How to Sell Your Motorcycle

The time has come to part ways with your motorcycle. Maybe it's getting too old for you. Maybe your skills have surpassed it and it's time to upgrade. Whatever the situation, you are ready to sell it for the best available offer. But where do you start and how do you get the most money for it? Read this guide created by Indian Motorcycle® of Orange County to learn how to sell your motorcycle successfully.

Determine Your Motorcycle's Value

When you sell your motorcycle, you want a good gauge of how much it's worth. If you undervalue it, then you are missing out on making money! If you overvalue it, then you're really going to struggle to find a buyer. Try to hit that sweet spot. 

It starts with trying to keep emotions out of it. It can be hard not to let sentimental value influence your evaluation of your bike's financial value, especially if it is your first motorcycle. But try to resist! You don't want to charge more than it's worth and never be able to find a seller.

Instead, try to compile data on your motorcycle's worth. Use local classifieds, internet listings, and similar inventory at a dealership to help inform the price. See how popular it is among riders. The more people who want it, the more you can charge for it. Take into account how old it is, the condition it is in, and any custom upgrades you have made. Don't forget to take into account the area you are selling it in. Geography does play a role in the prices people are willing to pay.

Using all this information, get a ballpark figure in mind. It helps to determine what's the lowest amount you are willing to sell your bike for. Then set the price higher. That way, it leaves room for negotiation.

Get Your Motorcycle Ready

You want your motorcycle to look as desirable as possible and that starts with its aesthetic. Give it the deepest clean of its life. Clean everything, including the lesser-known areas such as under the seat where dirt builds up. If you notice any flaking or scratched paint, now is a good time to touch it up. If there are any parts that are visibly worn, you may want to consider replacing them. They look bad, could drag down the price, and could decrease the buyer's interest.

Consider getting a mechanic to inspect your motorcycle as well. It'll help you catch any issues and give you a chance to fix them. It'll also give you service and inspection paperwork to show off to a potential buyer, which can help them feel more comfortable buying from you.

Spread the Word

Now that your motorcycle looks its best, it's time to tell the world. Harness your inner marketing guru to get the word out. Create online ad listings with photos and information about your bike, such as the make, model, price, mileage, and any other relevant details. Post the listing's link on your social media channels and ask people to share it. Post on forums that relate to the type of motorcycle you are selling. 

Remember that the picture you use will need to capture people's attention. Use the best quality camera you can. Take the photo against a simple background so that your motorcycle stands out. Double check that the lighting is good. It should go without saying, but also be sure that the photo isn't blurry! You'd be surprised how many people use a blurry photo to sell their items. A picture is worth a thousand words, so make sure yours says what you want it to.

Consider a Dealership

Selling your motorcycle to a dealership can be a strategic move. If you are hoping to buy a new bike after you sell a current one, you can go through a dealership to kill two birds with one stone. Get your current bike off your hands while bringing down the cost of your next motorcycle.

If you want to go this route, visit our Westminster dealership We are happy to take a look at your motorcycle and negotiate a fair deal with you. Then you can tour our selection of new and used bikes for sale! Indian Motorcycle® of Orange County proudly serves the Inland Empire, including the city of Los Angeles, California.