Are you new to the world of sports bike riding and have either just bought or will soon be purchasing your first sports bike? This kind of bike is built with one thing in mind – speed – and if that’s something that appeals to you, then it’s no wonder you’ve decided to make the purchase.

But there is another very important factor to consider, and that’s safety. First-timers who assume they will be able to hop on their bike and take off without any problems may be in for a surprise.

To help ease you into the world of sports bike riding, here are some tips and useful insight.

Pick the Right Kind of Sport Bike

The first tip is to ensure you choose the right kind of sports bike for your lifestyle and needs. While sports bikes don’t differ much from one another, there are some small variances when it comes to power and speed. A pure sport bike focuses on speed and will be universal no matter the make/model. Meanwhile, sports touring bikes have a little less speed and power and instead make up for it in comfort. A sport-touring bike could end up being the better option for some.

How Much Should You Expect to Spend?

Budgeting for a sports bike is usually a big part of the process, as they can range significantly. You can find a gently-used sports bike for what seems like a budget price, or go all out and purchase something brand new with all the bells and whistles. A fully decked-out sports bike can cost much more than a typical vehicle, so do your research in advance. As a beginner, it’s probably best to stick to something on the lower end of the budget. You can usually find a decent quality bike that would be perfect for beginners in the £4,500 – £7,000 range.

Practice Makes Perfect – Yes It’s Important

As the old saying goes, practice makes perfect and that certainly applies to sports bikes. You can’t expect to take your bike out for a spin and be a pro from the start. There is a lot to learn, and you need to build your comfort level and your instincts.

So, what are the basics you need to start with? Those would be how to balance the bike, how to get on the bike and pull away from a stopped position, how to shift gears, how to make turns and how to safely stop the bike.

Because your safety is at risk, it’s usually a good idea to book a professional course that has a certified instructor teaching students. Doing this means you’ll learn good and safe habits from the start. Granted, this means you’ll probably be learning on a regular motorcycle, not a sports bike, but the same skills will apply.

If you’re ready to embrace sports bike riding and are anxious to get started, these tips can certainly make the process smoother, more enjoyable, and safer.