When you’re out on the open road, you’re likely not thinking about where you—or your bike, for that matter—came from. You’re just focused on whatever’s ahead.
That's why, for many riders, the practicality and variety offered by the used motorcycle market is extremely appealing. Still, for those looking to buy, the ins and outs of how to buy a used motorcycle, and do so for a good value, can seem a bit daunting.
In this guide to buying a used bike, we’ll guide you through the essential steps, so you can enter the marketplace well-prepared to find the right ride for you.
A used motorcycle can be a great entry point for new motorcycle riders. While some of the reasons can be obvious, others may not. For one, used motorcycle buyers can rely on a huge range of reviews to hear others’ (including experts’) opinions on bikes of interest. If you’re looking into something from even just a year or two back, you’ll be able to gain a huge amount of insights from others’ experiences.
Of course, you may not be interested in or need to rely on popular opinion on recent models. You might have something particular in mind already. Luckily, another advantage of buying a used motorcycle is that you may be able to find a rare or vintage model that is no longer being produced. This can be a great opportunity for collectors or enthusiasts looking for a unique addition to their collection.
Similarly, buying a used motorcycle can also be a great way to get a bike that has already been customized or modified. Many riders enjoy customizing their motorcycles to suit their individual style and needs, and buying a used bike that has already been modified can save you time and money.
And finally, another reason to go for used for your first (or next) motorcycle is the price. Pre-owned motorcycles can be a less expensive option for most buyers.
If any of the options above sounds right for you, you’re in the right place. Follow these steps to narrow your search for the right used bike.
The first step in buying a used motorcycle is to determine your budget. Perhaps you’ve gone the route of used motorcycles in the first place because the budget you have in mind is best spent on a pre-owned bike. Others should consider how much they want to spend and how much they can realistically afford.
When deciding on your budget, it's important to keep in mind that the cost of a used motorcycle can vary greatly depending on its age, condition, and mileage. It’s also important to consider factors such as monthly payment, payment terms and available financing options. Plus, in addition to the cost of the motorcycle itself, you'll also need to factor in additional costs such as insurance, registration, and maintenance. These costs can add up quickly, so it's important to budget for them accordingly.
Once you have an idea of your budget in mind, consider the kind of riding you hope to do and the style of bike best suited for your needs:
With these styles and your own habits in mind, you can get started with the hunt for the right motorcycle model. Browsing the H-D1 Marketplace is a great place to start your used motorcycle search so youBy searching for reviews, you can get a feel for available models that match the kind of motorcycle you’re after.
After you have zeroed in on one—or even a few—models whose style and design you enjoy, survey some sale listings across various years to get a sense of which options might match your budget.
The age and mileage of a motorcycle can impact its overall condition and performance. A bike with low mileage may seem like a good deal, but it's important to remember that regular maintenance and upkeep are still necessary. When viewing a bike in person, be sure to check the odometer and see if it matches with the number given by the seller. If you see all zeroes on the meter or a different number, the actual mile count may be unknown - indicating either a change in value or a potentially untrustworthy seller.
Requesting a motorcycle history report using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can give you important information about the bike's past, including any accidents or repairs it has undergone. Of course, this history is not always available, particularly with private sellers. Nevertheless, with the VIN, you will be able to see the title history, including whether or not there is a lien on the bike.
You may also check for Safety Recall Information on the H-C.com website using VIN.
Just about every purchase of a bike—especially a used one—should include a thorough in-person inspection. You need to know that the bike is everything the seller says it is. And you need to confirm whether it’s a good fit for you. Here’s how.
So, the bike has passed the initial inspection. Now it’s time for the ultimate test—the test ride. Before you take the bike out for your inaugural (and hopefully not your last) ride, though, you should let it run and give it a listen while it warms up. Make sure it sounds clean—no knocking, no rattling, nothing untoward. As you listen, check the exhaust: blue and white smoke can indicate issues from burning oil or leaking coolant, both of which can necessitate costly repairs.
If it’s all good, then it’s time to hit the road and see how it feels. The bike shouldn’t just fit well and ride comfortably. You should also be able to easily handle and maneuver it over the course of a ride. Also, you should (safely, of course) get a feel for the performance of the bike—does it deliver the power or agility you’re after?
Although you may know from the first acceleration that this is the bike for you, feel free to take your time with the bike to feel confident in a potential purchase. And if you’re buying a motorcycle from a private seller, and something’s either not sitting right or you’re feeling unsure, don’t hesitate to request that the bike is inspected by an outside mechanic before you buy.
If you’ve taken all of the recommended steps above and you’ve fallen in love with the bike, then you may have found the right used motorcycle for you. Contact the seller for more information on how you can make the purchase and whether there is room for negotiation.
The fast-expanding H-D1™ Marketplace makes it easy for you to get on the road with an extensive inventory of pre-owned bikes both in your area and across the country. But it’s not just quantity and quality that makes it easy, it’s all the ways you can search and discover your dream ride:
And if you have additoinal questions on making a used motircyle purchase, visit your local Harley-Davidson® dealer.