The Full Cost of Owning a Motorcycle

Buying a motorcycle is a ticket to adrenaline rushes and awesome adventures! However, like any significant purchase such as a car, boat, or house, it will trigger some additional expenses. We want all of our customers to enter into motorcycle ownership with full awareness of the costs. Here’s a guide to additional expenditures you can expect to face to keep your machine happy and yourself safe. 

If you want more information or are ready to explore motorcycles for sale, come see us at Willamette Valley Harley-Davidson in Eugene, Oregon, serving Albany and Corvallis too!

The Riding Gear

Riding gear is a must-have for personal safety. You need a helmet and a set of motorcycle-specific outerwear including a jacket, pants, gloves, and boots. If you plan to bring a friend, you might need a second helmet, and if you’re a four-season biker here in western Oregon, you’ll probably want gear for cold wet weather and for summer riding. Helmets are rated for one impact, and they’re intended to last about five years, so plan your expenses accordingly. 

Maintenance

While maintenance costs can vary widely, calculating about $1000 per year on maintenance is a good starting point. When a bike is brand new, it may cost less, and when it gets up in miles, it might cost more. Other variables include whether you ride a lot, the kind of terrain you cover, where you store it, and how well you take care of it. 

Insurance

It’s always smart to talk to your insurance agent before you buy so you don’t face any surprises. Generally, you can expect to pay between $200 and $500 per year, depending on your coverage. Just like with a car, make sure you understand exactly what your insurance covers. Personal injury for the rider can add up to high medical bills, so make sure you’re covered in case you are at fault, or you collide with an uninsured motorist. 

Motorcycle Courses and License 

The State of Oregon requires new riders to pass an approved course. This is worth every penny because it will help you be a safer, more defensive rider. Riders under 21 must successfully complete an approved Team Oregon basic course before applying for a motorcycle endorsement. Riders from out of state with a valid motorcycle endorsement don’t need to take a course. Courses run $200-250. You may wish to take advanced classes for your own benefit. 

Security

If you value your bike, you’ll invest in a super-solid lock. You may also need to upgrade the security of your garage or parking spot. There’s nothing quite like the anguish of heading out to hop on your bike, and finding it gone. 

We hope you found this guide helpful! You can always talk to our experienced and knowledgeable team members if you have any questions. We look forward to helping you find the bike you crave at Willamette Valley Harley-Davidson in Eugene, Oregon, serving the riding community in Albany and Corvallis too!