Buying Your First Motorcycle? 6 Things You Must Know and Do
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A lot of Filipinos are taking advantage of motorcycles as a form of transportation due to its capability to travel faster compared to riding public vehicles and even driving their own cars.
Motorcycles are probably the best way to travel from home to work in the country if you’re the type of person looking for a quick and exciting way of transport.
Motorcycles are way smaller than other vehicles, and can go easy on any road. It gives a perfect ride to specific traffic conditions in the metro, but remember, looming dangers of riding it are always present. It requires skill, mental engagement, and risk management, so better prepare yourself before riding one.
If you think having a motorcycle can merit your lifestyle in the long run, consider buying your first motorbike as a good start. Below are the things you must know and do.
- Know Your Budget
This must be on top of your mind when thinking of getting your own motorcycle. Yes, it is affordable and doesn’t cost as much as other cars because it is compact in nature—unless you want premium motorbikes. Then again, knowing how much you’ll be investing in it is favorable to your wallet.
Do your research and canvas for local dealers that offer flexible payment terms to find the best choice that fits your budget.
- Get an Insurance
Be smart upon buying your first motorcycle and get insurance to protect you while driving. Aside from that fact that it is more prone to road accidents, there are other reasons you need a motorcycle insurance:
- Motorcycles are easier to steal than cars and more susceptible to thefts.
- Motorcycles are vulnerable to greater damages in an accident.
- You need to pay-off other costs such as towing services and medical expenses aside from motorcycle damages.
- Know the Right Equipment and Maintenance
Just like cars, owning a motorbike takes a lot of time to prepare, and getting the right equipment should be one of your priorities before riding it. Get the perfect tire, invest in headlight and accessories, and use durable chains that are capable of any riding conditions.
Keep in mind that maintenance is always the key in getting the best experience with your bike. Depending on how hard you ride it, tire and chain replacement, valve adjustments, and oil changes should be done upon noticing unusual sounds and unstable ride.
- Gear Yourself Up
You may think that a helmet is the only equipment you need when riding a bike. But, if you value your safety, you should invest in a motor jacket, boots, gloves, and dedicated eyewear.
These gears serve as your added protection from accidents. Your rain suit must also be with you since the Philippines has a very unpredictable weather.
- Keep in Mind the Traffic Rules and Regulation
Before you ride, bear in mind that the Philippines has certain rules and regulations for motor riders. Be a responsible rider and drive according to the law.
Here are the important notes from the Land Transportation Office Administrative Order 2008-13 “Rules and Regulations for the Use and Operation of Motorcycles on Highways.”
- On Section VIII – Motorcycles or scooters shall be equipped with required accessories such as headlight, tail light, signal light, brake light, side mirror, and horn. The driver/rider shall anytime of the day switch on the headlight of the motorcycle or scooter while it is being operated on the highway.
- On Section XI – Wearing of flip-flops (tinsels) or slippers is now prohibited, For failure of rider and/or back rider to wear a helmet, a fine of One Thousand Five Hundred Pesos (P1,500.00) with accessory penalty of driver/rider attending a seminar on traffic safety management to be conducted by the LTO.
The Philippine government has also pushed Republic Act No. 10666 also known as Children’s Safety on Motorcycles Act of 2015. This law safeguards the welfare of children aboard motorcycles.
- Get the Right Motorbike that Suits Your Needs
Just like any other vehicles, motorcycles have different types as well to better cater to the needs of its riders and passengers.
Here are the five kinds of motorbikes that you can choose from.
- Cruisers
Harley Davidson Cruiser
(Source: Just Bikes)
Cruisers are the laidback kind of motorbike. It typically has low seats, long wheelbases, and large engines. This is perfect for riders who want to go on a smooth ride.
- Sports bikes
Ducati Sports Bike
(Source: Total Motorcycle)
Sports bikes are built for speed and acceleration. First-time buyers must be careful if opting for this type of motorcycle because it has a powerful engine, sharp handling, and aerodynamic fairings that might be not suitable for newbies.
- Touring motorcycles
Suzuki Touring Motorbike
(Source: Total Motorcycle)
Long distance travels are perfect with touring motorcycles. It is built for a comfortable ride and comes in with large windscreens, generous luggage capacity, and plush seats.
As a first-time rider, this will surely give you an incredible riding experience. However, it might not be a perfect choice since it comes with a hefty price.
- Scooters
Kawasaki Scooter
(Source: Asphalt and Rubber)
First-time riders usually choose this motorbike because it is much smaller and has a less powerful engine. Scooters are more affordable than bigger bikes. Insurance is also cheaper for this type of bike.
- Standard motorcycles
Suzuki Standard Motorcycle
(Source: Suzuki)
Standard motorbikes are surely perfect for first-time riders. It is usually considered as the best bike for beginners because it can be used to any ride.
You may invest in a cheaper one as a beginner, and decide to pawn your motorcycle after some time to buy a premium one. PawnHero—the first online pawnshop in the Philippines is unlike your ordinary pawnshop. From the usual jewelry and gadgets offered as collateral, PawnHero accepts motorcycles, musical instruments, office equipment, and many more.
Again, buying your first motorcycle is a tricky task to do in the beginning, but studying what you need to know and researching what you have to do should make things easier.
