Sport bikes: $800�1,800/yr. Cruisers: $300�700/yr. Touring bikes: $400�900/yr. Liability-only on an older bike is cheap � full coverage may not make financial sense on anything over 10 years old. New riders pay significantly more regardless of bike type. Shop multiple carriers � rates vary wildly for motorcycles.

Chain/belt service every 3,000�6,000 miles ($50�200). Tires every 5,000�12,000 miles depending on style ($250�600/set). Brake pads and fluids annually. Valve clearance checks on most metric bikes every 12,000�24,000 miles (can be $300�600 at a shop). Budget $400�800/yr for routine maintenance on any well-used bike.

Proper riding gear is non-negotiable: helmet ($150�600), jacket ($200�600), gloves ($60�150), boots ($100�400), pants ($150�400). Total: $500�1,500 minimum for real protection. Motorcycle endorsement/license if you don't have one (course + fees: $200�400). Storage and battery maintenance in winter climates.

October�November is the best time to buy � sellers want out before winter and prices drop 10�15%. High mileage on a motorcycle isn't as scary as on a car � well-maintained bikes go 50,000+ miles. Service history and tire age matter more than mileage. A bike sitting unridden for 2+ years needs a carb rebuild and full inspection regardless of how it looks.

Crash damage � check scraped pegs, bar ends, fairings, and frame sliders even if the seller says it "never went down." Fork seal leaks (oil on lower tubes). A bike that needs to warm up to idle (carb/fuel delivery issues). Any salvage or rebuilt title. Mismatched paint panels or overspray hiding prior damage.