Bike Trader
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How to buy a new motorcycle
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We buy bikes for performance, style and – if we're honest – what they say about the rider.
But before you look at any bike, think about what you will use it for and what your budget is.
If you'rere going to carry a passenger make sure they like the seat or you’ll be going solo. Don’t forget to include insurance, servicing and replacement tyre costs when you do your sums. Use your head before you buy a bike. But never forget that you want to enjoy riding. Sometimes your heart is right.
Why buy new? Knowing that nobody has abused your baby is a pretty good reason to buy new, and you will probably get at least two years unlimited mileage warranty from the manufacturer. But you’ll pay for these benefits as depreciation is greatest in the first year of ownership.
Where to buy?
What bike to buy? For many people, buying a car is about as exciting as buying a new fridge. But most bikers are passionate about motorcycles – and that means ‘cheap’ and ‘practical’ are not always top of our wish list. To help you decide what is right for you, take a look at the bikes in these categories. The categories do overlap, and there is nothing to stop you going touring on a custom, or commuting on a supersports.
All-rounder Naked, Adventure, Commuter... They may not be as focussed on speed and handling as Supersports, or as comfortable as a dedicated long distance tourer, but these are bikes that can do it all.
Triumph Speed Triple
View Bike Trader's bike reviews to find out more
Custom Laid-back style, lashings of chrome, low seat, forward footpegs... and a very big engine are all part of the custom look.
Harley-Davidson Softail Cross Bones
Learner/Lightweight Learner riders under 21-years old are limited to a 125, but that doesn’t have to restrict the fun. Lightweight motorcycles and scooters make great commuters.
Suzuki RZ125 VanVan
Sport Tourer The best of both worlds wrapped up in one neat package. Sports Tourers fill the niche between full-on Supersports and full-spec Tourer.
Kawasaki 1400GTR
Supersports Fully faired, performance engine, top suspension, stunning brakes. Think race rep and you’ll get the picture.
Suzuki GSX-R600
Tourer Designed for crossing continents in comfort – and with an engine big and powerful enough to let you do it two-up and at any speed you choose. Comfortable seating position and dedicated luggage system is standard.
BMW R 1200 RT
Research Check out our bike reviews on the motorcycles you are interested. Read road tests, talk to knowledgeable friends and do a bit of research on the web – key in ‘problems’ and the make/model you are interested in and see what you can find. Don’t worry too much if you find a few negative comments on an enthusiasts’ website. Some people just love to hate...
Phoning the dealer You can find motorcycle dealers in your area – or even all dealers nationwide – by using our really useful search engine (five valves per cylinder and 15,000rpm). Phone around dealers in your area and check if what you have is stock, or the expected delivery time. Ask to speak to a sales person, not the spares department. Make a note of the sales person’s name and arrange a time for a visit so they know you are serious.
Test ride Ask for a test ride. You will need to bring your driving licence (both parts if it is a photo licence) and ID. Only major retailers will have a demonstrator fleet, but other dealers may have a second-hand model you can test. Try other bikes that fit your criteria – you might find that your first choice isn’t the bike that you like best after all.
Haggle Motorcycle dealers are salesmen and they like haggling as much as a carpet tout in a Marrakech backstreet, so you won’t insult them by making an offer under list price. You just might have to work a little to get the best deal. Make sure that you are negotiating on the On The Road price – the OTR price includes all those little extra charges that can add up to a lot. Let them know if you are interested in a different make or visiting a different dealer – nobody wants to lose a sale. Ask about what extras they can give you – luggage, a new helmet (that could be over £500) or clothing. If you don’t come away with at least a disc lock they’ll think you are a wimp...
Part exchange Most dealers use the CAP Green Book to work out what the bike you are trying to part exchange is worth, and they are not going to give you much more than what it says. And if they do, you can be sure that they’ve made their cut of the profit somewhere else. Dealers have to make a living as well you know. Part exchanging is a hassle-free way to trade up, but if you want to get the best price for your old bike, advertise it for sale on Bike Trader.
Payment Dealers will take a credit card for full payment if your limit is high enough but they’d prefer to avoid the charges. Most would ask for a deposit on plastic, with the balance by debit card or banker’s draft. If paying by cheque, expect the payment to be cleared before you take delivery. If you need a loan, most dealers have finance packages. Or you can compare over 400 loans online at Bike Trader.
Paperwork You don’t need an MOT test until a motorcycle is over three years old, but you will get the V5C registration certificate (the log book). Check all details on the V5C match with the motorcycle you are getting, especially the number plate, make, model and year, VIN (Vehicle Identification Number or frame number) and engine number. You will also get a handbook, warranty registration card and a bill of sale.
What if it goes wrong? Buying from a dealer (trade in Bike Trader ads) means you are protected by the Sale of Goods Act. Put simply, this states that goods must meet an acceptable standard. If your bike develops a fault take it straight back to the dealer and ask them to fix it. If there is a major problem you can ask for a replacement or refund. Page 1 |
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