When you are looking at investing in a luxury bike, it’s essential to be clear about what kind of riding you will be indulging in — speed riding or cruising. If you are looking at super bikes for speed riding, the Japanese provide the best ones in this category.

Honda, Suzuki and Yamaha offer statement bikes that are phenomenally fast — they require powerful skill as well as fitness to ride them. These bikes are best utilised on the track and not really meant to be enjoyed on city roads. They are ridden in a low, crouching position. In the event of an accident, these bikes are designed to protect both the rider, as well as the pillion rider.

As far as cruising bikes are concerned, the Americans win hands down. Harley Davidson, Ducati, Triumph and Bullet are some of the formidable names in this category. These bikes provide an enjoyable ride and usually, those aspiring for them are not looking to be flamboyant — they just desire a good riding experience.

Patrons of such bikes are usually between 30 and 40 years of age, whereas it’s the young guns who like speed bikes.

Whatever be your choice, before taking out your bike on long rides, get a good feel of it by riding it on open roads. It’s imperative to ride safely and always don protective gear. Closed shoes, a sturdy helmet, protective jackets and riding pants are an absolute must.

The writer is the business head of Harley Davidson, Chennai