How to Choose the Right Used Harley-Davidson for Your First Ride

Perhaps one of the most iconic motorcycle brands, Harley-Davidson is often one of the go-to options for new buyers purchasing their first bike. With the long history of the brand, there are tons of different options available, which can be a little overwhelming for beginners. After all, it’s not just about the flashy looks or having all the extras. Choosing the right Harley to buy should be a careful decision to make sure it’s a good fit for the rider.

Know What You Prefer and How You Want to Ride

Why do you want a motorcycle? Not even a Harley specifically, but what are your goals for riding? Perhaps you want to have a better vehicle for commuting every day to save on gas prices. Maybe you want something to travel with, or you want to find something comfortable and fun to ride.

Harley has options for all of these, but what is perfect for one rider isn’t going to be a good option for someone else. It’s important to think of personal preferences and goals before looking closer at what’s for sale.

Use Your Preferences to Choose From Model Families

Model families include bikes that are similar to each other, whether that’s a bike that’s built for the highway or one that’s designed with comfort in mind. Choosing the right model family is crucial, as this helps to ensure the bike will be a good fit. Some of the model families to consider include the following.

• Softail – If you’re looking for a classic motorcycle with style, power, and everything else Harley-Davidson is known for, look at the Softail model family. These are the cruiser bikes, designed with comfort in mind. Whether you’re going down the highway or just want to be comfy on your commute, they can be a great choice.
• Sportster – Power is the focus for the Sportster model family. They may not be quite as comfortable for those longer rides, but they’re stylish, go fast, and have excellent handling and braking. If you’re looking for a more thrilling ride, look at the Sportsters.
• Touring – Motorcycles can be a fantastic option for long-distance riding, as they’re excellent on gas and can go just about anywhere. If you dream of travel, look into the touring model family. These bikes are ready to hold everything you need and provide the comfort you want, no matter how far you’re going.
• Trikes – If you’re looking for more cargo space or something a little bigger, Harley’s trike model family can be a great option, too. These have plenty of power, while still offering more cargo space and comfort. And, of course, they’re stylish, so you’ll love riding them.

What Engine Size is Right for Beginners?

Once you’ve got an idea of what model family might be right, the next question you may have is, how many cc is too much for a beginner? For beginners, it’s best to start with a lower cc, around 250cc to 300cc. These bikes tend to be lighter weight, so they’re easier to handle and have lower seat heights. They also have far more manageable power for someone who is just getting on a motorcycle for the first time.

If you’ve got experience riding, but haven’t bought your own motorcycle yet, a higher cc may be fine. Stick with around 500cc to 750cc bikes, as these can hold heavier weights and highway speeds easily, while still being easy to maneuver. Those who have more experience can look into the 750cc bikes, but these aren’t recommended for beginners because they can be a little harder to handle and are a lot more powerful.

It’s better to start with a smaller engine size to make sure it’s easier to control the power in the bike. Of course, with time and experience, it’s possible to upgrade to a bigger, more powerful engine. There’s no need to rush this, as it’s better to start small and learn before jumping all in with the most powerful bikes.

Is Buying New or Used Better for Beginners?

The question of whether to buy new or used often starts with thinking about the cost and availability of motorcycles for sale. New bikes are more expensive, but they can come with warranties, extras, and other benefits that aren’t available when buying used. Harley-Davidson regularly comes out with new models with exciting features.

Buying a used motorcycle, on the other hand, can help beginners save money on their first bike and allow them to get something amazing without having to spend too much. Many beginners will opt for a used bike as their first one to make sure they can get what they need without worrying as much about how much it’ll cost.

What to Look for When Buying Used

Buyers who want to opt for a used bike will want to make sure they know what to prioritize when shopping, especially if they’re a beginner. There are a few things that riders will want to make sure they consider before handing over the cash.

• The Bike’s History – When looking at used bikes, before making any decision, ask about the bike’s history. Find out if it’s been cared for properly, if it’s ever been dropped, if it’s been in a collision, and anything else that might have an impact on whether it’s a good buy. This is crucial for finding a good deal.
• Engine Size and Model Family – Look at both the engine size and model family, using the information here, to decide if it may be a good fit.
• Current Condition – Take a look at the current condition of the bike. If it has a lot of scratches or dents, it could be a sign that the bike has been damaged in the past and may not be a good option. Beginners may want to have an experienced mechanic help them with this step.
• How it Rides – It’s a good idea to take the bike on a test ride before buying to see how it handles and whether there are any potential issues. Beginners may want to have help from a more experienced rider so they don’t miss anything important during the test ride.

Are you ready to cruise off the lot on your new Harley? Start by thinking about what you need and using the tips here to find a bike that’s going to truly fit your lifestyle, riding style, and more. This way, you’ll love your new Harley, and you’ll be able to look forward to years of fun rides and adventure.