Car Ownership 101: The Basics
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Car Ownership 101: The Basics

If you are like many people, you trust that your car will start and run when you need it to and that's about as far as your automotive knowledge goes. In that case, you are in the right place. The purpose of this site is to help people like you to understand the basic care, maintenance, and signs of needed repairs when it comes to your car. The pages on this blog are filled with car care information and tips to help you recognize when your car might need repair. Use the information here to better understand your car and to identify those times when you should probably call a mechanic.

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Car Ownership 101: The Basics

Buying Your First Motorcycle? 5 Things You Need To Know About

Salvador Flores

Driving on two wheels can be thrilling. If you are ready to purchase a motorcycle like a Harley Davidson, there are some things you need to know to prepare for this unique and awesome experience.

#1: Take a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Course

Before you start shopping around, sign up for a motorcycle safety foundation (MSF) course. It is like a driver's training course for motorcycles that will teach you how to stay safe on the road. In some states, you need to complete an MSF course to obtain a motorcycle endorsement on your license so that you can even test drive a motorcycle. Get this done before you start shopping for a bike so you have the skills and the endorsements to test drive the ones you are interested in.

#2: Be Careful With Power

It is tempting to think that bigger is better, but handling a big engine on a motorcycle is not an easy task if you are just getting started. It takes time and practice to handle a bike with more power, which is why it can be a smart idea to start with a small-to-medium bike.

This will allow you to get used to riding a motorcycle in various conditions. You can always trade up later as you get more skilled and experienced and can handle a more powerful engine.

#3: Check the Seat Height

When you purchase a motorcycle, make sure the height works for your body. You can't adjust the seat's height, so you need to get a ride that is the right height.

You should be able to plant both of your feet flat and firmly on the ground; you shouldn't be on your tip-toes. Being able to plant your feet firmly on the ground will make it easier for you to balance and handle your bike.

#4: Check the Weight

You also need to consider the weight of the bike. You need to be able to hold the bike up with your body. You need to be able to pick the bike up if it is lying on its side. Make sure that you can handle the weight of the bike. If it too much to handle, go for a lighter bike.

#5: Think About the Full Price

Finally, you need to make sure you think about the full price of purchasing a motorcycle. You need to think about both the price of the bike itself and the insurance cost.

You will legally need to carry liability coverage, which includes bodily injury liability and property damage liability. You should also consider adding comprehensive insurance, collision insurance, personal injury protection, and uninsured motorist coverage. That way, you are fully protected if you get into an accident.

When it comes to purchasing your first motorcycle, take an MSF course before you start shopping. Look for a bike with a smaller engine that is sized so that you can firmly plant your feet on the ground when riding the bike and whose weight you can handle. Be sure to budget for the monthly payments on the bike as well as the insurance.


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