Tips for Buying the Perfect Touring Motorcycle

Buying a touring motorcycle is a huge investment, and you want to get it right the first time. Don’t worry if you are unsure where to begin—we can help!

Santa Maria Harley-Davidson® is your local bike dealer in California. Our experts have gathered a few tips to help you select the perfect touring motorcycle. Read on to learn more, and for more information, swing by our dealership for a friendly chat with our team.

Plan Your Budget

Touring motorcycles come with various tags, and you want to invest in a model without breaking the bank. So, research options for an estimated price range, then look for models you can buy without making too many financial adjustments.

When calculating the total cost, consider the price of your bike, insurance, maintenance, any customizations, and the fuel price for a more realistic estimation.

Prioritize Safety

Your touring motorcycle should come outfitted with as many safety features as possible. For example, Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS), traction control, mirrors, and a clear view of the gauges are must-haves for all touring bikes. In addition, you want to invest in appropriate safety gear, like a well-fitting helmet, gloves, closed-toed shoes, a riding suit, and rain gear, before heading out.

Consider Comfort

You'll likely spend long hours on your touring motorcycle exploring various locations. Therefore, choose a bike you’ll be comfortable traveling with. You want to pay attention to the seating, handlebars, and footpegs and get a model with an ergonomic design. Be sure to focus on the available storage space, as you want your bike to carry the cargo you need to travel safely and comfortably.

Test Ride Different Models

Once you know what you are looking for, test-ride different motorcycles before making any payments. Many dealerships offer demo rides on their available models, and this is a fantastic way to get a feel for how each bike will handle.

We hope you find these tips handy when buying a touring motorcycle. If you have more questions or want to explore a few models in person before finalizing your decision, visit Santa Maria Harley-Davidson®. We happily serve Santa Maria, CA, and those from Ventura and Bakersfield.