Superbikes in India are generally any motorcycle with a higher engine capacity than 500cc. Superbikes offer an extremely smooth riding experience with optimum speed and power. Naturally, superbikes are the first choice for any motorcycle enthusiast. However, being a developing country where most riders use bikes for urban commuting, India does not have many superbike owners.
But if you have made up your mind and are looking forward to buying a superbike, there are certain things you should consider. In this blog, we will delve into the factors that you must consider before purchasing the best superbike in India.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Superbike In India
1. Service Centre For Your Superbike Near You
Finding a service center for your superbike might not be one of the things on your mind while you purchase a superbike, but it just might be the most crucial aspect of keeping your bike in top condition. Regular maintenance is crucial for any superbike to ensure it functions as intended. Periodic oil changes, lubrication, engine check, etc., are crucial for the rider’s safety.
However the problem is that superbikes can only be serviced in certain service centers. These service centers must have the right equipment and skilled mechanics who know how to service a superbike properly. Ensure that the superbike you are willing to purchase has a service center in your town or at least at a ridable distance. Remember, it is best to get your bike serviced every 6 months.
2. Initial Cost
Let’s face it, superbikes are not cheap. The high power, comfortable handling, and extensive features they possess have a high cost associated with it. Typically, the price of super bikes in India starts from 6 to 7 lakhs and goes up to 70-80 lakhs. Then there are other costs such as on-road tax, GST, and Cess, which will further increase the initial cost of superbikes price.
If you have the cash to buy the bike along with the different taxes, that is fantastic; however, this is not the case with most people. In such a case, you should consider opting for EMI. You can pay a percentage of the total purchase price as a down payment along with the taxes, the rest of the amount you can stretch out over 5 to 10 years, depending on your loan amount.
3. Cost Of Owning A Superbike In India
Once you purchase the motorcycle and you bring it home, the expenses are still not over. You have to pay for fuel, insurance premiums, maintenance and servicing, and more. As these bikes require specialized attention, the cost of their upkeep is also more than your standard 150cc bikes.
You need to service your bike at least twice a year. Considering an average of 6,000 INR per service, you need to spend 12,000 INR on your bike, whether you ride it or not. Insurance costs around 10,000 to 20,000 INR per year, depending on your bike. Fuel and tires for superbikes are also more expensive than for 150cc bikes. Additionally, if you are a riding enthusiast, you need to invest in high-quality LED fog lights and crash guards to maintain safety on the road.
4. When And Where Will You Ride It
One of the biggest problems most Indian superbike owners face is the dilemma of when and where to ride it. Let’s be honest, Indian roads are not the perfect place to ride superbikes. Superbikes get super hot if you ride them at a lower speed, with the traffic on Indian roads, the engine can deteriorate.
If you have a superbike, it is best to only use it for long-distance touring. Highways and tracks are the best riding spaces for superbikes. It is also crucial to properly store your bike when it is not in use. You can read our blog on 7 Tips to Store your Motorcycle to ensure longevity.
5. Does The Bike Match Your Riding Skills
Before purchasing a superbike, you must ask yourself, if you have the skill required to ride such a bike or if you are buying the bike because it looks cool. Superbikes are heavy machinery that can range up to 200 Kgs and are hard to control for a newbie rider.
Before you purchase a superbike, you must learn to handle such a bike in various conditions, including slippery roads, rain, fog, and off-road. Being unable to control your bike can be fatal to you and other riders on the road. It is best to first master the art of riding a superbike and then purchase one.
6. Do You Have The Proper Equipment For Riding
Having the right riding equipment is important while riding any motorcycle. Naturally, superbikes require the best protective bike riding accessories. Most experienced superbike riders have the motto of “All the gear, all the time”. This means wearing all gear, including a helmet, jacket, gloves, pants, and boots, whenever you are riding, no matter the distance.
This helps to reduce accidents and injuries. You need to have a decent amount of protection on your joints and around your vitals. The quality of the equipment should also be up to the standard. If you want to keep your face and head safe, investing in a premium-quality helmet such as the LS2 MX436 Pioneer Evo Dual Sport Helmet (Evolve White Cobalt) is crucial.
7. Buying A New Superbike Vs. Buying Second Hand
If you are thinking about buying a superbike, one question that might have come up in your mind is, “Should I buy a new or used superbike?” There are several reasons why either of them could be the right choice. It all depends on what you seek out of your bike.
A new bike will have a showroom warranty, the latest technology, and less mileage. On the other hand, second-hand bikes are available at a lower price than newer bikes and have lower insurance premiums. If you are opting for 2nd hand bikes, it is best to find one that has not been much used.
8. Quality Of Fuel Available
The quality of fuel that you use for your superbike needs to be of the highest quality. Most superbikes require high-octane fuel as they are built to function their best at high speeds. When you are choosing the fuel for your superbike, it is crucial to consider what grade of fuel that is recommended.
The manufacturer of every brand of superbike recommends a specific grade of fuel. Using below-par fuel for your superbike can damage the normal functioning of your bike engine. Before you purchase the bike, check in with your local petrol pump if they supply the specific grade of fuel.
9. The Brand And Model
Now, the most important choice for selecting a superbike is the brand. Several brands offer high-quality superbikes with unique features at different prices. The choice of superbike’s brand and model depends on your riding style and needs.
Usually, what brand and model of the bike you select are based on sentimental value. However, we would recommend you do thorough research and select the one that fits your budget and riding style as well.
Conclusion
Superbikes are powerful mechanical beasts that need specific riding conditions. Unfortunately, these conditions are rare to come by in India. The above-mentioned criteria are crucial for figuring out if you should or shouldn’t buy a superbike. Finding the right fuel and service center near you is as important as having the financial capability to maintain your bike. Consider every factor mentioned above for making an informed decision.
If you have bought a superbike for yourself, it is important to also invest in the necessary riding gear. If you are going to be riding at high speeds, you need premium-quality helmets, gloves, and jackets. Accessories for your bike such as headlights, crash guard, GPS, and Bluetooth speakers can greatly improve your riding experience. Visit Bikester Global Shop to find all these riding gears and accessories and much more at affordable prices.