There are precious few things in a consumer’s life quite as exhilarating as shopping for a brand new motorcycle. Of course, shopping for a new aircraft or powerboat can produce similar thrills but new bikes tend to produce the biggest bang for the buck.
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Where To Look for New Motorcycles For Sale
Many consumers opt to start their search with a visit to motorcycle dealerships specializing in various brands (e.g. BMW, Honda, Harley Davidson, etc.) but there are many avenues to pursue prior to performing on-site visits. The best place to start sourcing information is online and every major manufacturer hosts a website containing a wealth of information, including manufacturer’s suggested prices, about their products.
The best advantage a consumer can enjoy is an abundance of useful information. Ask friends (and strangers) about their motorcycle experiences, preferences and warnings. Buy a handful of motorcycle magazines and read the product reviews. Newspapers and magazines generally host display and classified advertising for new bikes from early spring to late summer but it’s a good idea to consult local media for auctions year-round too.
How to Determine What Motorcycle is Best for What Rider
Think about what kind of riding will be performed before beginning to look at different styles of bikes. Standard bikes, sport bikes, cruisers, touring motorcycles… there are many different types of bikes from which to choose, and prices tend to range from $5,000 to $50,000 plus.
Posted prices are based typically on the manufacturer’s suggested list or retail price (MSRP) and they do not include optional packages, accessories, additional dealer costs, license fees, or applicable taxes.
Does Size Matter When Purchasing a New Motorcycle?
Bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better when discussing a rider’s ability to handle an oversized vehicle. After a decision has been made to buy a specific bike, the next decision involves the rider’s own physical self. For example, a rider that weighs 140 pounds and stands 5 feet 5 inches tall may have a difficult time managing a 1200cc cruiser that weighs 800 pounds.
The best way to gauge whether a particular motorcycle is appropriate for a rider is to sit on the machine. Make sure the riding position instills confidence. A rider’s hands should meet the bars from a comfortable distance, arms bent to permit maximum control. A rider’s feet should be flat and stationed securely on the surface with knees slightly bent.
The vehicle’s weight is a very important consideration for slow-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability. If the bike should fall over for any reason, the rider must be able to upright the bike without assistance. Everyone drops his or her bike at one time or another, so it’s absolutely essential every rider be able to manage the bike without help.
When is a Good Time of Year to Buy a New Motorcycle?
The best time to buy a new bike is during the off-season, which typically means October to March in North America. Of course, the most popular month to purchase end-of-season models is December but consumers can still find deals on 2009 models in the following year, providing there is stock available.
Many communities host motorcycle shows, exhibitions and other sales events in January-February too. Motorcycle exhibitions are excellent locations to view new models and examine old stock dealers may have for sale. Be prepared to haggle and it’s possible to get a good deal at a special event even in the dead of winter.
Dealers always want to sell old stock and make way for new vehicles. Make an offer on a demonstration bike with low mileage and it’s possible to score a great deal – with full warranty and servicing included.
Trading an Old Motorcycle for a Discount on a New Bike
It is commonplace to “trade-in” an older machine in the expectation a reduced price will be applied to a newer vehicle purchase. Consumers are well advised to do the research and determine fair market value for an older machine. The dealer is under no obligation to assign fair market value for trade-in purposes and the consumer must come prepared to broker a deal.
The best place to look for “book value” ascribed to a particular year, make and model of motorcycle is online. There are many sites online that provide information on comparable bikes for sale.
There’s a new bike out there for every enthusiast, young and old. Stay tuned for more news and advice.
