Probably the most common mistake that new women riders make is choosing a motorcycle that’s way too large for them. The best advice that I can share when it comes to choosing your first motorcycle is to base your decision on “versatility” and “comfort”. Truthfully, I really didn’t discover what I needed in a motorcycle until after I started learning to ride.
I was certain that I wanted to purchase a Can Am Spyder but was convinced otherwise based on the feedback received from friends who rode traditional two-wheel bikes. So, I purchased a new Kawasaki Vulcan Classic 900 as my first bike prior to learning to ride. That was a huge mistake for me because I sucked miserably at learning to a ride two-wheel bike and it was way too many engine CCs. Plus, I just didn’t like the sensation of riding on a two-wheel motorcycle at 53 years old because I was concerned about falling and breaking bones that would take longer to heal at my age.
After failing my 1st Motorcycle Safety Basic Rider Course by dropping the bike and breaking a toe, I quickly realized that my intuition to purchase a three-wheel motorcycle was indeed correct. I sold the Kawasaki and purchased a Can Am Spyder RS SE5. I signed up for the Can Am Spyder Three Wheel Rider Course and l-o-v-e-d the riding experience!!! My Can Am Spyder is the Christmas gift that just keeps on giving!
However, I must point out that the Can Am Spyder steers the same as a car whereas the two-wheel motorcycle doesn’t follow its front wheels around a corner like a car does. Counter steering is the only way a two-wheel bike will go around a corner. Also, there are three basic types of motorcycles: (1) street, (2) dual purpose, and (3) off-highway.
- STREET MOTORCYCLES (designed for use on public streets)
- Standard
- Cruiser
- Sport
- Touring
- Scooter
- DUAL-PURPOSE MOTORCYCLES (designed for both street or off-highway riding)
- OFF-HIGHWAY MOTORCYCLES (designed for off-highway trails; not street-legal)
- Enduro
- Motocross
- Trials
Depending on your interests, a good idea is to get as versatile a motorcycle as possible for your first bike. Some other things that are important to consider before making a final decision are the following:
- Deciding which type of motorcycle meets your needs
- Why a smaller bike may be a good choice
- New bike or used bike?
- The hidden costs of motorcycling
I hope this information is helpful to moms who are considering purchasing their first motorcycle!
Safe Riding,
Lolo
Motorcycle Riding Moms, LLC