The main types
- Naked or standard: upright and versatile, a good all-rounder for city and country roads.
- Sport: a forward-leaning position, high performance and sharp handling. Less comfortable on long trips.
- Cruiser: low seat, relaxed position and a laid-back character.
- Touring: comfort, luggage and wind protection for long distances.
- Adventure: tall suspension and an upright position, for mixed asphalt and light off-road.
- Dual-sport and enduro: lighter bikes built mainly for dirt.
- Scooter: easy to ride and practical for the city.
Questions to ask yourself
- Where will I ride most: in the city, on the highway, on tracks?
- Will I ride alone or with a passenger, and do I need luggage space?
- Can I put my feet down securely? Seat height and weight matter, especially for a new rider.
- What is my budget, including insurance, gear and running costs?
Engine size and licence
Your licence category may limit the engine power you can ride. A modest bike is usually easier to learn on and cheaper to run.
Test before you buy
Sit on several bikes and take a test ride if you can. Comfort and confidence matter more than the specification sheet. See choosing your first motorcycle and buying a used motorcycle.
Be honest about your experience. A more powerful bike is not a better first bike.