5 Essential Tips For Picking The Best LAMS Bike For You

Choosing the right Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) bike is a critical decision for beginner riders. As a learner, your bike should be reliable, easy to handle, and suited to your riding experience. LAMS bikes are designed to give new riders the opportunity to develop their skills on motorcycles that meet safety and performance standards. However, with the variety of LAMS-approved motorcycles on the market, selecting the right one can be challenging. To help you navigate this process, here are five essential tips to help you pick the best LAMS bike for your needs. When choosing LAMS bikes Australia, it’s essential to consider factors like weight, power, and safety features to ensure you find the perfect ride for your needs.

Know Your Riding Style And Why You’re Riding.

Before you choose a LAMS bike, you should think about where and how you’ll be riding. Are you going to drive through city streets for work, take long weekend road trips, or explore off-road trails? For each use, a different kind of bike is needed.

• City Commuting: If your main goal is to commute in cities, a naked or racing bike might be the best choice because they are smaller and lighter. It’s quick and easy to ride these bikes in cities with lots of people.
• Longer Rides: For those planning longer weekend rides or country excursions, a touring bike or cruiser may offer the comfort and stability needed for extended trips.
• Off-Road Adventures: If you’re interested in off-road riding, consider a dual-sport or adventure bike, which offers better suspension and is designed for both road and dirt riding.

Understanding your intended riding style will narrow down your options and help you choose a LAMS bike that aligns with your specific needs.

Consider The Bike’s Weight And Power

Weight and power are two critical factors when it comes to selecting a LAMS bike. As a learner, you want a motorcycle that is powerful enough to keep up with traffic but not so heavy or fast that it becomes difficult to control.

• Weight: A lighter bike is generally easier for beginner riders to manage, especially at low speeds or when parking. Heavy motorcycles can be harder to maneuver and may cause fatigue during longer rides. Look for a LAMS bike that you can comfortably handle, especially if you’re new to riding.
• Power: LAMS bikes are capped at a certain power-to-weight ratio, ensuring they aren’t too powerful for inexperienced riders. However, some LAMS bikes still offer more horsepower than others. Consider your confidence and skill level when choosing a bike with the right balance of power and control.

Starting with a bike that has a manageable amount of power is often a safer choice for new riders. As you gain experience, you can always upgrade to a more powerful machine.

Test Ride Different Models

Test riding is one of the most important steps when selecting a LAMS bike. Sitting on a motorcycle in a showroom is different from experiencing how it feels on the road. You can learn a lot about how the bike moves, how comfortable it is, and whether it fits the way you ride by going for a test ride.

When Test Riding, Pay Attention To The Following Aspects:

• Seat Comfort: Check to see if the seat is soft enough for long rides. Is it too high, low, or just right for your height?
• Handlebar Reach: Ensure that you can reach the handlebars comfortably without straining your back or shoulders.
• Foot Peg Position: Check whether your feet are positioned comfortably on the foot pegs, especially for longer trips.

By trying out several models, you can compare how each bike feels and which one offers the best overall experience for your needs.

Research Reliability And Maintenance Costs

Owning a motorcycle involves more than just the initial purchase price. Maintenance and reliability are key considerations, especially for beginner riders who may not be familiar with the ongoing costs of keeping a bike in good condition.

Some LAMS bikes may need to be serviced, or parts replaced more often, which can add up over time. Before making your decision, research the reliability of different models and check out reviews from other riders. Reliable motorcycles are not only safer, but they also help you avoid unnecessary expenses down the road.

Also, think about how easy it is to get new parts and how much they cost. Certain models may have limited parts availability, which could lead to higher maintenance costs in the long run. Look for models with a reputation for low-maintenance requirements and easy-to-find parts.

Take Safety Features Into Account

Safety should always be a top priority, especially for new riders. Modern LAMS bikes come with various safety features that can significantly enhance your riding experience.

Some Key Safety Features To Look For Include:

• ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System): ABS helps prevent the wheels from locking up during braking, which can reduce the risk of skidding, especially on wet or slippery roads.
• Traction Control: This feature helps manage the bike’s power delivery, preventing wheel spin during acceleration. It’s particularly useful for beginners who may not be familiar with throttle control.
• Slipper Clutch: A slipper clutch reduces the impact of sudden downshifts, preventing the rear wheel from locking up. This is especially beneficial for newer riders who may not have perfected their shifting technique.

When shopping for a LAMS bike, consider investing in a model that comes with these advanced safety features. They can help boost your confidence as a new rider and provide an added layer of protection on the road.

Conclusion

Selecting the right LAMS bike is a crucial decision for any learner rider. By understanding your riding style, considering weight and power, testing different models, researching reliability, and prioritising safety features, you can confidently choose a bike that suits your needs. The right LAMS bike will not only make your riding experience more enjoyable but also ensure that you develop the skills necessary to become a confident and safe rider.