Choosing a Used or New Motorcycle

After deciding what type of motorcycle to buy, there is a second decision that needs to be made - new or used? Buying a new bike comes with the security and knowledge that goes along with a new purchase while buying a used bike can provide cost savings over a new one. Deciding on new or used can be as simple as looking in the savings account and letting that make the decision. Or, it can be a stressful and potentially regrettable decision.

Buying a New Motorcycle

Advantages:

Besides new shiny paint and no physical damage, a new motorcycle will come with a warranty and the additional security of each state's lemon laws. The warranty can range from 1 to 3 years, and lemon laws vary by state. Buyers should familiarize themselves with each before a new purchase. Although, myAutoloan may help you to choose, Buying a new motorcycle will provide more options and choices, and by going to a dealership the chances of the desired motorcycle being in stock at any given time are pretty good.

• Warranty and lemon laws apply with purchase
• More brands, options, and colors to choose from
• Ability to go to a dealership and take test rides
• No scratches, dings, or dents

Disadvantages

As with any new vehicle the cost of buying new is higher, and it pretty much loses that value when it rolls off the lot. Experienced riders can attest; the odds are very likely that at some point in its life, a motorcycle will get tipped on its side. This can happen while in motion, where the damage might be costly. Or, in some instances just getting on and off the bike might tip it over. The damage usually isn’t as bad when this happens. Damaged motorcycles can be costly to repair, and aftermarket or used replacement parts might be harder to find.

• Higher cost and quick loss of value
• Damage might cost more to repair on a new bike
• Possible difficulty finding replacement or aftermarket parts

Buying a new motorcycle involves going to a dealership and dealing with salespeople, which many people find to be an unpleasant experience. Yet, the security that goes along with the knowledge that the bike hasn’t been wrecked and comes with a warranty can make a new bike an appealing option.

Buying a Used Motorcycle

Advantages

If a used motorcycle is well maintained the savings on cost over a new bike can be well worth the purchase. The nice thing about a used motorcycle is that if you drop it or lay it down for any reason, it might just be adding to damage already present. Plus, used replacement parts and aftermarket accessories might cost less and be easier to find. One very common thing motorcycle owners do is upgrade and accessorize their motorcycle. Many used motorcycles will come with aftermarket modifications that the previous owners have upgraded on the bike, passing the savings to the new owner.

• Cost savings over new
• Damage is expected and not as costly
• Replacement parts and accessories might be more readily available
• Any aftermarket modifications included in the sale

Disadvantages

Unless the used motorcycle is practically new, it most likely does not include and warranty. If it does include a warranty it’s possible the warranty is non-transferable and should be verified with the dealer. A big concern with any used purchase is the new buyer could be taking on someone else’s problem. Motorcycles require regular maintenance and the results of a motorcycle not receiving proper care can be hazardous to the rider. When shopping for a used motorcycle more time will need to be spent reading up on what to check when buying a used motorcycle and performing those checks.

• No warranty or warranty non-transferable
• Could be taking on someone else’s problem
• Possibly detrimental if not well maintained
• More checks need to be done before purchasing

When buying a used motorcycle the cost savings over a new motorcycle is a huge selling point, as well as some of the possible accessories included. Yet, it’s important to check out the bike and make sure that it is indeed a worthwhile purchase, as there are fewer points of recourse if the purchase turns out to be a bad one.

The Bottom Line

Just like buying a car, there are advantages and disadvantages to buying used or new. Ultimately it’s up to the purchaser to decide which fits his or her needs and wants. Then after deciding on which one to buy read up on that model, go down and do some test rides, and be prepared to love life every weekend that involves “going out for a ride” with friends.

Diane H. Wong is a content writer on essaywriter.nyc and a family coach. So she prefers to spend her spare time working out family issues solutions. In this case, she has an opportunity to share her experience with others and keep up with advancing technologies.