Learner Motorcycles

It can be a bit daunting when you buy your first bike. There are however a couple of golden rules...

Take your time. Put the leg work in by sitting on a few different bikes. Most people have a pre conceived idea of what they want, but this often changes if they try out all the options.

Be careful whose advice you take. Everyone’s talked to some bloke down the pub who bought a Ford or a Holden in 1986, was nothing but trouble and reckons he’ll never buy one again. Similarly, some motorcyclists have blind brand loyalty to one bike at the expense of all others. The best advice comes from experienced, qualified mechanics. Online forums in our experience do have some value, but as with everything on the internet, it’s often a case of "have a good experience, tell your mate, have a bad one and tell the world". If in doubt, buy from a reputable dealer providing some form of warranty. If buying privately, we can provide a pre-purchase inspection.

Click here for more information for learners

Click here for more information about the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS)


Click here to view our new and used learner legal bikes for sale. 
 

FAQs

Q. New or used?

A. The single most common thing we hear when talking to a prospective new rider is “ I’m looking for a learner bike, I don’t want to spend too much as I only want it to get me through my Ps.....”. As with most things in life, you can’t have it all. Less money means compromises are made, either in the area of mechanical condition, km travelled or simply cosmetic presentation of the bike. We are happy to sell used bikes with cosmetic damage, but will not sell bikes we consider to be unsafe or likely to deteriorate rapidly soon after you hand over your hard earned cash. Being realistic about your budget is therefore essential. So, New versus used;

A major advantage of buying new is a long, comprehensive warranty. Also, everything’s new (tyres, battery etc.), meaning that you’re not buying half worn parts that will need replacing soon. Parts will be easily available. The disadvantages include a steeper depreciation curve, and higher initial cost. With the NSW learner laws in force at present, you’re going to be on a restricted licence for a while, so it can make sense to buy new.

Advantages in buying used can include lower initial cost, and a slower rate of depreciation. Disadvantages are the potential for increased costs for replacement parts, and limited warranty. In short, if you have the money, buy new. If on a limited budget, the decision has probably been made for you already – but don’t discount financing part of the purchase as it can save you money in the long run.

I used to own an old 95 model ute. Every week there was something needing replacing or fixing. I financed a new ute in 2004, and all it’s cost me so far is regular servicing and a new set of tyres. Certainly something to think about when the gap between new and used may only cost you $30 a week.  At the end of the day, you get what you pay for, and you should expect cheaper options to cost more in the long run.

Q. How much should I spend on gear?

A. We can kit you out with a helmet, jacket and gloves from around $400. Of Course, the sky’s the limit, but you don’t need to spend thousands for good protection.  We are always doing deals with the suppliers, and know what our customers need. Daryl (one of the owners) has had extensive experience as a rep for a variety of motorcycle clothing manufacturers, so will make sure you are fitted properly. This is absolutely vital if the gear is to perform correctly.

Q. Bike or scooter?

A. Decide what you want it to do, and perhaps more importantly, what it will actually do. If you live in Bondi, and want to get to work in the city and to the beach on the weekend, buy a scooter. If it’s a weekend thing, and you see yourself getting out of town now and again, it’s probably going to be a bike. If it’s simply transport, a scooter has some clear advantages such as low purchase and running costs. Provided you’re not doing prolonged freeway work, a Kymco or equivalent quality 125cc or above will get you over the harbour Bridge no problem (The most commonly asked question we hear!).  If you won’t be carrying shopping regularly, and intend to do a bit of distance, a 250cc or bigger bike will fit the bill.

Q. How do I get started?

A. The RTA is the licencing authority in NSW, so that’s your first port of call. Click here for the RTA website. There’s often a waiting list to get onto the course, so this is time you can use visiting the bike and scooter shops to narrow down your choice of purchase.

Finally, don’t be afraid to come in and ask us questions. For the inexperienced, choosing a bike or scooter can be a challenge, and you need all the help you can get. We’ll answer your questions, and point you in the right direction.