Things to Consider Before Renting a Motorcycle
If you’re thinking of buying a bike but you’re not ready to take the plunge and drop a hefty down payment just yet, you might want to consider renting. This is a great way to enjoy all the perks of owning a bike at a more affordable price. You’ll also save money on monthly loan payments, maintenance, and repairs. Plus, choosing to rent before you buy helps you discover what you do and don’t want in a motorcycle.
Not sure where to start when it comes to renting a bike? At Biggs Harley-Davidson, we strive to make your life easier. We've gathered up a few important things that you’ll want to consider.
If you want more tips or want to explore our motorcycle rental options, get in touch with us at our dealership in San Marcos, CA. We will be happy to help you get on the road sooner and without hassle!
Types of Bikes
It’s good to know what type of motorcycle you’ll want to get before you rent one. Different models will give you different riding experiences. A smaller bike will be easier to handle, which is especially helpful if you are just learning how to ride. A larger bike will offer more stability. This can make it easier to tackle tighter corners and windy roads at a higher speed, which can be a good fit for more advanced riders. Think about your riding level and what motorcycle size would best suit you. You want to avoid renting something bigger than you can handle.
Take a Test Ride
Once you have found a bike that you are interested in renting, you'll want to take some time to inspect it. Make sure that the motorcycle is in good condition and it is ready for your future adventures! You may even want to take it for a test drive to check how the bike rides. There are some red flags you want to be aware of, such as engine smoke that is too heavy or oddly colored, like deep black or blue.
Listen for any unusual rattling or rumbling. Check and make sure the exhaust isn’t leaking or showing any signs of damage. Confirm that the transmission doesn’t jump out of gear when you go for a test drive. See if the clutch drags or slips while you’re operating it. All of these are signs of trouble and could cost you a lot of stress, which defeats the point of renting a motorcycle.
Gear Up
Another important factor to consider when you’re renting a bike is the safety gear. There are many motorcycle rental companies that provide some essential pieces of gear that you’ll need prior to hitting the road. Some companies charge extra for helmets, gloves, jackets, and riding boots. Remember to check beforehand and have all your gear in place. Make sure to try on some quality crash test certified helmets so you have a better chance of finding an ideal fit. If you’re borrowing any equipment from a friend, make sure that it’s in good condition.
Rental Contract
No matter how long you’ll be renting, you need to understand the ins and outs of the rental agreement. Of course, this should include all the financial agreements, like daily or hourly rates, fuel costs, and additional fees, but there are other concerns you need to work out.
It’s good to be aware of all the policies and procedures related to the bike rental duration, riding limitations, insurance policy, and fueling agreement. The rental firm might have rules about who can ride the motorcycle. You’ll also want to know the protocol for maintenance emergencies. Also, know what they expect you to do in the event of a breakdown or an incident. These are some of the basics, but you’ll need to fully understand the contract before signing on.
Another important tip we can provide you is how crucial it is to rent the bike from a trustworthy dealership, which is where Biggs Harley-Davidson comes in. We will help you find the perfect motorcycle to rent here at our dealership in San Marcos, California. We welcome all those in San Diego and Oceanside, CA, so get in touch with us today!