| Riding dirt bikes is an exhilarating and addictive hobby. | | | | Four-stroke engines have the benefits of tending to be |
| Unfortunately, buying a bike can leave a big hole in | | | | longer lasting and more fuel efficient. |
| your pocket and, whether you're a beginner or a skilled | | | | 4. Engine Power. |
| rider, you'll need to make the right decision when | | | | Dirt bikes have a maximum engine power of around |
| purchasing. So, let's take a look at some basic points | | | | 600 cc. Ideal cc level for beginners would be around |
| to consider, for those of you planning on buying a bike. | | | | 200-300. |
| 1. Purpose. | | | | 5. Do Your Research. |
| Bikes vary tremendously in power, size, and price. Do | | | | Once you've worked your way through the above |
| you need a bike for serious racing, or just for | | | | check list, you'll have it clear in your mind what you |
| week-end fun? A serious and skilled user will want a | | | | want the bike for, how much you can afford, and the |
| larger, more powerful bike, and will probably be | | | | type of engine you're after. Now it's time for in-depth |
| prepared to pay for this. But, there's no point in an | | | | research of the various manufacturers, to see which |
| unskilled biker paying out for something that is too | | | | ones come closest to answering your particular needs. |
| powerful. | | | | It's a good idea to also ask other riders which |
| 2. Work Out Your Budget. | | | | manufacturers they prefer. Main manufacturers include |
| If you're an experienced rider you will, at least, know | | | | Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, KTM and Kawasaki. |
| that you enjoy the sport, and that you'll use your bike. | | | | 6. Test Drive. |
| Even then, you may not have the necessary funds to | | | | Whether you're buying new or used, do ask if you can |
| fork out several thousand dollars on a new bike. And, if | | | | take the bike for a test drive. This may not always be |
| you're new to the game, it's unwise to risk large sums | | | | possible. If not do, at least, sit on it to make sure it's a |
| of money on a new bike to later discover you're not | | | | suitable size for you to handle, and that you feel at |
| that keen on biking after all! So, if funds are limited, or if | | | | home on it. |
| you're a beginner, consider buying a used bike. | | | | 7. Protective Gear. |
| 3. 2-Stroke or 4-Stroke Engine. | | | | Now you've got the bike, make sure you don't ride it |
| Generally speaking, two-stroke engine bikes are lighter, | | | | without protective gear and apparel. No point in |
| easier-to-handle, and cheaper maintenance-wise. A | | | | spending all that time and money researching and |
| beginner would be better off with one of these. | | | | buying dirt bikes just to be laid up after a spill! |