Buying your first motorbike is a big deal. It means you’ll soon be able to hit the open road and get that sense of freedom that many bikers enjoy. Motorbikes can be a great way to tour around and explore and represent an entire lifestyle, not just a mode of transportation. But before you rush in and purchase the first motorbike that catches your eye, here are five frugal tips that you’ll want to be aware of. These can help ensure you save money and get the best deal possible.

Look at Used Motorbikes

The first tip is to look at pre-owned motorbikes. A used motorbike is always going to be cheaper than a new one, but it does have some cons as well. It may not have any warranty left, and the mileage can be high. It may have visible signs of wear and tear, and you don’t necessarily know what the condition is in terms of mechanics. You certainly don’t want to end up with a lemon, so you need to proceed with caution. If you are purchasing a pre-owned bike, also be prepared to haggle with the seller. There is no reason why you have to pay the asking price, and haggling is pretty much a given.

Choose a Bike That Is Cost-Effective to Maintain

There is more than just the purchase price to consider; what about the cost of repairs and maintenance? Choose a mainstream model, which makes parts and services more accessible and more reasonably priced.

Make Sure You Get a Good Deal on Motorbike Insurance

Then there is the insurance, which is a necessity, but it doesn’t mean there isn’t some wiggle room where the budget is concerned. Experts suggest you shop around and get comparison motorbike insurance quotes, so you’re assured of the best deal possible. There’s no need to downgrade the coverage; instead, it’s smart to check out the various providers and what they are offering.

Look at Models with a Smaller Engine

Did you know that by choosing a model with a smaller engine, you will save a significant amount of money? The cost of the bike will be less, as will insurance and repairs. Because smaller engines are used on small bikes, it tends to be a safer route to go for newbies such as yourself. You can work your way up to the larger, more impressive bikes.

Don’t Be Swayed by the Bells and Whistles

The final tip is not to be swayed by the extras, which are the unnecessary bells and whistles. Sure, they may seem fun and even necessary, but each of these features will cause the price of the bike to increase. Not only that, but it’s more things that can go wrong and need to be repaired, and more things to learn about the bike. Your first motorbike will be a bit of a learning experience, so take it slow and easy.

These tips will help you to save money on your first motorbike and also help you to narrow down your options to ensure you get the right bike for your needs and skill level.

The post 5 Frugal Tips to Use When Buying Your First Motorbike first appeared on Daily Car News and Reviews | AutomobileGator.