There is a need to sell an old motorcycle only when you need urgent money or buy a new motorcycle. You can make a high-value sale without involving any third party with the right and effective approach. Always remember that selling a motorcycle directly to a new owner is more profitable than selling the bike to a dealer. to get the best price for your old motorcycle you have to follow a few With appropriate marketing knowledge and savvy navigation, more steps.
1. Check motorcycle condition
Before selling your motorcycle check your motorcycle condition wisely. Check the engine, battery, brakes, spark plug, and other key components and make sure they are in good condition and functioning properly. Check if your engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant are in the right quantity and condition or charge if needed. Fix the dent or scratch on the motorcycle body and take the motorcycle for the final service before selling.
2. Clean your motorcycle
Before selling your motorcycle give it a thorough wash. A clean and detailed motorcycle can easily grab the buyer’s attention. A well-maintained motorcycle always leaves a better impression and helps to increase the selling price.
3. Documents
Gathered all the necessary documents including service record, title, and a receipt if you have updated or installed anything. Maintenance papers will lead a buyer to think that the motorcycle is well cared for and maintained. That will increase the selling value so far.
4. Take photos
Take high-quality photos of your motorcycle from different angles. Take a close shot of the engine, tires, rims, or any unique feature of your motorcycle. Be careful about the light and background of your motorcycle so that it is a sight to behold. Do not forget to take photos of the documents of your motorcycle to ensure validity.
5. Set the price
Find the best value for selling your motorcycle by researching in your area and see who else is selling the same motorcycle that you have then set the price accordingly or you can communicate with your nearby motorcycle dealer to estimate the motorcycle price. You can use an online pricing tool to get an idea about the price. Research well and set a competitive price and also leave some room for negotiation. Set a price that is slightly higher than your bottom line so that the buyer gets a chance to negotiate.
6. Advertising
Write an honest description of your motorcycle. Mentioning the key features, recent maintenance, and any new upgrade or installation. Run your ad on multiple online sites or platforms like eBay, Amazon, etc. You can also run your ad on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or according to your state peak a platform that most people are connected to.
7. Meeting up
You will get many calls, messages, or even emails but you have to measure their words and find who is a valid or actual buyer. You can find one by asking them about their riding experience and why they are interested in your motorcycle. You will also notice the desperateness of a person when they want to buy your motorcycle. Meet your potential buyer in a place that is completely safe and sound and of course, it should be a public place. Do not forget to take someone with you so that you can get extra security. Caution: “Avoid meeting at night and in solitary places”. Though it’s quite risky still if you find a valid buyer and he wants to test ride your motorcycle let him ride. Before meeting with a valid buyer ask him to bring his license, insurance, and ID card with him. Hold all these papers so that when you give your motorcycle to him for a test ride or be seated on the back and set the limitation of a test drive in a controlled area.
8. Make the sale
Almost every buyer finds room for negotiation. Avoid asking the exact amount you want moreover, you will be deprived of fair value. Research well and set a price in such a way that, even after negotiation your desired price will be maintained. Do not hesitate to ask for a price that is slightly higher than your bottom line. If the buyer wants to bargain, ingeminate the motorcycle value and make him understand why this motorcycle deserves this coveted prize. After negotiation, if you see the price come up close to your bottom line and the buyer is strict about it, handshake with the buyer and finalize the sale.
9. Take payment
Be careful and take your payment in a secure way such as: taking payment in cash, bank transfer, or a certified check. Without these payment methods, you can become a victim of fraud in any other transfer method like accepting a personal check. Verify your payment before handing over the motorcycle and its title.
10. Transfer the ownership
Make a bill of sale where the motorcycle model, color, engine, chassis number, VIN, selling price, and date will be mentioned including the seller and buyer signature or Carefully fill in all the necessary sections of the title and sign over the title to the buyer. The process varies state-wise. For more details and specific requirements check your local (DMV) Department of Motor Vehicle. After sealing your motorcycle, cancel your insurance for the motorcycle and notify them to remove your name otherwise you will be liable if any accident happened by the new owner or to compensate.
When you are selling your motorcycle, be honest with your client, be careful, and keep patience although selling a used motorcycle is a bit challenging you can ensure a successful sale by following this comprehensive guide.