MOTOS

Sexta, 24 Fevereiro 2023 20:40 | Actualizado em Quarta, 24 Abril 2024 18:46

Try Before You Buy: Motorcycle Riders Test Different Models Before Purchasing ‘Dream Bike’

By Shawn Fechter, SVP of Brand Experience - EagleRider

For anyone who's ever seen someone riding down the highway on a motorcycle and thought ‘that looks fun!’, the next thoughts are most likely very daunting.

How do I learn to ride? How much is a motorcycle? Which bike is right for me? What would I even do with it after I buy one?

Well, getting in the saddle is a lot easier than you might think! A smart way to explore motorcycle ownership and to know for sure which bike will make you the happiest, is through renting. Not to mention, it’s also a fantastic way to experience adventure and free yourself from the confines of everyday life.

The road before you rent
Deciding to learn how to ride a motorcycle is an exciting step toward a thrilling new adventure, and you will be eager to start. However, there are a few things you should do before you rent a motorcycle.

Find a training course – You’re not required to take a motorcycle training course, but you will need a license to rent. These classes can help familiarize you with the mechanics of riding, and often have a licensing study component. Some, such as the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Basic RiderCourse^SM, even have a licensing waiver for certain states. Additionally, some motorcycle dealerships or your state’s DMV might offer training courses.

Get your license – If you decide not to take a training course, you’ll need to study for, practice and get your license on your own. Be sure to connect with your local DMV to learn the requirements for licensure.

Gear up – Safety is a priority for motorcyclists, and that means getting the proper equipment to keep you secure on the road. This includes a correctly fitted helmet, jacket, boots or other over-ankle foot covering and riding gloves. There are other options, but these are the basics. Remember to wear sturdy pants such as quality jeans or riding pants.

Ride before you buy
Once you have your license, it could be tempting to purchase a motorcycle right away. After all, you’re finally ready to hit the road! But slow your roll and consider renting first. This will allow you to not only test different bikes for longer periods of time, but also to hone your riding skills, perhaps allowing you to purchase a more advanced bike from the get-go.  In the long run, this phased approach to motorcycle ownership will save you money because it will ensure you make the smartest investment possible.

Thanks to EagleRider, renting is much easier than it seems. With no commitment to buy, all one needs is a motorcycle license to rent from a huge selection of motorcycles from more than 150 locations worldwide. This empowers aspiring riders to try out the experience of riding entry-level bikes and see if they're comfortable moving forward to more high-powered models. If so, they can try another model and move their way up the motorcycle food chain.

A possible progression could start with lighter weight models and go up to heavier/more powerful options. For instance:

Yamaha R3 – Lighter weight which makes it easier to maneuver and brake

Yamaha XSR900 – This cruiser will kick it up a notch with a bit more power

Triumph Bonneville T100 or Scrambler – Responsive for more challenging, scenic roads and hairpins

Mid-Size Harley-Davidson (Softail, Street Glide or Road Glide) – More weight and power, but not at expert level yet

BMW R 1250 GS – Lots of power and torque for incredible speed and performance

With EagleRider's Club EagleRider membership program, customers can return to test a variety of motorcycles often while experiencing major savings and even join guided tours through America's most inspiring landscapes and iconic roadways. This is also a good way to test bikes for longer adventures like new motorcyclist, Chloe, did for her first big ride. If you’re going to spend entire days in the saddle of your new bike on longer road trips or tours, you’ll want to make sure you love the comfort and handling before purchase.

Renting happiness
Riding a motorcycle is a completely freeing experience, and one that might seem overwhelming to try. However, once you have your license and full gear, it’s just a matter of finding the right bike for you. Renting with EagleRider’s Club Membership means that novice riders can familiarize themselves with different motorcycles and become more experienced on the road before purchase. Renting takes the uncertainty out of ownership and ensures that you buy a motorcycle that you love.

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About EagleRider
EagleRider pioneered the motorcycle rental and tour business in 1992. Since then, the brand has become synonymous with motorcycle adventure worldwide. The company offers multi-brand rentals, guided and self-guided tours, and apparel as it continues to expand its reach globally. Locked storage, free parking, and free use of DOT-approved helmets are offered at most North American locations. EagleRider is the exclusive U.S. provider of rentals and tours for Harley-Davidson Motor Company.

About Club EagleRider

Club EagleRider gives passionate riders the ability to experience the great motorcycle destinations of the world on the perfect model to fit their specific needs and riding style. Members can hop on a plane and spend days or weeks riding a bucket list destination, including exotic locations all over the globe. It is also a great way for new riders to rent smaller bikes and work their way up as their experience level and confidence grows before investing in the purchase of a their dream bike.