The real cost of motorcycling 

Motorcycling has long been seen as an affordable way to get around. Smaller registration fees, lower fuel use and compact parking make it appealing, but the cost of ownership extends well beyond the sticker price. To keep things safe, legal, and enjoyable, it’s worth knowing the costs – not just upfront, but over time. 

Planning ahead for those costs helps you avoid surprises and makes picking the right bike easier. 

Before you can ride away, you’ll need protective gear. A helmet is non-negotiable, but quality gloves, boots, jacket, and riding pants should also be treated as essential.  

Good gear makes a huge difference to comfort, confidence, and protection – and most of it will last for years if well cared for. 

Some riders start with lightweight summer options and add layers or wet-weather gear later. Others go straight for all-season kits that cover every condition. Either way, it’s best to view protective gear as part of the upfront motorcycle purchase rather than an optional extra. Make sure it’s factored into your budget when deciding how much you’ve got to spend on a bike. 

Every motorcycle needs regular attention to stay reliable. Manufacturers set service intervals based on distance or time and skipping them can quickly become a false economy. Routine services keep the engine healthy and catch wear and tear before it becomes a bigger, more expensive issue. 

Chains, brake pads, filters, and fluids are all consumable items that will eventually need replacing, and their lifespan depends on how often – and how – you ride. These are routine costs every owner should expect and plan for, and they’re essential for keeping your motorcycle safe, reliable, and roadworthy. Not to mention, it helps ensure you’ll get the best price if and when it’s time to move on. 

Tyres are another regular expense. Their lifespan varies with bike type, road surface, and riding style, but all will need replacement at some stage. Choosing the right tyre for your needs and keeping pressures correct can help extend their life, but it’s still worth budgeting for the best rubber you can afford when it’s time to replace them. Tyres in good condition improve safety, comfort, and control, while worn ones compromise all three. 

Insurance and registration are recurring costs that vary by state, engine capacity, and sometimes even postcode. Comprehensive insurance gives peace of mind against theft or damage, while third-party property cover only protects you from the costs of damaging someone else’s vehicle. It’s worth weighing up how you’d manage repairs or replacement before deciding what level of cover suits you. 

Every rider must have compulsory third-party (CTP) insurance, which covers injury to others in a crash. In most states, it’s included in the registration cost, though some require it to be purchased separately.  

Registration fees and CTP prices differ between jurisdictions, so it’s worth checking with your local transport authority before you buy. 

Very few bikes stay stock for long. Whether it’s a luggage rack, crash protection, heated grips, or an aftermarket exhaust, customising your motorcycle is all part of the fun.  

Accessories can make your ride louder, look better, safer, more comfortable, or more practical – but they also add to the overall spending. If you know you’ll want to personalise your bike, factor that in early. It’s much easier to budget for extras at the beginning than to scramble for the money later. 

There are smaller, recurring items that don’t get talked about as much but still add up: cleaning products, chain lube, roadside assistance, or even a trickle charger if you don’t ride regularly. None are major on their own, yet together they make a noticeable difference over the year. 

Motorcycles are famously frugal compared with cars, but the fuel economy still depends on engine size, tuning, and how you ride.  

Aggressive throttle use or carrying a pillion or extra luggage will increase consumption, while smoother riding and regular maintenance help keep it low. 

If you’re financing your bike, remember to include repayments and insurance requirements in your budget.  

Like any vehicle, motorcycles lose value over time. The rate of depreciation varies widely by model, brand, age at purchase, and maintenance history. Keeping a full service history helps maintain resale value when it’s time to sell. 

Whether you’re learning for the first time or returning after a break, licensing and training come with costs worth factoring in. The process and fees vary by state, with staged licences that may include learner, provisional, and unrestricted levels. 

Even after you’re fully licensed, there are optional courses designed to refresh skills or develop advanced techniques. Many riders choose to do these for safety or confidence, and while they’re not mandatory, they’re a worthwhile investment in your riding future. 

The smartest way to approach motorcycling is to think of ownership as a whole package. The purchase price is only the starting point. Gear, servicing, tyres, registration, insurance, and fuel are all part of the picture. 

By planning for those ongoing costs early, you’ll set yourself up to enjoy the experience rather than being left with a bad taste in your mouth due to financial surprises.