While there are a lot of motorcycle varieties on the market, one of the most common questions new motorcycle consumers have is whether the size of the motorcycle matters. Big motorcycles and small motorcycles each have their own advantages and disadvantages, so you’ll need to make an educated decision with your needs in mind when it comes time to purchase a new bike.

Big vs Small Motorcycles: What's Right for You?

One thing you’ll need to identify is what matters the most for you so that you can consider the trade-offs that come with a certain sized bike. There are a number of pros and cons for each, but you may find that many of the cons double as pros for the competition and vice versa.

Pros and Cons to Heavyweight Motorcycles

Pros

• Better speeds on the highway. Heavier motorcycles contain more powerful engines, which makes it easier to cruise on open roads as well as to navigate hillier terrain.

• More passenger capabilities. While smaller bikes can still be capable of carrying a passenger, it will come at a cost of both comfort and economy. By contrast, a heavier weight motorcycle will have more spacious accommodations and a sturdier engine that can haul the additional weight of a passenger and their gear easier.

• More accessories and creature comforts. Bigger bikes have the extra room for additional pieces of wind shielding, as well as extra gadgetry and improved sound systems.

Cons

• Some argue that a bigger bike ends up being too comfortable and separates the rider from the experience of riding a bike. These riders view the smooth ride with technological accoutrements to be counter to why they ride a motorcycle.

• Bigger, heavier bikes with more complicated engines can require very specific parts and expertise that not all mechanics may have access to. This can cause significant delays when traveling on longer range trips or, in dire circumstances, can lead to the stranded or abandonment of the bike – an expensive loss.

Pros and Cons to Lightweight Motorcycles

Pros

• Enforces creative solutions in deference to the bike’s lifespan. While lighter bikes can certainly be used at highway speeds, it can be gentler on the bike to take lesser used, lower speed limit roads, since it doesn’t push the engine as hard. While taking longer to get to your destination could be seen as a con, many motorcycle adventurers view touring lesser-traveled paths as part of the reason to bike, and a lighter-weight motorcycle can help block the temptation of always taking the quickest route.

• Cheaper to purchase and maintain than larger motorcycles. Lightweight bikes generally get better gas mileage and use cheaper parts, making regular and emergency maintenance less debilitating.

Cons

• Typically a bumpier ride. If your area’s roads are uneven or you decide to go riding on a windy day, your ride definitely won’t be as comfortable as if you were on a heavier bike.

• Lightweight bikes are sometimes considered to be more difficult for new riders as well. Since heavier bikes are more stable and have smoother, more gradual torques, they can be more beginner-friendly.

It Also Depends on Brand

The brand of the bike you’re considering should also play into the decision making process, as different brands – and even product lines within the same brand – will ride differently, and have their own unique pros and cons. Do your research, talk to experts, and test drive if the option is available in your area.

Of course, there’s one final consideration: you, the rider, yourself. Ultimately, your bike is a personal choice, and your own preferences will guide your decision. Furthermore, other factors such as the body shape and weight of the rider will affect whether a bigger or smaller bike will feel better to ride.