Introduction
Motorcycles have a special place in the hearts of many Dutch people. These two-wheelers are not just a means of transportation; they represent freedom, adventure en a unique lifestyle. Whether you dream of long rides through de polders or fast trips across de Veluwe, a motorcycle offers an unparalleled experience.
De attraction of motorcycling
In de recent years, motorcycling has gained tremendous momentum as a hobby. More and more people are discovering de benefits:
- A sense of freedom en independence
- De opportunity to explore de world in a different way
- A close-knit community of like-minded enthusiasts
- An outlet for stress en a way to relax
The importance of making an informed choice
Buying a motorcycle is not a decision you take lightly. It's not just about choosing a make or model that appeals to you. There is much more to it:
- Safety first: de right bike for your experience en riding style
- Financial considerations: purchase, maintenance en insurance
- Practicalities: what will you use de engine for?
- Personal preferences: comfort, design en performance
Making de right choice can mean the difference between years of driving pleasure or disappointment. That's why it's essential to inform yourself well before taking the de plunge. In de following sections, we dive deeper into all the aspects involved in buying your ideal motorcycle.
Types of Motorcycles
If you are looking for a motorcycle, it is important to know what types there are. Each category has its own characteristics en advantages, tailored to different riding styles en preferences.
Overview of motorcycle categories
- Touring motorcycles: Perfect for long distances en comfort. They offer an upright seating position, good wind protection en lots of luggage space.
- Sport Engines: Designed for speed en performance. These bikes have a forward leaning seat position en are ideal for track days or fast rides.
- Naked bikes: Versatile motorcycles without fairings, suitable for daily use en short rides. They offer a good balance of comfort en sportiness.
- Cruisers: Characterized by their low seating position en relaxed riding style. Perfect for quiet touring en lovers of classic design.
- Adventure/Allroad motorcycles: Suitable for both asphalt and dirt roads. Ideal for adventurers who like to go off-road.
De select appropriate category
When selecting a motorcycle type, consider your riding experience, purpose of use en personal preferences. Beginners may benefit from a naked bike because of de versatility, while experienced riders may prefer a sport or adventure bike.
Also consider your daily routes en whether you want to ride long distances. A touring motorcycle may be more comfortable for commuting, while a cruiser is perfect for leisurely weekend rides.
Regardless of your choice, make sure de proper protection. A quality helmet is essential for any motorcyclist. Brands such as Roof en Scorpion , available from specialists such as Vespucci, offer helmets to suit different motorcycle styles en safety requirements.

Read more: 7 Essential Tips for Buying Your First Motorcycle
New vs. Used Motorcycles
Choosing between a new or used motorcycle is an important decision every motorcycle enthusiast must make. Both options have their own advantages en disadvantages, so let's take a look at de key considerations.
Benefits of a new motorcycle
A brand new engine has undeniable advantages. First, you enjoy factory warranty, which provides peace of mind en potential cost savings in case of unexpected problems. In addition, you are assured of de latest technologies en safety features, such as advanced braking systems en enhanced stability control.
Benefits of a used motorcycle
On de other hand, a used motorcycle can be a smart choice for your wallet. You often get more motorcycle for your money, en de biggest drop in value has already taken place. Plus, there's a larger selection available, so you may find that one special model you've been looking for for years.
Factors to consider
When making your choice, consider your budget, riding experience en purpose of use. A new motorcycle may be ideal for daily commuting because of de reliability, while a used motorcycle may be perfect for weekend rides or as your first motorcycle.
Regardless of your choice, always invest in good protection. A high-quality helmet is essential for any motorcyclist, whether you ride a new or used motorcycle. Make sure your helmet meets de latest safety standards en comfortable for long rides.
The Buying Process
Buying a motorcycle is an exciting adventure, but it requires thorough preparation. Let's take a look at de key steps in the buying process.
Research en prepare yourself
Start your search online. Read reviews, compare specs en dive into motorcycle forums to read experiences of other riders. Make a list of motorcycles that appeal to you en fit within your budget.
Then visit showrooms en dealers. Here you can see de motorcycles in real life en feel them. Ask questions of de salespeople en get informed about de different models.
Important factors to consider
Determine your budget en research financing options. Don't forget to also consider additional costs such as insurance, maintenance en protective clothing.
Be honest about your riding experience en skills. A bike that is too powerful can be dangerous for beginners. Choose a motorcycle that suits your skill level.
Think about the purpose of use. Do you want to use de motorcycle mainly for commuting or do you dream of long touring trips? This will influence your choice of type en model.
Test drive en motorcycles compare
Test ride different motorcycles. Pay attention to comfort, handling en or de motorcycle suits you. Compare de motorcycles not only on paper, but also by feel.
Take de time for this process en don't be rushed. A well-considered choice will ensure years of riding pleasure. En remember: a good helmet is indispensable for safe motorcycling, no matter which motorcycle you choose.

What to Look Out For When Buying a Motorcycle
When buying a motorcycle, there are several aspects to consider. These factors can make the difference between a great ride en a disappointing experience. Let's take a look at de key points.
Technical aspects
Engine performance en power
Choose a motorcycle that suits your riding experience en -style. For beginners, a bike with less power is often safer, while experienced riders may be looking for more power. Also pay attention to torque, which determines how fast de motorcycle accelerates.
Brakes en safety features
Good brakes are crucial to your safety. Look for motorcycles with ABS (anti-lock braking system) en, if possible, traction control. These systems can help you in tricky situations on de road.
Comfort en ergonomics
A comfortable seating position is essential, especially for longer rides. Note de height of the saddle, de position of de footrests en the handlebars. Try out different bikes to get a feel for what suits you best.
Practical considerations
Maintenance en repair costs
Inquire about de service intervals en average repair costs. Some engines are more expensive to maintain than others. This can make a significant difference in your overall expenses in the long run.
Insurance en road tax
Remember to include de costs for insurance en road tax in your considerations. These can vary depending on the type en de displacement of de engine.
Accessories en equipment
Think about what accessories you need, such as cases for luggage or a windshield for longer rides. Also, don't forget to invest in good protective gear en a high-quality helmet. A reliable helmet is essential for your safety, no matter what type of motorcycle you choose.
By considering all these factors, you can make an informed choice that suits your needs, riding style en budget. Take de time to compare different options en seek advice from experienced riders or professionals in de motorcycle industry.
De Role of de Dealer
When buying a motorcycle, de dealer plays a crucial role. A good dealer is not just a selling point, but a valuable partner in your motorcycle adventure. Let's take a look at why choosing an authorized dealer is so important en what services you can expect.
Why choose an authorized dealer?
Authorized dealers have direct ties to de manufacturer. This means they have de most up-to-date knowledge en training specific to de brands they sell. They have access to original parts en de latest models, which is crucial for both new and used engines.
Services offered by a good dealer
Expert advice en guidance
An experienced dealer can help you choose de the right motorcycle to suit your riding style, experience en budget. They can inform you about de latest technologies en safety features so you can make an informed decision.
After-sales service en maintenance
Good dealers offer excellent after-sales service, including regular maintenance en repairs. They often employ specialized mechanics to keep your bike in top condition.
Warranty en customer service
Authorized dealers can offer factory warranties en often have additional warranty packages. In addition, you can count on professional customer service for questions or problems.
The importance of a trusting relationship with your dealer
A good relationship with your dealer can have many long-term benefits. They can keep you updated on de new models, accessories en upgrades that fit your preferences. In addition, a trusted dealer can help you maintain en upgrade your protective gear, such as your helmet, which is essential to your safety on de the road.
By choosing a reputable dealer, you assure yourself of expertise, reliability en support throughout your motorcycle career. It's an investment that pays off in riding pleasure en peace of mind.
Financing en Insurance
Financing your new motorcycle en arranging proper insurance are crucial steps in the buying process. Let's take a look at de different options you have.
Financing options for your new motorcycle
When buying a motorcycle, you have several financing options:
- Personal loan: A flexible option where you borrow a fixed amount en repay in installments.
- Motorcycle leasing: Here you "rent" de motorcycle for a longer period of time, often with de option to take it over at the end of the contract.
- Financing through de dealer: Many dealers offer their own financing arrangements, sometimes with attractive terms.
Each method has its advantages en disadvantages. A personal loan gives you immediate ownership, but may have higher monthly fees. Leasing often offers lower monthly costs, but you don't own de engine immediately.
The importance of good motorcycle insurance
A decent motorcycle insurance policy is indispensable for every motorcyclist. There are several types of insurance:
- Third-party insurance: Covers damage you cause to others (required by law).
- WA+ Limited Casco: Also covers certain damages to your own motorcycle, such as theft or fire.
- All-risk insurance: Provides de most comprehensive coverage, including damage to your own motorcycle.
When choosing insurance, consider factors that affect de premium:
- Your driving experience en age
- The type en de value of your engine
- Your hometown en storage of de motorcycle
Remember that a good helmet en protective clothing is essential to your safety. Invest in quality en comfort as this can significantly improve your riding experience en safety.
Safety en Driveability
Motorcycling is a great experience, but safety should always come first. Wearing de proper protective gear is essential for any motorcyclist, regardless of your experience.
The importance of safety in motorcycling
Motorcyclists are more vulnerable in traffic than motorists. Therefore, it is crucial to protect yourself properly. A good helmet is the most important part of your safety equipment. Choose a helmet that meets de ECE standard en properly fits your head shape.
Safety equipment en protective clothing
In addition to a helmet, it is important to invest in:
- Motorcycle jacket en -pants with protectors
- Motorcycle gloves
- Motorcycle boots
- Back protector
These items protect you in the event of a fall en provide comfort while riding.
De Proper motorcycle helmet: Indispensable for safety en comfort
An important part of motorcycling is choosing de proper helmet. De helmet is not only mandatory, but also essential for your safety on de road. A good motorcycle helmet protects your head in the event of a fall or collision en can save lives. Therefore, it is important to invest in a helmet that fits well en meets de latest safety standards, such as ECE 22.06.
In addition to safety, a helmet also provides comfort while riding. Whether you choose a jet helmet, system helmet or full-face helmet, make sure it suits your riding style en personal preferences. Pay attention to features such as ventilation, weight en extras such as an anti-fog visor.
Want more information about helmets? Then read our blog about helmets. Want to see de collection directly? Click here. A helmet is more than an accessory - it is your most important protection on de motorcycle!
Driving skills courses en trainings
Even experienced riders can benefit from additional training. Consider taking a riding skills course to improve your skills en stay up-to-date with de latest safety techniques.
Tips for safe motorcycling
- Always be alert en anticipate the behavior of other road users
- Keep sufficient distance
- Adjust your speed to de conditions
- Make sure you are highly visible to others
By taking safety seriously, you can confidently enjoy de freedom that motorcycling offers.
Maintenance en Care
A well-maintained motorcycle is not only safer, it also lasts longer en retains its value. Let's look at de key aspects of motorcycle maintenance.
Basic maintenance for your motorcycle
Regular checks en service checks
Carefully follow the maintenance schedule from de manufacturer. This usually includes:
- Oil change
- Replacing filters
- Check tires en inflate
- Check brakes en if necessary replace
- Lubricate chain en adjust
Daily en weekly maintenance
Perform a quick check before each trip:
- Tire pressure en -condition
- Brake operation
- Lighting
- Oil level
Weekly de chain lubrication en de inspect general condition of your bike.
Winter storage en seasonal care
If you store your bike during the winter, take de the following steps:
- Fill tank to prevent rusting
- Battery maintenance or removal
- Place motorcycle on a stand to relieve de tires
- Use a breathable cover
The importance of original parts en professional maintenance
Invest in genuine parts for optimal performance en safety. Have major maintenance performed by an authorized dealer or specialist. They have de proper knowledge en tools to keep your engine in top condition.
Remember that good maintenance also applies to your safety equipment. Check your helmet regularly for damage en replace it if necessary. After all, a quality helmet is indispensable for safe motorcycling.
Conclusion
Buying a motorcycle is an exciting venture that requires careful consideration. Whether you choose a brand new machine or a reliable used motorcycle, there are some important points to keep in mind:
- Determine your budget en take into account additional costs such as insurance en maintenance
- Choose an engine type that suits your riding experience en purpose of use
- Invest in quality safety equipment, especially a good helmet
- Consider de pros en cons of new versus used motorcycles
- Buy from a trusted dealer for expert advice en after-sales service
- Ensure regular maintenance to keep your engine in top condition
- Continue to improve your driving skills with additional training
By observing these points, you de increase your chances of years of safe en enjoyable motorcycling.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which is better: a new or used motorcycle? It depends on your budget en preferences. New motorcycles offer de latest technology en warranty, while used motorcycles often offer better value for money.
- How do I choose de right motorcycle helmet? Choose a helmet that fits your head shape, meets de ECE standard en comfortably. Try different models en brands to find de best fit.
- How often should I have my motorcycle serviced: Follow the maintenance schedule from de manufacturer, usually every de 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers or annually, whichever comes sooner.
- Is it mandatory to have motorcycle insurance? Yes, in the Netherlands at least third-party insurance is required by law for all motorcyclists.
- What protective gear do I need besides a helmet? Invest in a motorcycle jacket, pants, gloves en boots with protectors for optimal safety.
- Can I ride any motorcycle directly with my motorcycle license? No, there are different categories of motorcycle licenses (A1, A2, A) that determine which type of en power motorcycle you can ride.
- How do I prepare my motorcycle for de winter storage? Fill de tank, maintain de battery, place de motorcycle on a stand en use a breathable cover for de best protection during de winter months.