How to Buy a Used Motorcycle

Every day, many used motorcycles change hands. There are more places than ever to consider and purchase used motorcycles. These steps can help you make a good choice when shopping for a used motorcycle--

Tips for buying a used motorcycle

1. The first order of business is to decide what type of used motorcycle you want. Off-road motorcycles are built specifically for dirt racing and riding on unpaved roads and tracks. Street motorcycles are good at taking you where you need to go around town. Bigger motorcycles with powerful engines are necessary for traveling fast on highways and freeways. Knowing what you want before you start shopping will save you much time and effort.
2. Next, try to find a reliable source for buying a used motorcycle. You can find used motorcycles at dealers, and the advantage of buying from a dealer is that you often receive or can buy a warranty with the motorcycle. This will enable you to have it serviced if something goes wrong. Also, if the motorcycle turns out to be a complete lemon, you will have less trouble returning it to a dealer than you would returning it to an individual. Dealers, however, may charge more than the used motorcycle is worth.
3. You can also buy a used motorcycle from an individual. There are plenty of resources, both in print and online, that offer classified ads for used motorcycles. In a case where you are buying a motorcycle from a stranger, you are going to have to use old-fashioned intuition to determine whether the person is dealing fairly with you. You can also check out the seller’s reputation by asking other motorcyclists about him.
4. If you are unsure of the price you should be paying for the used model you want, consult with friends and other motorcycle enthusiasts. Also, compare the price a particular dealer or individual is asking with the prices for the same model of used motorcycle asked by other dealers and individuals. The advantage of the Internet is that you can compare numerous ads for the same model of motorcycle. Comparing the ads should allow you to determine a fair price range.
5. Give the used motorcycle you are considering a test drive, if possible. If you are actually looking at a motorcycle in person, then there is no reason the dealer or the individual selling it should not allow you to test drive the bike. However, if you buy a used motorcycle via an Internet auction, you will not have an opportunity to test it first. In this case, make sure you have a grace period of a day or two after the receipt of the bike to test it out.

Caution

Motorcycles, like cars, require registration with a state department of motor vehicles. Before you buy a used motorcycle, make sure the seller has a current registration for the bike in his or her name. This almost guarantees the motorcycle is not stolen.

Where to Buy a Used Motorcycle

You can shop for used motorcycles at these online sources—

Search or browse CycleTrader.com for used motorcycles by make. Also find motorcycle trailers and other accessories.

PowerSports Network displays the photographs and details of hundreds of used motorcycles for sale.

Bid for the used motorcycle you want at eBay Motors.

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• Sell A Used Car
• How to Trade In a Car
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