If you love motorcycles like I do, you’re always on the lookout for your next exciting ride on two wheels. With an empty garage and some extra money, you might find yourself browsing ads, checking out helmets, and taking lots of test rides before you know it. This hobby can be so exciting that you can’t get enough of it, finding yourself with lots of open tabs on your computer and salespeople calling you all the time.
With so many choices out there to find the right used motorcycle, it can be hard to know where to start. Even though buying online has made it easier, there are still some risks to watch out for, like bikes with broken engines or clutches that smoke, which you want to steer clear of.
Lots of people in the US really like motorcycles. In 2021, they bought around 550,000 of them, which is more than they bought in the years before that. In 2022, the motorcycle industry made about $8 billion, showing that it keeps on growing.
I’ve gained valuable insights into the top platforms where people buy or sell motorcycles. Additionally, I’ve curated indispensable advice to ensure your journey remains smooth, steering you away from any unexpected obstacles along the road.
Top 6 Websites to Buy Used Motorcycles
Where to Buy Used Motorcycles?
Dealerships: Getting a bike from a trusted seller gives you peace of mind because they offer warranties, might help you with financing, and have a good range of used bikes to choose from. But sometimes, the cost might be more than what you’d pay in a private sale.
Private Sales: When you buy something straight from someone selling it, you might be able to talk about the price and get it for less money. The buyer needs to check if there’s a warranty for the bike, but there might not be many choices. It’s also up to the buyer to make sure the bike is in good condition and legal to use.
Online Platforms (eBay, Craigslist, Cycle Trader): These websites offer lots of different things for sale and a chance to talk to people who are selling their own stuff. They offer competitive pricing and a vast inventory to choose from. However, it’s important to watch out for scams so you don’t get fooled, and sometimes it can be tricky to check everything thoroughly.
Motorcycle Store (Dealership) vs. Private Seller | A Comparative Guide
| Feature |
Motorcycle Dealership |
Private Seller |
| After-Sales Support |
Support, service centers, and sometimes return policies are available. |
With little to no after-sales support; the transaction ends with the sale. |
| Condition |
Motorcycles are inspected, certified, and often come with a warranty. |
Condition varies; more due diligence is required to assess the motorcycle’s state. |
| Financing |
Financing options are readily available. |
Payment is usually required in full, upfront. |
| Paperwork |
Dealerships handle most of the paperwork, including registration and taxes. |
The buyer is typically responsible for handling all necessary paperwork and registration. |
| Pricing |
Generally higher, but comes with warranties, return policies, and financing options. |
Often lower, but prices are firm and sold as-is without warranties. |
| Selection |
The vast inventory of new and used motorcycles. |
Limited to what the seller owns. |
| Trustworthiness |
Reputations are online; dealerships strive for customer satisfaction and repeat business. |
Trustworthiness can vary widely; it’s essential to vet the seller and inspect the motorcycle thoroughly. |
1. Cycle Trader
Cycle Trader is one of the largest online marketplaces for buying and selling motorcycles, both new and used. It offers a wide range of options and allows you to filter your search based on various criteria
Types of Sale Motorcycles: Classic / Vintage, Competition, Cruiser, Custom, Dirt Bike, Dual Sport, Electric Bicycle, Electric Motorcycle, Mini & Pocket, Moped, Mx, Other, Scooter, Sport Touring, Sportbike, Standard, Super Moto, Touring, Trailer, Trike.
Search Options: Cycle Trader allows you to search for motorcycles based on various criteria such as make, model, location, and price range.
Advanced Search Options: You can further refine your search based on dealer vs. private seller, bike condition, and mileage.
Basic Package: The cost is a one-time fee of $14.95. Can post up to 4 pictures. Ad is live for two weeks.
Enhanced Package: The cost is a one-time fee of $29.95. Can post up to 20 pictures. The ad is live for six weeks. Includes a YouTube video posting option.
Best Package: The cost is a one-time fee of $49.95. Can post up to 50 pictures. The ad is live for 12 weeks.
Listing: Paid
Traffic: 3M
Available On: Android | iOS
Pros:
- Extensive inventory with various makes and models
- User-friendly interface for easy searching and filtering
- Provides helpful resources for buyers, such as reviews and buying guides
Cons:
- Some listings may be outdated or inaccurate
- Limited options for negotiation compared to private sellers
- May require additional fees for advanced search features or premium listings
2. Motorcycle.com
Motorcycle.com is a cool website for people who love motorcycles. They talk about different bikes, give reviews, and share news about everything related to riding motorcycles.
You can also use the site to buy and sell motorcycles, parts, and cool accessories. It’s like an online store where motorcycle lovers can find what they need. You can browse listings by make and model, price range, and location, and connect with sellers through the site’s messaging system.
Motorcycle.com also offers a range of helpful resources for buyers, including a buyer’s guide, motorcycle insurance information, and a payment calculator.
Comprehensive Reviews: Motorcycle.com provides detailed reviews, photos, and videos of new and used motorcycles to help you make an informed purchase.
Search Options: You can search for motorcycles based on make, model, year, and location.
Traffic: 887.5K
Listing: Free / Paid
3. eBay Motors
eBay is a big website where people can buy and sell all kinds of vehicles, like motorcycles, whether they’re brand new or used. With more than 170 million people who buy things, eBay is one of the biggest and most trusted places to shop online.
You can find lots of different motorcycles from everywhere in the country on eBay. They have all the famous ones, like the ones lots of people like, and also some really special ones that are unique or customized.
Whether you’ve been riding for a long time or you’re just starting out, eBay is a good website to find a motorcycle that’s right for you and fits your budget.
Vast Selection: eBay Motors offers a vast selection of new and used motorcycles from dealerships and private sellers all over the USA.
Bidding System: You can bid on motorcycles on eBay, potentially getting a great deal on the bike of your dreams.
Listing: Paid (The listing fee depends on the package chosen, and ranges from $19 – $79.)
Available On: Android | iOS
Pros:
- Wide selection of motorcycles from various sellers.
- Auction-style bidding potentially leads to lower prices.
- Offers buyer protection and a resolution process for disputes.
Cons:
- Possibility of scams or misrepresented listings.
- Challenges with shipping arrangements for long-distance purchases.
- Competitive bidding may drive up final prices for popular motorcycles.
4. Craigslist
Craigslist is a widely used classified ads platform connecting buyers with local sellers. On Craigslist, you can look for motorcycles by brand, how much they cost, where they are, and other things to find the right one for you.
When buying a motorcycle on Craigslist, be careful because the website doesn’t take responsibility for any scams or dishonest actions.
Make sure to meet the seller in a public spot, check the motorcycle really well before buying it, and watch out for deals that seem too good to be real.
Lower Prices: Craigslist offers lower prices on used motorcycles compared to dealerships.
Risks: Buying from private sellers on Craigslist can be risky, so it’s important to take necessary precautions such as meeting in a public place and inspecting the motorcycle before purchase.
Listing: Paid
Traffic: 154.5M
Available On: iOS
Pros:
- A large, diverse selection of motorcycles from private sellers.
- Room for negotiation, potentially leading to lower prices.
- Direct communication with sellers for personalized details and inquiries.
Cons:
- Higher likelihood of encountering scams or dishonest listings.
- No guarantee or protection for buyers.
- Limited search features and potential lack of transparency in some cases.
5. Cycle Soup
Cycle Soup is a website where people can buy and sell both brand-new and pre-owned motorcycles. Cycle Soup has lots of useful stuff for people who want to buy motorcycles, like ways to pay for them, get insurance prices, and figure out how much it costs to ship them.
Cycle Soup’s website is easy to use because it looks nice and modern, making it simple to find what you’re looking for. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been riding for a while, Cycle Soup is a good website to begin looking for a new motorcycle.
User-Friendly Interface: Cycle Soup offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to search for motorcycles based on make, model, location, and price range.
Financing Options: Cycle Soup offers financing options.
Listing: Free
Traffic: 7.1K
6. RumbleOn
Rumble On is an online marketplace for consumers. Customers can sell their motorcycles online using this service. The listing site welcomes all kinds of vehicles, making it easy for anyone to sell their car, truck, motorcycle, or any other type of vehicle online.
The owners of the website are currently running a special campaign where they offer cash for vehicles being listed on their platform. This initiative provides a swift cash offer in return for a quick sale of your vehicle.
The website offers different ways for you to sell your vehicle. Listing your vehicle on the website is easy and doesn’t cost anything. Your listing will be seen by millions of people who visit the website.
Listing: Free
Traffic: 101.9K
Pros:
- Simplified buying process with online tools and financing options
- Offers a 3-day or 150-mile Money-Back Guarantee
- Nationwide delivery services for added convenience
Cons:
- Limited selection compared to larger platforms
- Higher prices and fees for services like trade-ins or extended warranties
- Customer support and communication may be slower in some cases
How to Buy a Used Motorcycle Step-by-Step
1. Determine Your Budget
Before you go ahead and buy a motorcycle, it’s really important to set a clear budget first. It’s important to make sure the money you plan to spend on a motorcycle matches what you can afford and want. Though motorcycles typically fall within the price range of $4,000 to $20,000, it’s crucial to think about the particular brand, model, and any extra features that can impact the cost.
2. Choose Your Preferred Motorcycle Style
When you’re picking out the kind of motorcycle you like best, think about all the different choices available to match what you enjoy when you ride. Popular choices among motorcycle enthusiasts include cruisers, dual-sport motorcycles, scooters, and enduros.
To make the right choice, consider how you plan to use the motorcycle, how comfortable it feels to ride, and what features you really want. Deciding on the ideal motorcycle for you involves thinking about what matters most: whether you love traveling far distances, exploring off-road, or just cruising around town. Learning about each type of bike will help you find the one that suits your riding style best.
3. Explore Potential Places to Buy Motorcycles
Whether purchasing from a dealer, online platform, or private seller, thorough research is essential to ensure reliability and trustworthiness. Even though buying online is easy, be careful of scams and put safety first.
Before making a decision, make sure to check out the seller, double-check the listing, and ask for more details if needed. Take your time and stay alert to steer clear of scams.
4. Visit Used Motorcycle Stores or Online Platforms
When searching for a used motorcycle, visit dealerships or online motorcycle-selling sites to find the ideal style at the best price. Expect decent used motorcycle values ranging from $4,000 to $10,000.
Prioritize inspecting the bike’s condition and ask for maintenance records. An informed approach will lead you to a budget-friendly and reliable ride.
5. Check Title History, Registration, and State Inspection
Before you seal the deal on buying a used motorcycle, make sure you have all the paperwork sorted out and in order. Before you decide on buying a motorcycle, ask for a report on its history to learn more about where it’s been and if there are any problems you should know about. If you have the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of the motorcycle, you can obtain its history report from websites like Cycle Trader, VinFreeCheck, or VinCheck.
Make sure the registration for the motorcycle is current and ask about any accidents or problems with the title in the past. It’s important to have all the facts before making a decision. Don’t forget to check the state inspection records to confirm that the motorcycle meets all safety requirements. This step ensures you’re getting a bike that’s safe to ride.
6. Secure Motorcycle Financing
If paying upfront isn’t an option, securing financing for your motorcycle purchase is viable. You can find different ways to get a loan for your motorcycle from places like dealerships, manufacturers, banks, credit unions, and online lenders. You don’t need a certain credit score to get a motorcycle loan, but having a good or excellent score could help you get lower interest rates and better loan terms.
Having a higher credit score usually means you’ll get a lower interest rate, which can save you money on interest over the whole time you’re paying back the loan. Make sure to check out different places and compare their rates and terms when looking for a motorcycle loan. This way, you can find the best option that works well with what you can afford.
7. Complete the Sale
As you get closer to buying your motorcycle, take your time to carefully read and sign all the important papers, like the sales agreement and loan terms. It’s important to understand everything before you finalize the deal. Take a close look at all the details in the paperwork and ask the dealer any questions you have, so you don’t come across any unexpected surprises later on.
Before you start riding, carefully check the bike one last time to make sure it’s in the condition you want. This will help make sure you have a great, safe, and easy time owning it.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is it time to sell or give up a motorcycle?
You can keep riding a motorcycle until it stops running, or until you feel like getting a newer one. Some people like to keep buying more motorcycles and building up a collection, without ever getting rid of any of them.
Why is high mileage not a big deal anymore?
Nowadays, having a motorcycle with a lot of miles on it isn’t as much of a problem as it once was, and there are a few reasons why that’s the case. One reason is that motorcycles these days are built with tougher parts that can stay in good shape for a longer time. Another reason is that people who own motorcycles tend to take better care of them, making sure they’re regularly serviced and looked after. This can help the bikes last longer too. Lastly, because motorcycle prices are high right now, it’s harder to come across bikes with low mileage.
How long should I keep a motorcycle before I buy a new one?
It really comes down to what you want and like. Some folks enjoy getting a new motorcycle every couple of years, while others prefer sticking with the same bike for a long time. In the end, it’s all about what you decide when it comes to buying a new motorcycle.
What is the safest way to sell a motorcycle?
- Trade it in at a dealership
- Sell it to a private buyer
- Sell it to a motorcycle dealer
- Sell it at an auction
What is a good second-hand motorcycle for a beginner?
The best second-hand motorcycle for a beginner depends on your needs and preferences. But my suggestion is to go for a motorcycle with an engine size of under 500 cc. Doing this can make it easier for you to learn the basics of riding without feeling too much power from the bike.