H-D Forums Asks: ‘Should I Buy a Harley as My First Bike?’
Many new bikers have dreamed of owning a Sportster. Is it a good idea to take the plunge right away?
We’re naturally inclined to toot our own horn, but for our money, there’s no better place on the Internet than H-D Forums. Whatever question you’re asking, we have thousands of members poised to weigh in and give their perspective.
Today, we’re answering an age-old question. If you’re just starting out, is it a good idea to get started on a Harley-Davidson? Should you start out on something smaller instead, and work your way up to a bigger bike?
In our Sportster subforum, new member Frank_the_Beard (is that a ZZ Top reference?) asked those exact questions. He wants a Sportster, and, as he says, “I eventually will have one.”
However, after talking to some folks, he’s concerned that it’s too much bike for him. He’s considering a Honda Shadow instead. If we’re being completely objective here, the Shadow is a fine bike, after all. Crucially, it’s also lighter and easier to handle for beginners, and likely cheaper, too, depending on what year rage you’re talking.
Several members suggest taking a basic rider course. The course not only teaches you basic techniques and the rules of the road, it also helps to build confidence, and can help a new rider determine their relative comfort level.
Frank_the_Beard mentions that he spent time as a youngster riding dirt bikes. Many of those skills will transfer to the street, and any past experience on two wheels will help. One of our members, 01dyna, points out that the cost issue may be the main driving force behind the advice.
The average new rider will drop their bike a few times when they begin riding. It’s much less stressful to drop an inexpensive beginner bike than a brand new Harley that you paid nearly ten grand (or more) for. Plus, a smaller, lighter bike will be easier to pick up.
Now, it’s my turn to weigh in. I’d spent years dreaming of owning and riding a Sportster before I went out and got one of my own. I was initially planning on starting with a smaller, lighter bike, until I found a great deal on mine. I couldn’t be happier.
Sure, it’s heavy, but it’s not hard to manage at all. The center of gravity is very low, which made it forgiving at low speeds. Believe it or not, it’s very maneuverable at low speeds and makes a great city bike.
Best of all, it’s supremely easy to work on. My Sportster has taught me a lot about bikes, and now, there’s no maintenance job I don’t feel comfortable tackling on my own (except mounting tires).
So, my advice? Live your dream, and buy a Sportster as your first bike. You won’t regret it, especially if you buy an older bike for a bargain price. I paid just $2300 for mine, and I’ve found even better deals in the years since. Most of our members echoed this same advice. Welcome to the family, Frank_the_Beard!
Photos: Harley-Davidson
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