You’ve made the big decision: it’s time to buy a motorcycle. You’ve done your research and basically know what style, and maybe even what particular model, you want. Now it’s time to hit the showroom and make a deal! Before you set foot in your local motorcycle dealership, keep this in mind: prices are often non-negotiable…especially on popular models.
Motorcycle dealers don’t serve the same high-profit markets as car dealers, and they’re far less capable of making a better deal than what’s on the price tag. But, slow-selling models (those that are usually on sale) sometimes have a bit of room for negotiation. And of course you can always try and get some accessories (helmets, gloves, maintenance) to seal the deal.
The good news is that motorcycle dealerships are not as stressful as car dealerships. The salespeople at these dealerships are not usually very pushy, so it may be up to you to ask a lot of questions.
Many dealerships don’t allow test drives, but they should at least allow you to sit on the bike you’re considering and start the engine.
When checking out a bike, keep these important factors in mind:
-If the seat is comfortable or not.
-If the handlebar is comfortable.
-If your knees rest perfectly on both sides of the gas tank.
Next, it’s time to check the engine. speed up! Take note to see if it has a nice smooth feel at high RPM, or if it feels buzzy instead.
Also, keep the weight in mind. Does it seem like it will be easy to control? Can you easily lift it off the ground?
Now take note of this important tip: don’t buy any bikes on your first visit! Even if you have fallen in love with him! Always check out bikes from a few different manufacturers before making this all-important decision.
Once you’ve made your final decision, return to the dealership of your choice and choose from their current inventory.
While price haggling isn’t usually an option for bike buyers, trying to get a few free bees isn’t out of the question, especially if you’re a cash buyer. Of course, most dealerships now offer their own financing options, so if you don’t have the cash up front, you can still buy the bike of your dreams.
As you can see, buying a motorcycle is a little different than buying a car, but it can also be a lot easier, faster, and a lot less complicated! Now go out and find the bike of your dreams.