Consumers have factors to weigh before purchasing a motorcycle

HUNTINGTON -- Whether an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or a motorcycle, finding exactly the right fit for a person is a difficult task.

Many people might believe that a purchase would be similar to that of a car, but there are very different characteristics between the two methods of transportation

"With a motorcycle, you are buying a lifestyle," said Lynn Rist, marketing specialist for Charlie's Harley-Davidson in Huntington. "A car you may have to have. A motorcycle is a discretionary purchase."

Even though they are sometimes thought of as toys, buying ATVs and motorcycles is something that needs to be thought out to ensure that the purchaser is getting exactly what they need.

These "toys" are extremely dangerous when not played with properly, so getting the best safety features should be top priority on the consumer's list.

Tires are of utmost importance when dealing with these particular methods of transportation. Helmets and proper riding gear also should be at the forefront of the consumer's mind.

Also, consumers need to be thinking about the uses for the vehicle they are purchasing. In the case of an ATV, are you going to use it with a trailer on the back to haul items or are you just going to use it to blaze the trails in the woods?

Or with a motorcycle, it is going to be used for a leisurely ride in your city or used for long trips across the nation?

And if you get into the scenario of riding across the nation, do you need a bike with cargo space on the sides or do you want to keep your belongings hidden? All of these questions face consumers each day, Rist said.

Identifying needs in a machine will help you to focus your search and ensure that you clearly get the machine you want when you go to purchase.

"There are a lot of different factors when purchasing and there are a lot of ways that you can tailor a motorcycle to your needs," Rist said.

Rist added that in the case of motorcycles, there is one point of emphasis that all consumers should know when going into Charlie's to make a purchase or just look.

"Sit on the bike," Rist said. "Only you will know what feels right. You can sit on anything that is down on the floor. Our sales staff is extremely knowledgeable and they can determine what is right for you."