Buying Guide
7 easy steps when buying a bike privately
Now that the car and house payments are manageable, the education funds for the kids have been topped up and you finally have some extra money to spend on a hobby. What do you do? Buy a motorcycle of course, which not only promises years of fun, but can also act as quick transport when the roads are jammed and you have to meet a deadline.
As a first time buyer though, buying a new bike may seem like overkill. Unlike cars, it takes a lot of time to get used to owning and riding a motorcycle so the best step is to buy a used one first. Yes, buying used takes a bit more effort than walking into a showroom and picking up a new bike, but savvy shoppers can find great deals and unique rides in the second hand market. The tips we present apply to anyone who is buying a used bike, so whether you’re looking for your first bike or are adding to your collection, these tips should prove to be very handy.
1. PICK THE TYPE OF MOTORCYCLE
Are you interested in a laid back cruiser, an aggressive sportbike, an easy-to-ride scooter, or maybe a touring bike?
2. CHOOSE BETWEEN A DEALER OR A PRIVATE OWNER
Buying your used motorcycle will largely depend on your budget, if you are a first time buyerit is more economical to buy a used bike
3. INSPECT THE BIKE YOU ARE INTERESTED IN
Going over a bike’s mechanical condition could save your money on maintenance
4. TAKE IT FOR A TEST RIDE
The beauty of buying a used motorcycle is that unlike new bikes, you’re more likely to be able to test ride the motorcycle in question and get a better idea of whether or not it’s a good fit for you. It’s a little harder if the bike is new as the dealer is likely to worry about you dropping the machine or not being able to handle it properly.
5. CONSIDER SERVICE HISTORY
Ask the seller if they have service records, as a well-maintained bike will save you money down the line find out if it has been regularly maintained
6. IS THERE ROOM TO NEGOTIATE?
If you’re looking at used motorcycles, chances are that you’re budget-sensitive or a first time buyer and don’t want to spend money on a bike that will depreciate immediately
7. DON’T GET TOO ATTACHED WHEN SHOPPING AROUND
There are plenty of used bikes in Bike Trader, and there is no reason to commit to a motorcycle that isn’t just right for you. Shop around, inspect bikes in contention, and if you’re serious about one, take it for a spin to make sure it’s the right one for you