Getting started:For many people, their newly matured SSIA is a cause for celebration, and there is no better way to pat yourself on the back than with a new motorbike. But unlike a plasma screen television or a vibrating recliner, people have a nasty habit of getting themselves killed while riding motorbikes, so this isn't something you should take lightly and dive into without due consideration.
Obviously, the first thing you're going to need is a licence: but the bad news is that provisional riders are restricted to motorbikes of 35hp until they get a full licence, and are not allowed carry pillion passengers either. The power restriction remains in place for two years after you've got your full licence as well, so bear in mind you have at least three years of low-power riding to endure before you can get to the good stuff.
The good news is that virtually every bike can be fitted with a restrictor so at least you'll look the part, even if you have no power.
A motorcycle course such as those offered by the Motorcycle Safety Association is highly recommended. It will not only get you familiar with controlling a motorbike, the course will also teach you how to ride defensively, avoid danger and stay safe.
Choosing a bike is another crucial part of the process, but just because you like the look of a big Harley or a racy sports bike doesn't mean it will actually suit your body, your riding style or how you plan to use your bike. Make a shortlist of potential choices, and try out a couple of bikes before you make your mind up.
Also consider which accessories you want and budget for those. Items like heated grips and seats make biking in the winter much more agreeable, while tank bags with map-holders are useful if you intend to go touring or exploring the city. Extras such as pannier bags and rear boxes vastly increase your bike's practicality, though large scooters tend to have large luggage areas built into the bodywork.
Do bear in mind the running costs, too. Fuel and tax costs are negligible compared to cars, but insurance can be expensive, and spare parts and servicing can some times be horrendous. Bike tyres also tend to wear out fast and are very costly to replace, so do your research before you buy - talk to owners and check out some enthusiasts' websites so there are no surprises down the line. If you have a life insurance policy, that's likely to go up as well and it could be considered void if you don't tell them you've bought a bike.
Don't even bother with second-hand bikes unless you have someone with you who genuinely knows what they're looking at. Accident damage is your big enemy here, as bikes are easy to crash and can damage themselves significantly, even at low speeds. Look for severe road-rash and deep scrapes, as well as new components like mirrors, crash bungs, pedals and pegs, faring and any sign of a recent re-spray on the tank or bodywork. An experienced rider should also be able to tell almost immediately if the frame, forks, swing-arm or wheels are bent, so a knowledgeable test-pilot is essential. Mechanical woes like tired clutches, gearboxes, chains, belts, brakes and fuel systems are also best avoided.
Buying a stolen bike is another concern, especially as they're easy to steal and can be shipped in from anywhere in the world. Make sure all the paperwork is in order, and don't be afraid to ask for the phone numbers of previous owners or the garage where it was bought and serviced.
Similarly, when you eventually buy your bike make sure it has the proper security - use big chains to padlock it to a specially installed wall or driveway bracket if you can, and make sure you get an alarm and brake disc locks as well. Really top-end stuff needs a good tracking device too, because professional thieves won't be put off by a few chains.
Don't borrow a helmet, or get one off a neighbour. Go to a reputable main dealer and buy a known or recommended brand - ask the vendor to help you find the one that fits you best. This could save your life one day, so now's not the time to be scrimping.
A brightly coloured helmet is easiest to see from a distance, and avoid tinted lenses as well - we have more overcast days than sunny ones.
Leathers look great, but are really only suitable for dry, sunny days. You're better off getting some waterproof protective gear to begin with - they're more suitable for our changeable climate and allow more flexibility, too. Many all-weather outfits have zips and vents which can be opened on sunny days, as well as a lining that can be removed. Just make sure the knees, elbows, shoulders and thighs are padded, and invest in a good back brace as well.
Gloves are vital, too, because your hands are often the first thing to hit the ground while proper boots help keep out the elements, and protect your feet should you come off at speed.
Bikes are fairly unreliable compared to cars, so invest in breakdown cover and bring some basic breakdown equipment with you like jump-leads, a spare litre of the recommended oil, a mobile phone, a rain mac, plastic bin-liners to kneel on, work gloves and a basic tool kit. It's also no harm to practise removing the pegs and getting at the battery in case you need to do either at night in the rain.
Now that you've got your bike, use it - in all kinds of conditions, traffic situations and types of roads so you hone your balance and control skills, as well as gaining a better understanding of the new hazards you face.
Sand, gravel, mud, leaves, dim-witted and dead animals, white lines, potholes, manhole covers, small rocks, car and truck blind spots, cross winds, oily patches and litter are just some of the dangers which could send you flying, so get used to spotting them.
Motorbikes might be a fun way to treat yourself for all your hard saving, but biking is also a very fast way to lose more than just a few grand.