When shopping motocross helmets, all you really need to do is try them on for comfort and fit. However, when shopping for sport bikes, the same doesn’t hold true. Though you want to sit on each bike and test how it feels, there are several other factors you need to consider before making the final purchase. Read on for considerations to make when choosing the best sport bike for your riding needs.
Performance
Obviously, performance is one of the greatest factors you should consider when shopping for a dirt bike. Though performance needs vary from rider to rider, all quality sport bikes should come fully equipped with stiff racing suspensions, excellent brakes and enhancement technology such as steering dampers, ABS and selectable performance modes for street or track.
In addition to fancy features, most sport bikes feature four-cylinder engines with horsepower at between 5,000 and 7,000 RPM. However, there are some that are equipped with three-cylinder engines or engines that are V-designed and can be either two or four cylinders, depending on the rider’s needs and capabilities. Beginners generally opt for two-cylinder inline engines.
Ergonomics
Sport bikes were designed for performance and not comfort. Though bike manufacturers do strive to make their sport bikes as comfortable as possible, the height of the seat and the position of the handlebars — positions that make a sport bike a sport bike — make it virtually impossible to achieve true comfort with these machines. Regardless of the make or model, you’ll find that each ride you test will require you to lay nearly flat on your stomach with your chest on the fuel tank. To look forward, you’ll also have to keep your head up, which requires muscle strength and a light, aerodynamic helmet. This position enables you to stay aerodynamic, as it prevents wind resistance from impacting your performance. You can shop lightweight motorcycle helmets online.
Pros and Cons
Sport bikes are powerful, which is the number one reason that people purchase them. Sport bikes offer power, speed and agility, which is why many compare to the ride to flying. They’re also highly responsive and can take corners with more control than any other class of bike.
The slim, lightweight design results in a bike that is aerodynamic and easy to handle. Because they’re pretty much flawless when they come off the assembly line, you’ll find that you don’t have to invest too much in aftermarket motorcycle parts.
That said, though there are countless pros of owning a sport bike, there are also several cons. The biggest flaw, perhaps, is the comfort, or lack thereof. Unless you have unparalleled muscle strength, it is unlikely you’ll want to take your sport bike on any long road trips. These bikes also often lack storage compartments, though some do come with small amounts of storage. If storage is something you’re interested in, be sure to let the dealer know.
Though you don’t want to knock a bike’s power, know that with sport bikes, power can be a detriment, especially if you’re just learning to ride. Because the bikes are so responsive, riders are often tempted to push both the limits of their skills and the law.
If you do end up getting a sport bike, you’re in for the ride of your life. Just be sure you gear up in the proper safety equipment before you hit the road. Shop the best riding gear online today.
