Are you looking to get on the road on two wheels but don’t know where to start? We’ve put together a guide to help you choose that first bike and make your road to freedom as stress free as possible!
So what makes a good learner or “LAMS” Motorcycle? Due to the implementation of the LAMS (Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme) there has been an explosion of motorcycles designed for first time riders in the market! As a result, there are so many options for a first bike it might be a bit difficult on deciding where even to start!
The First Step!
The first step we think is to narrow down what category of bike you want. This could be suited to style or needs. Do you want something to tear up the twisties, take off road too now and then or simply for cruising and comfort? There’s something for Learner’s in every category in motorcycles now, so determining what you want the bike for is a good first step!!
What Next?
The next most important part for us is seat height and the style of the bike. Once you’ve narrowed down which style/s of motorcycle/s you like, it’s a good idea to head down to your local bike stores and sit on a few of your choices. If this isn’t possible to you, we recommend going to see a few bikes up for sale privately, although be sure not to waste anyone’s time!
Every bike has its good points and bad. Sometimes you can fall in love with a bike but sit on it and it just doesn’t have that wow factor. You’ll be really surprised by this if you haven’t sat on a few bikes! There are other limitations to consider, such as the size of the bike in comparison to your height. Generally speaking, the taller and heavier the bike, the harder it will be for a beginner to learn on however, this also depends on your height and weight/strength.
Can I Afford It?
It’s sooooo easy to overspend on your first motorcycle purchase! It’s such an exciting time and you just want to stretch that little further to get that better/newer/shinier bike… but can you really afford it?
You really need to make a complete budget including the cost of your Helmet, Jacket/Pants, Gloves, Boots and potentially wet weather gear. We really recommend going to your local motorcycle accessories store to try some helmets on. As with the bikes, you might really love a certain helmet but after trying a few on, realise that one isn’t really the comfiest or best styling for you! At Ironhorse Motorsports, we really can’t stress enough how important it is to be prepared for the worst. Hopefully you’ll never need it, but if you do, you’ll have it there. We always go by the motto “Dress for the slide, not for the ride”. As such, it’s really important to invest time and money into buying comfy, practical safety gear! That’s why we’ve teamed up with Two Wheel Appeal to put together a package to help Learner Riders bring those costs down for the initial set up!
(If you are a learner or going for your learner licence, an entry into our LAMS Motorcycle draw will secure you 50% off store-wide at Two Wheel Appeal if you received your learner licence within the last 6 months)
What Else to Consider?
Other than the bike and your safety gear, you’ve got security and protection. Unfortunately, there are some people in this world that think it’s totally acceptable to take your bike… and never give it back! Security of your ride is essential and at a minimum, insurance should be purchased. We recommend Full Comprehensive insurance – this will cover theft and any damages to the bike (we’ve all accidentally dropped a bike!) but as a minimum, third party and theft should be considered. Depending on where you live, you may also consider a disc lock or chain. Here in SEQ, we’re witnessing more and more peoples pride and joy be taken from them. A disc lock or chain through the wheel makes it a lot harder to steal and can be purchased for a relatively small fee! As for protection, other than your insurance, you might consider purchasing a cover for your motorcycle, especially if it will be kept outside or even inside with a bit of time between rides (there’s nothing more annoying than going for a ride and your bikes covered in dust :P)
Our Picks!!
Sports Bike
Yamaha R7
Why: Being a fresh release for 2022 and built from the ground up for a full race-bike feel, the Yamaha R7 is by far the hottest Sports Bike in the learner market right now. It has so many features similar to the R1 including ride position, the sporty ducktail and even the dash has the same feel!! Of course, you could win one for as little as $15 in our giveaway draw HERE!
Key Features: Proven engine, capable of more power after RE period, KYB Sports Suspension, Narrow, Lightweight Chassis, Brembo Radial Brake Master Cylinder, Comfort -Focused Racing-Inspired ride position.
Engine: 655cc Yamaha CP2 (Crossplane 2-cylinder) liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve
Output: 52hp (39kW) @ 8000RPM and 58Nm @ 4000RPM
Weight: 188kg (wet)
Seat Height: 835mm
Price: $13,999 Ride-Away
Naked Bike
Yamaha MT-07
Why: We really can’t go past this platform. Based on the same CP2 engine that the new Yamaha R7 is sporting, this bike is agile, responsive, comfortable and looks awesome all in one package!
Key Features: Proven engine, Can be de-restricted and has potential after RE period, Comfortable riding position, Plenty of aftermarket parts and accessories
Engine: 655cc Yamaha CP2 (Crossplane 2-cylinder) liquid-cooled, 4-strok
e, DOHC, 4-valve
Output: 52hp (39kW) @ 8000RPM and 58Nm @ 4000RPM
Weight: 184kg (wet)
Seat Height: 805mm
Price: $12,399 Ride-Away
Cruiser
Honda CMX 500
Why: We love the styling of the Honda! Match that with the same parallel-twin engine the CBR500R uses and it makes for an exciting all-round package.
Key Features: Great Styling, proven engine, comfortable "Cruiser' position, LED Lighting, Slipper Clutch
Engine: 471cc Liquid-Cooled Parallel-Twin
Output: 45.5hp (33.5kW) @ 8,500RPM and 44.6Nm @ 6000RPM
Weight: 191kg (wet)
Seat Height: 690mm
Price: $9,690 Ride-Away
