Choosing the Right Motorcycle for Your Age and Riding Goals
As a 23-year-old considering a new motorcycle, you've already narrowed down your options to the Apache 200, Gixxer 250, or even a Royal Enfield. Each of these bikes has its own charm and practicality, and making a choice can be quite daunting. However, given your current phase in life, this article will help you decide based on your age and future riding goals.
Considering Your Age and Riding Phase
Your age, 23, is an ideal time to experiment with different types of motorcycles. At this stage, you likely have a high reaction time and a thirst for adventure and speed. The Apache 200 and Gixxer 250 are excellent choices for their performance and versatility. These bikes offer a thrilling ride and are perfect for city commutes and highway adventures, giving you the freedom to explore your city and beyond.
Risk Management and Responsibility
However, it's crucial to remember that age also brings responsibility. As a young adult, it's important to approach motorcycling with maturity and caution. The skills and judgment you develop now will set a foundation for future riding, including more cruiser bikes like the Royal Enfield.
Future Riding Goals and Flexibility
When you’re looking ahead to the next 15-20 years, a bike like the Royal Enfield makes sense. As you transition from high-speed thrill-seeking to a more leisurely ride, a cruiser like the Royal Enfield offers a different kind of joy and comfort. You may switch to a relatively slower bike, where riding is more about the experience rather than the speed.
Long-Term Commitment and Maintenance Considerations
While you might be tempted by the allure of a classic like the Royal Enfield, it's important to weigh the maintenance and ownership costs. For instance, the Apache RTR 160 and RE Thunderbird 35 are both great choices for city commutes and highways. The Apache requires fewer service intervals and has cheaper maintenance costs, making it a more economical choice. In contrast, the Royal Enfield, while offering a different kind of riding experience, comes with a higher service cost due to the complexity and maintenance needs of its engine.
Choosing Wisely
The key to making the right choice lies in understanding your priorities. Here are some factors to consider:
Performance and Speed: Which bike excels in terms of speed and handling?
Comfort: Which bike offers a smoother and more comfortable ride in city traffic?
Maintenance Cost: Which bike requires fewer service intervals and has lower maintenance costs?
Future Riding Goals: Which bike aligns with your future passion for riding, whether it’s speed or comfort?
A Personal Experience
I’ve personally ridden the Apache RTR 160 and the RE Thunderbird 35, and both have their advantages. The Apache excels in terms of fuel efficiency, handling, and cost-effectiveness. It handles well in city traffic and can navigate through challenging traffic conditions. Additionally, its maintenance costs are relatively low, with servicing costing around 500-700 depending on the oil type used, every 4,000 kilometers. The Apache also requires only 1 liter of engine oil per service cycle.
The Royal Enfield, on the other hand, offers a different riding experience. It has better handling but is a bit heavier, making it less maneuverable in city traffic. Its service costs are higher, around 1,500 per 5,000 kilometers, and it requires larger engine oil (2.5 liters).
While the Apache proves to be more economical in the long run, my personal experience has made me feel more at home on the Royal Enfield. This comfort and ease of use are essential when you plan to ride for enjoyment and adventure.
Conclusion
The choice ultimately depends on your current riding goals and future aspirations. If you prioritize speed, handling, and cost-effectiveness, the Apache 200 or Gixxer 250 might be the better choice. But if you’re after a more comfortable, leisurely ride and a more immersive motorcycle experience, the Royal Enfield could be the way to go. Remember, a motorcycle is more than just a means of transportation—it can be an extension of your soul. Choose wisely, and you will cherish it for years to come.