How Much Does Buying a Motorcycle Cost?

Buying a motorcycle is a substantial investment, and the cost varies significantly depending on the age, style, and brand of motorcycle you want. No one factor determines how much a motorcycle costs, but here are a few things to keep in mind as you decide what motorcycle you want.

Average Motorcycle Price in the U.S.

According to numbers compiled by Statista, the average price of a motorcycle has hovered in the neighborhood of $12,000 in recent years, though that figure is rising. While these figures include everything from low-priced used motorcycles to top-of-the-line new models, you should prepare to spend about that much on your motorcycle, if not more.

What Affects the Price of a Motorcycle?

Some key factors that can affect the price of a motorcycle include:

• New vs. Used – Just like cars and other big-ticket items, used motorcycles generally cost less than new ones. However, the quality of a used motorcycle varies greatly depending on its mileage, how well the prior owner maintained it, and other factors. A used motorcycle might seem like a bargain, but you could face higher maintenance costs and more significant safety concerns.
• Type of Motorcycle – The style of a motorcycle often determines how it’s used and influences its price. For example, cruiser motorcycles for occasional weekend rides are generally less expensive, though some can be pricey if they have larger engines or other premium features. On the other hand, high-end sport bikes are usually more expensive because they have more powerful engines and use lighter, more expensive materials.
• Engine Size and Performance – Motorcycles with bigger, high-performance engines cost more than other models with less engine power. However, a smaller engine can still provide plenty of power and get you where you want to go, depending on where and how you want to ride your motorcycle.
• Brands – As you’d expect, premium brand motorcycles often cost more than budget-friendly brands. For example, you’ll likely pay more for a Harley-Davidson, BMW, or Ducati motorcycle than you would for a Honda, Kawasaki, or Yamaha. However, all motorcycle brands have cheaper and pricier models, so you can probably find a motorcycle from your brand of choice (if you care about the brand).
• Features and Technology – A bare-bones motorcycle with fewer comfort features will cost less than a custom ride. Likewise, advanced safety features like anti-lock brakes and traction control will add to a motorcycle’s cost.
• Location and Dealer Pricing – Local taxes can affect a motorcycle’s price depending on the dealer or seller’s location. Similarly, dealers often charge more than private sellers, but they also offer warranties and financing options that private sellers typically don’t.

Consider Styles of Motorcycles

Before you can determine which bike to buy, you’ll need to choose a style of bike. Motorcycles come in the following styles: 

• Standard: Offers a comfortable ride, neutral ergonomics, a shorter seat, and room for variations
• Cruiser: Includes a lower seat and comfortable riding experience for cruising around town
• Touring: Offers amenities for cross-country tips, including significant storage, easy ergonomics, and sizable fairings
• Sport bike: Optimizes speed and agility with a high seat and lightweight build
• Sport touring: Blends the characteristics of a sport and touring bike
• Dual sport: Includes a versatile build suitable for most terrains

You can always perform more research about each of these bike types to learn their specific builds and features. However, we recommend first considering how you plan to use your bike. Will you primarily take short rides around town, or are you planning cross-country road trips on your motorcycle? 

Once you narrow down the best type of motorcycle for your needs, you can begin searching for a bike within that style. 

Understand Engine Sizes

Motorcycles also come with various engine sizes, so you’ll want to consider the appropriate size for your riding habits. 

Typically, smaller engines are more cost-effective, as their bikes come with cheaper price tags, and they are more affordable to insure. However, small-engine bikes have less power and drive than large-engine ones. 

What to Spend Your Money on When Buying a Motorcycle

Depending on your budget, you can spend many thousands of dollars on a motorcycle. However, there are certain features you want to invest in, such as:

• Brakes – Your brakes and steering system are your primary safety features when riding a motorcycle. Look for a motorcycle with anti-lock brakes so your wheels don’t lock up and you can keep control in wet weather.
• Traction Control – Traction control systems give you greater control by adjusting the power delivery in slippery conditions, such as rain or riding over gravel. These systems can keep you upright and save your life by preventing a crash.
• Seats – Invest in a comfortable seat if you plan on going on long rides.
• LED Lights – LED lights are brighter and more energy efficient and make you more visible to those around you, which is crucial for preventing accidents.

Most importantly, spend your money on the features you need to maximize your riding experience!

If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident, our legal team here at Law Tigers is ready to help. For decades, we’ve helped defend the rights of wronged motorcycle riders by providing skilled representation and sound legal advice across the United States. To get a free case evaluation or to schedule your free consultation, call us at Law Tigers today at 1-800-529-8443.