Buy a Used Motorcycle

Buying motorcycles on line has never been easier, but there are a few pitfalls to trap the unwary. Here are some pointers to get you started :

Know what you want!

It seems obvious, but the first thing to bear in mind when searching for used motorcycles is to decide first which one you want! - A race replica might be just the job for a weekend blast, but might not be so suitable for travelling to and from work every day, or for a spot of long distance touring. That said, most manufacturers produce motorbikes which offer comfort, reliability AND performance, so finding a motorcycle to exactly suit your needs should be a straightforward process.

Remember, if you are a learner you will need a 125cc bike. You will also need to have carried out your Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) first. See here for information on motorcycle training and tests …

Do your research

When you’ve chosen the style of bike you want, spend some time researching different makes and models. There are numerous web resources to help narrow down your choice. Most modern motorbikes are reliable and well constructed, and often the final decision comes down to personal preference or brand loyalty, but it’s always worth getting a few opinions first.

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, spend some time checking out used motorcycle prices on eBay.

Don’t get caught out!

Though the vast majority of sellers are honest, it is always best to err on the side of caution. Before placing a bid use your ‘Ask the seller a question’ link – An honest seller should have no objection to answering your questions. If at all possible, it’s always best to view the motorbike before placing your bid – that way you can hear it run and check it out thoroughly. Any honest seller should have no problem in you checking out their motorcycle before you place a bid.

Always inspect the documentation too. The seller should have the V5 Vehicle Registration Document to hand and, where applicable, the MOT Certificate. Again, if these documents are not present and correct without a very valid reason, just walk away.

For added peace of mind eBay now offer (in conjunction with HPI) a Vehicle Status Report which offers excellent value for money. The reports allows you to check if the bike you are bidding on is reported as stolen, has been an insurance ‘write off’, has any loans owing on it, or has any mileage discrepancies recorded on the National Mileage Register. You can find out more about eBay’s Vehicle Status Reports here ...

Set your budget

Remember to factor in the cost of motorcycle insurance and any service or repair work your new bike might need. Even if you’re certain you’re buying a ‘gem’ it’s always worth getting it checked over by a mechanic just to be sure. Don’t forget that a pair of tyres and a full service at a motorcycle dealer could set you back several hundred pounds, so bargain wisely and don’t be too eager to part with your cash without checking the bike out thoroughly first. If you are in any way unsure of your mechanical capabilities take a knowledgeable friend with you. In the excitement of buying a bike, a second opinion is helpful, if only to stop you getting too enthusiastic!

Now you are ready to bid!

You’ve found a motorbike that ticks all the right boxes and asked all the right questions so now it’s time to bid! – many eBay’ers still love to wait until the last possible moment to place their bid in the hope that they will win the item at a lower price, but I prefer to place my bids earlier in the auction and at the highest price I am prepared to pay. Remember eBay’s ‘proxy’ system will bid for you ensuring that you remain the highest bidder unless a higher bid is received. Why not wait until the last minute? –simply because you don’t have to! – If you bid in the closing seconds of an auction the temptation is always there to bid more and more, but if you’ve set your budget first you know you won’t pay any more than you’d planned.

Good luck with your new bike!

© 2008 used-bikes.co.uk