A Guide To Buying Your Second Motorcycle

Getting your second motorcycle is different than getting your first. By the second time around, you have much more insight and experience. Those "beginner's guide to buying a motorcycle" articles tend to discuss what you already know. You need advice tailored to someone in your shoes, which is why we created the following guide to buying your second motorcycle.

Below you will find tips on finding that perfect model when you've got a few years of riding under your belt. If you have any questions or want to shop motorcycles for sale, visit Bartels' Harley-Davidson. Our dealership is located in Marina Del Rey, California, and we also serve those in Malibu and Santa Monica.

Take Advantage Of Your New Insight

New riders make a motorcycle purchase without much knowledge of what their riding lifestyle will be. It's the inevitable aspect of buying your first motorcycle. For example, you may plan on road trips and get a model tailored for long-distance rides. But you end up sticking to short cruises around the city. Many first-time buyers also pay extra for features they never use or pass on features they later want. It's tough to hit a bull's eye the first time around.

When you are buying your second motorcycle, the situation is different. You've spent time on the road and can more accurately gauge what you truly need. You've crafted a motorcycle lifestyle and can now more easily pick the model to match. Use this newfound knowledge to better articulate what you need from your second motorcycle.

Upgrade To Your New Skillset

With the first motorcycle purchase, the priority is getting a model that will make learning to ride easier. The focus tends to be on lower power potential, a lightweight and smaller frame, and plenty of easy handling features. All of these perks are great for beginners, but can hold back more experienced riders.

Now that you have strengthened your skills, you are ready to upgrade. Think about the power potential you can safely handle, then shop motorcycles that offer it. More experienced riders can also benefit from a heavier motorcycle. These models are harder to control, but they offer improved stability (which is especially helpful on more difficult routes).

Decide Whether To Replace Or Add

When you buy your second bike, there are two approaches: replace your current motorcycle or add the new motorcycle to your growing collection. The approach will affect the models and features you consider.

Replacing

Some people choose to replace their starter motorcycle. They wouldn't ride it much anyways, so it would be collecting dust in the garage. It's a better financial decision to sell it and use the money to invest in the next motorcycle.

For this approach, focus on versatile motorcycles. After all, you'll only have one model to meet all your needs. Look at general purpose models that can handle a broad range of adventures. You may want to invest in extra features or aftermarket parts that boost the model's versatility even more.

Adding

Other riders want to keep their current bike while investing in a second motorcycle. Here, the idea is to own two different styles of motorcycles to suit the different styles of riding.

For this approach, look for models that can offer what your current model lacks. For example, maybe your current motorcycle can only go on paved roads, so you get a dirt bike for nature adventures. Try to avoid overlap so that you can maximize your fun with the different models.

Ready to shop motorcycles for sale? Check out the selection at Bartels' Harley-Davidson. If you need any assistance, our friendly staff is happy to offer model suggestions or answer any questions. Explore our inventory online or stop by our dealership in Marina Del Rey, California. We also proudly serve those in Santa Monica and Malibu, California.