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a heavyweight cruiser may not be the best for o-road riding; a
small dual-sport bike might not have the luggage capacity needed
for a multiple-day tour; a sport bike is not as comfortable for
passengers as a sidecar, for instance.
Try sitting on the motorcycle you plan on purchasing, and ask
yourself the following questions:
• Can you comfortably reach all the controls?
• Is the size, weight, and power suitable for your comfort and
experience level?
• Does the style suit your needs?
New riders should start out on bikes that are smaller and lighter in
weight because they can be easier to control, less intimidating, and
easier to maneuver.
Consider how you want to use your bike: will you use it for
recreation, touring, cruising around town, or commuting?
Motorcycles come in designs and styles suited for many dierent
uses. Whether a dual-sport, cruiser, standard, sport bike, trike, or
sidecar equipped motorcycle — choosing a bike designed for your
preferred type of riding and skill level can decrease your risk, and
increase your enjoyment of the road.
Getting to Know Your Motorcycle
Once you have brought your motorcycle home, or even if you are
borrowing one, spend some time getting to know it. Become familiar
with the controls and how to use them; using unfamiliar controls can
be a big distraction, and distracted riding can lead to a crash.
Each two or three-wheeled motorcycle has its own unique handling
personality. Be especially careful on any motorcycle that is
unfamiliar to you, no matter how experienced you are.
Find an empty, safe area in which to practice locating and using
your controls. Practice slow speed maneuvers, turns, stops, and
swerves. Take an advanced training course to increase your skills
and familiarity with your new bike.
Checking Your Motorcycle
The primary source of information about your bike, including
specications, operation, and suggested maintenance is in