Are you in the market for a motorcycle? You can visit several dealerships, like Harley-Davidson, Ducati, Honda, or Suzuki, or private sellers and test various bikes out before sealing the deal. You can also opt for the more convenient route and buy a motorcycle online from the comfort of your home. If you choose to do so, here are some tips to give you the best chance at a seamless purchasing experience.
The Benefits of Buying a Motorcycle Over a Car
- Cheaper Than a Car: The average price of a new car is well over $47,000, according to Kelley Blue Book. But you can get a new motorcycle for around $5,000 to $10,000. If you’re looking to purchase a higher-end bike, you’ll spend more. Still, it could be several thousand less than what you’ll pay for a new vehicle off the lot.
- May Save You Money: Most motorcycles get excellent gas mileage, and their tanks hold far less fuel than cars. So, you’ll save a sizable amount on fuel costs, which is a significant advantage they have over other vehicles.
- Easier to Fix: the maintenance and repairs you’ll need on motorcycles are relatively simple. But with cars, service could be very complex and expensive, depending on the make, model, mileage and service interval or repair you’re having done.
- Last Longer: Motorcycles generally last longer than cars, but they also hold their resale value. This is good news if you plan to buy a bike that you’ll hold on to for some time before you sell it off for a more updated model.
Things to Consider Before You Buy a Motorcycle
Before starting your online search for the perfect motorcycle, keep these factors in mind.
Identify Your Needs
If you don’t yet have a particular bike in mind, do your research to create a list of options that fit your needs. Of course, it should also be ideal for your intended use, whether it’s cruising around the neighborhood or taking road trips with your pals. Keep in mind that, depending on your location, you’ll also likely need a separate motorcycle license if you don’t already have one.
Set A Budget
Take a look at your spending plan to determine how much of a motorcycle you can afford. But if you plan to pay cash, you can jot down a maximum purchase price that’s slightly below your budget and move on to the next step.
New vs. Used?
Do you prefer a new or used motorcycle? There are benefits and drawbacks to each, and it’s up to you to decide if you want to pay a premium or go with a more affordable option that could be just as reliable if you select the right bike.
Find One That Fits You
Not all motorcycles are the same in terms of fit. So, you want to do your due diligence to avoid buying a bike with a weight or seat height that doesn’t quite work for you.
Decide on the Type of Motorcycle You Want
Refer to the original list you created of motorcycles that could work for you. Narrow it down so you can spend less time when you’re ready to buy and begin conducting an online search for the perfect bike.
Tips on How to Buy a Motorcycle Online
Below are some tips to help facilitate your online search for a new or used motorcycle.
Do Your Research
Don’t just settle for the first motorcycle that gets your attention. Dig a bit deeper to find out if the title is clean, so you won’t spend a fortune on a bike you can’t actually enjoy (or have rights to).
Use Common Sense
If the seller is offering an irresistible deal on a motorcycle you want, it may not be a scam. Still, you must use common sense and steer clear if something about the listing doesn’t sit right with you.
Even if you miss what you deem to be the deal of a lifetime, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Another tip: Right-click on the images included in the listing to confirm and search them in Google to confirm there aren’t duplicates or stock photos. If there’s a match, you’re likely dealing with a scam artist offering a non-existent motorcycle.
If Possible, Get the Motorcycle Inspected
Ask the seller to have the motorcycle inspected by a local dealer or mechanic you choose, whether it’s new or used. You’ll know that the inspector is unbiased and that the results aren’t subjective. And don’t forget to ask for multiple images of the bike to ensure they coincide with the listing and accurately reflect its current condition.
Read Feedback About the Seller/Platform
View online reviews on the seller from past and current customers (if applicable). Doing so will provide you valuable insight into how they do business and if they can be trusted. Also, analyze the platform and peruse feedback to determine if it’s reputable. Finally, if you have relatives or friends who’ve done business with the seller or platform, solicit their advice to help you make an informed decision.
Buy/Get a Loan from a Trusted and Reliable Platform
Securing a motorcycle loan with competitive terms is just as important as finding a good deal on a new bike. Start by shopping around and comparing multiple loan offers before deciding which is best for you.
If you already have a motorcycle loan and want to lower your monthly payment, refinancing could be ideal.
