Joining the motorcycle community and buying your first bike is an exciting step. Your choice of the right model greatly impacts how easily you can handle it and how much enjoyment it will bring over time. Choosing incorrectly might leave you with a bike that is either too powerful and hard to handle or, conversely, one that’s underpowered for city traffic and becomes boring after just a month.
Why street motorcycles are the right choice
Street motorcycles, also known as "standard" or "classic," are ideal if you're buying a bike to travel on public roads, take short trips, or venture onto light off-road paths. They feature compact sizes, low seats, and wide handlebars, providing sufficient maneuverability and control for city riding. These models are adapted for frequent stops and starts and low-speed movement, which are typical in urban settings.
They are easy to get used to and typically offer a smooth, manageable handling experience. Most classics lack plastic fairings, which is a benefit since any accidents may result in relatively inexpensive repairs.
Tips to consider when getting a street bike:
Don't chase engine power
Motorcycles vary significantly by engine size, with larger engines offering more power but requiring more skill to control. For beginners, models ranging from 200 to 400 cc are ideal, as they balance power and manageability for urban riding. Options with 1000 cc engines are suited for experienced riders, especially on public roads. We recommend gradually increasing the power of your ride and consider changing your bike once each season. This approach is well-accepted in the biking community, unlike in the car market, where frequent changes might seem suspicious.
For city traffic, avoid bikes under 200 cc; they're easy to handle but lack the power needed to flow with traffic without causing disruptions. Popular models in this ideal range include the Sharmax Torig Bike GL 400, the Sharmax RST 200 Ultra, and the Sharmax Road Bike RR 250.
Choose a lightweight model
The heavier the bike, the more challenging it is to balance – especially when maneuvering or stopping at traffic lights. For first-timers, handling a heavy motorcycle can be daunting. A lightweight bike forgives more mistakes; for instance, if you lean too low at a stoplight, it's still possible to correct with some effort.
For those new to motorcycling, opting for a bike that weighs up to 200 kg is advisable. Models like the Sharmax RST 250, which weighs just 160 kg, and the Sharmax Street Bike 150 Ultra at a mere 114 kg are excellent choices. These bikes not only offer easier control but also boost confidence in handling, making them perfect for beginners.
Select the right fit and comfortable seating
You should feel comfortable in the saddle; otherwise, you won't be able to control the vehicle confidently and safely. The right fit depends on a combination of the bike’s characteristics and your own physical dimensions since motorcycles usually don’t offer adjustable controls. Important factors include the seat height, bike width, and handlebar position. Beginners should ensure they can reach the ground with both feet at the same time – this secures stability during stops and at pedestrian speeds.
Most motorcycles cater to average dimensions; however, if you're taller than 190 cm (about 6'3") or shorter than 160 cm (about 5'3"), finding a suitable model can be tough. Custom modifications or pre-modified bikes may be necessary. For example, the Sharmax RR 551 Ultra has a seat height of 735 mm, suitable for various rider heights.
Opt for models with ABS
The anti-lock braking system (ABS) prevents the wheels from locking up during braking. This is crucial for bikers— if the wheels lock, a beginner motorcyclist could fall. To ensure safer riding on your street motorcycle, we recommend choosing a model with ABS and verifying its proper function. The most reliable way to do this is at a motorcycle service center, using a specialized lift.
Many leading motorcycle manufacturers now equip their models with ABS for enhanced safety. For instance, Sharmax offers ABS on RR 301 Ultra and RST 422 Ultra, ensuring beginner-friendly safety features across their road bike lineup. Each brand prioritizes rider safety through advanced braking technology.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, when choosing your first street motorcycle, it’s advisable to start with models equipped with 200-400 cc engines. Avoid overly powerful bikes unless you have the necessary skills, and be cautious with underpowered models that can prove inconvenient in urban traffic. Ensure the bike is not too heavy, fits you comfortably, and ideally, is equipped with safety features like ABS.