The Cost of Motorcycle Ownership: Bike, Gear, Maintenance, and More

Owning a motorcycle isn’t just about looking cool at the traffic lights or feeling the wind rush past your helmet on an open stretch of road (although, let’s be honest—that’s a huge part of it). Whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned biker thinking of upgrading, understanding the real cost of motorcycle ownership is essential.

 

From the upfront investment of buying your bike to the ongoing expenses of gear, maintenance, and insurance, let’s break down what you’ll need to budget for before you hit the road.

Buying Your Motorcycle: New vs. Used

Your biggest initial cost is, of course, the bike itself. But should you buy brand new, or is a second-hand ride the smarter move? Let’s weigh it up.

 

New Motorcycles

 

Going for a new bike means you get that fresh-off-the-showroom-floor feeling, complete with a manufacturer’s warranty and no sketchy history. Expect to pay:

 

• $3,000 – $8,000 for entry-level learner-approved models
• $8,000 – $15,000 for mid-range bikes
• $15,000 – $30,000+ for high-performance or premium models

PIT bikes tend to be more affordable, as you can see in the BLYGO PIT bike range, which can cost you around $1,200 to $3,100 depending on the model.

Used Motorcycles

 

If you’re on a budget (or just don’t mind a few scratches), buying second-hand can save you thousands. Prices vary widely based on age, condition, and brand, but you can generally find:

 

• $2,000 – $5,000 for a solid beginner bike
• $5,000 – $10,000 for mid-range models
• $10,000+ for premium or high-performance second-hand bikes

 

Pro Tip: When buying used, always check the bike’s history, ensure it hasn’t been in an accident, and take it for a test ride before handing over any cash.

 

Essential Riding Gear: Safety First!

If you’re picturing yourself flying down the highway in a t-shirt and jeans, think again. Proper riding gear isn’t just a safety requirement—it’s a lifesaver. And yes, it does add to your upfront costs. Here’s what you’ll need:

 

• Helmet: $150 – $1,000 (and worth every cent)
• Jacket: $250 – $800 (leather or textile, your call)
• Gloves: $50 – $300
• Pants: $150 – $600
• Boots: $150 – $500

 

Full gear can set you back $800 to $3,000, but considering your safety is on the line, it’s money well spent.

 

Pro Tip: In Australia, it’s illegal to ride without an approved helmet. Choose one that meets Australian safety standards (AS/NZS 1698 or ECE 22.05).

Ongoing Costs: What It Takes to Keep Your Bike Running

So, you’ve got your bike and your gear—great! But don’t forget, motorcycle ownership isn’t a one-and-done deal. Here’s what you’ll be paying regularly:

 

Fuel Costs

 

Motorcycles are generally fuel-efficient, but how much you spend depends on the bike and how often you ride.

 

• Smaller bikes (250cc – 500cc): Around 3-5L per 100km
• Larger bikes (600cc – 1000cc): Around 5-8L per 100km

 

With petrol prices hovering around $2 per litre, expect to spend $20 – $60 per week if you’re a frequent rider.

 

Servicing & Maintenance

 

Routine servicing keeps your bike running smoothly and prevents costly breakdowns. Here’s what to budget for:

 

• Basic service (oil change, chain adjustment): $150 – $300
• Major service (brakes, filters, spark plugs): $300 – $800
• Tyre replacement (every 10,000km or so): $300 – $600 per set
• Battery replacement (every 3-5 years): $100 – $300

 

Regular maintenance can cost between $500 and $1,500 per year, depending on your bike and how hard you ride it.

 

Pro Tip: If you’re handy with tools, learn how to do minor maintenance yourself—oil changes, chain lubrication, and brake pad swaps can save you hundreds over time.

Insurance & Registration: The Hidden Costs

Motorcycle insurance varies wildly based on your age, experience, bike type, and riding history. Here’s what you’re looking at:

 

• Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance: Included in your rego but varies by state (around $200 – $500 per year)
• Third-Party Property: Covers damage to other vehicles ($100 – $500 per year)
• Comprehensive Insurance: Covers damage to your bike as well ($500 – $2,000+ per year)

 

Registration fees also depend on your state, but expect to pay between $300 and $600 per year to keep your bike road-legal.

Extras: The Costs You Might Not Expect

Beyond the basics, there are a few sneaky expenses that can creep up on new riders:

 

• Rider Training & Licence Fees: Around $500 – $1,000, depending on your state and whether you take private lessons
• Storage: If you don’t have a garage, renting space can cost $50 – $150 per month
• Mods & Accessories: Custom exhaust, new handlebars, phone mounts—these little upgrades add up quickly!

The Bottom Line: How Much Does It REALLY Cost?

Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you’ll need to budget for in your first year of motorcycle ownership:

 

Expense	Estimated Cost
Motorcycle (new or used)	$3,000 – $15,000+
Riding Gear	$800 – $3,000
Fuel (annual)	$1,000 – $3,000
Maintenance & Servicing	$500 – $1,500
Insurance & Registration	$500 – $2,500
Training & Licence	$500 – $1,000
Extras (storage, mods, accessories)	Varies

 

Total Estimated First-Year Costs: $6,000 – $22,000+

 

Motorcycling isn’t the cheapest hobby, but for those who truly love it, the freedom, adventure, and joy of riding make every dollar worth it.

 

Whether you’re shopping for your first bike, upgrading your gear, or looking for top-quality motorcycle parts and accessories, head over to Blygo—Australia’s go-to source for everything motorcycle-related.

 

Now, all that’s left to do? Gear up, hit the road, and enjoy the ride.