How do you choose one bike over all the other makes and models out there?
I was reading Brent Miller’s article V-Strom DL650: The First 1,000 Miles (download the pdf that’s linked from his blog entry), which is actually a very informative piece for anyone who is trying to narrow down their choices in the big wide world of motorcycling.
It’s normal to get very confused about what you want versus what a seller, dealer, your buddies, or your boyfriend, want in a bike. Brent made his decision after a year of research, test rides, and self-examination. Here’s an excerpt.
Everyone looks for information that helps them make a decision about buying the next motorcycle, or perhaps the first. Even though I have been motorcycling for more than 40 years, I did exactly the same. I started researching and reading rider/owner reviews, looking for information that would match my riding desires with the next motorcycle purchase. . . I started a self examination:
- What do I want in a motorcycle?
- What is important or a priority for my motorcycle purchase?
- Am I buying a motorcycle to impress others or declare a status in life?
- Would I rather ride or polish chrome?
- What kind of riding will I do?
- Where will I ride?
- How many miles will I ride each year?
- Will I be riding alone or two up with a passenger?
There’s a lot more involved: initial purchase price, cost of ownership (repairs, parts, and extras), and what a lot of people call “bang for the buck”—which is very subjective.
Read Brent Miller’s article V-Strom DL650: The First 1,000 Miles (download the pdf linked from his blog entry), for more words of wisdom.
Bob (aka klrrider) here and I would just like to say I have never found the perfect bike… I tend to lean to dirt riding but like to be able to ride on the road also. I prefer a dual sport machine and am riding a KLR 600 at present. Must say I like the KLX and the DRZ 400s. Most likely my next ride.