov.au)
Next article: “How much should I spend on my first motorcycle” – HOW MUCH SHOULD I SPEND ON MY FIRST MOTORCYCLE – Motorcycle Rider Training Australia
