Kawasaki Motorcycles are thrilling fun machines that turn ordinary transportation into excitement on two wheels. But if you’re new to riding or just in the market for a new bike, it can be easy to get overwhelmed by the number of choices. And, like any major investment, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting a bike that fits you and your expectations.
Here at Bright Powersports, we know picking out a new motorcycle can be an anxiety-inducing experience if not properly prepared. There are tons of choices, not just in the greater motorcycle market, but just in the great lines of Kawasaki bikes! In that spirit, we’ve taken the time to write up a short guide to picking out your Kawasaki motorcycle. Read on for more information or give us a call at our Lincoln Park, Michigan location, near Macomb and Detroit.
The best place to start is figuring out what type of motorcycle is going to best fit your wants and needs. Kawasaki bikes range from sporty models that defy logic when it comes to speed and performance, just as they have sensible street models that’ll get you from Point A to Point B without a lot of fuss.
A good place to start is whether you’re after an off-road or street bike. It’s a clear distinction, with off-road lines being purpose built for the dirt track and riding trails where their light frames and long travel suspensions excel. In the off-road category are a few niche lines, like motocross and dual-sport, and many others that cater to specific demographics.
If you want a Kawasaki motorcycle with plenty of power and performance, you should look at their sportbikes. Kawasaki doesn’t make it easy here, as there are a few lines to choose from, including the popular Ninja® H2 and ZX supersport bikes, and down to the Ninja ABS and its more modest sportiness. You’ll have access to all the speed you’ll ever need with any of these devilish Kawasaki motorcycles.
All that power and performance transfers to the Kawasaki touring line, featuring bikes meant for long-distance travel while keeping riders comfortable along the way. These motorcycles are built with engines and chassis that can go the distance with more comfortable features so you won’t be sore and exhausted at the end of a long day of riding. You’ll find plenty to pine over in the Kawasaki Vulcan® Voyager®, and a few other models from sportier Kawasaki lines round out a great selection of touring bikes that’ll have you wondering if you didn’t accidently pick up a race bike!
If you’re more about a motorcycle commute rather than something to take trips with or a racing monster born of steel and smoke, try the Vulcan line of cruisers and Z line of street bikes. These are more modest offerings from Kawasaki in terms of pure power, but don’t be fooled by the toned-down appearance! These bikes are serious when it comes to street riding, with plenty of low-tuned torque for the feeling of ultimate control.
Size matters when it comes to your new Kawasaki motorcycle. You want to be able to reach the hand controls and the foot controls. There’s nothing more stressful than being on the edge of losing control. And for your own comfort, you won’t want to have to squeeze your body onto a bike that’s too small for you. Also keep in mind there are often upgrades you can make to your bike to better fit your size, so if there’s a model you love that is either too big or too small, talk to your dealer about how you can change that.
The size and weight of your Kawasaki motorcycle will play a factor in what you want as well. The bigger the bike, the harder it’s going to be to handle and maneuver, although they’ll be sturdier over long distances and they’re ideal for people who will be fighting the winds that get kicked up on the highway. However, many first-time riders prefer a lighter weight bike because they’re more comfortable and easier to learn with.
Also ask about how you’ll need to sit in order to properly control the bike. Take test rides as an opportunity to test out how comfortable you’ll be behind the handlebars. For example, sportier Kawasaki bikes require you to lean forward, putting a lot of weight on your wrists and requiring a strong core to control it. Cruises on the other hand won’t put as much strain on your wrists because you’re sitting up straight, but it also raises your arms a bit, so for some people it can feel less relaxed. Because of this, you’ll want to consider both what makes you feel comfortable short-term and over long periods.
There are a lot of aspects that affect the price of a motorcycle, from engine size and features to fuel economy and insurance. You can also save a little bit of money if you’re buying a used Kawasaki motorcycle rather than a new one. What you want to make sure you do is set a budget that is both realistic for yourself and for the market. You don’t want to buy a bike that’s going to be a financial strain, but you don’t want to set a price limit that’s so low that you have virtually no options. Set a range that falls just short of your absolute highest price so you have a little wiggle room. Also ask your dealer about financing options to make paying off your bike fit your schedule.
Whether you’re after a sleek sportbike with excess performance or a everyday street bike for commuting, there’s a Kawasaki motorcycle waiting for you. The next step is checking out these great bikes for yourself, so head into Bright Powersports in Lincoln Park, Michigan, near Detroit and Macomb. We’re also proud to serve all of Wayne County, Oakland County, and Livingston County. Come in today and experience the true meaning of customer satisfaction!
