| What to pay for the new or used motorcycle you | | | | as with automobiles because of greater engine |
| are looking at? | | | | durability. As with buying a car, check to see how |
| Determining an accurate value when looking to buy a | | | | well the original owner maintained the bike, and |
| motorcycle can be a tough challenge sometimes. | | | | request detailed service records. |
| Brand new motorcycles usually have a set value | | | | Physical condition |
| which is dictated by the manufacturer. Used | | | | Scratches and dings are fairly common on used |
| motorcycles have many variables that come into play | | | | motorcycles. The overall appearance and total |
| when calculating a true worth. There are a few | | | | amount of damage is what is important. It is usually |
| major things that can drive what a motorcycle is | | | | very clear by just looking at a bike how well it has |
| valued at, and they are listed below: | | | | been taken care of. |
| Year, make, and model | | | | Market conditions |
| New motorcycles will have a high price tag compared | | | | The economy can affect the value of a motorcycle, |
| to an older version that is a few years old. Some | | | | especially with gas prices on the rise. The values of |
| Harleys, specialty bikes, and antiques are exceptions | | | | used motorcycles have gone up recently because of |
| to this rule, with values that generally increase over | | | | the high demand. |
| time. | | | | Time of year |
| Style of motorcycle | | | | Used motorcycles sometimes sell for more in spring |
| Different types of motorcycles bring different prices. | | | | or summer. Try to purchase in the winter time, and |
| Cruisers, sport bikes, dirt bikes, and custom choppers | | | | sell in the right before or during spring to take |
| are the general categories and should only be | | | | advantage of the upcoming riding season. |
| compared within each genre of bike. | | | | Demographics |
| Engine size | | | | Motorcycles will be valued higher in some parts of |
| Bigger engine sizes generally carry a larger price tag | | | | the country because of climate patterns and traffic |
| and insurance cost, no matter what the type of | | | | considerations. Look in the local paper and go look at |
| motorcycle. You can compare buying a larger sport | | | | a few similar models to get an idea of an average |
| bike with a fast sports car. Expect the insurance man | | | | asking price in your area. |
| to want big $$$ to insure it, because they assume | | | | Above all, do your homework and research and plan |
| you are going to be driving fast (surely not!) | | | | what you are going to buy. Proper due diligence is |
| Overall mileage | | | | important for your safety and to get a good deal on |
| High mileage on motorcycles isn't as much of an issue | | | | your new motorcycle purchase. Happy riding! |