Different Ways You Can Sell Your Used Motorcycle

Selling a motorcycle seems simple until you start the process. Suddenly, you're scrambling to change the fluids, pick a place to meet a buyer and find the title. If you manage the process correctly, however, you can almost always sell a high-quality used motorcycle for a fair and profitable price.

Price the Motorcycle

Before you list your bike, it's a good idea to get an idea of what it's worth. Online listings are a great place to start, so check them out in your area or surrounding cities. These figures should give you a ballpark range. From there, you can pick a price that seems fair. If you like, add 10-20% more to create room for negotiation. It's also helpful to know your bottom line — the absolute minimum amount you can take for your used motorcycle.

Be Honest About the Problems

Almost all used motorcycles can have small quirks or issues. Don't try to hide them — an experienced buyer will know better. Instead, make a list of every problem you can remember, and include it in the listing. Does the bike have physical damage? Include photos of the problem area in your ad. An honest listing weeds out unsuitable buyers, so you don't have to waste your time on pointless test drives.

Pick a Place for Test Rides

Most buyers will want to test-ride the used motorcycle before they buy. If you don't want a stream of strangers knowing where you live, pick a convenient spot. For safety reasons, it should be in a high-visibility place with plenty of people around. The parking lot of a big-box store or the local grocery store works well.

Find Your Title

Before you place your ad, make sure you have the motorcycle title. If you can't find it, order a new one. Does the bank hold the lien? Figure out how to do the transfer. If your bike doesn't have a title, it's a good idea to get one from your state before you sell. The process can be a hassle, but it increases your chances of a profitable sale; many buyers won't buy bikes without a title for fear they're stolen.

When you're selling a used motorcycle, time is your best resource — with patience, you can find the right buyer and walk away with a profit. If you're looking to replace the bike you sell, stop by Indian Motorcycle® of Orange County to check out our inventory of used motorcycles for sale. We are your local used motorcycle dealer in Westminster, CA, and we welcome all our customers in Los Angeles and Orange County.