A Beginner’s Guide to Buying Used Motorcycles in the UK

As an avid motorcyclist, I have gone through the process of buying used bikes in the UK several times. As a beginner, it can seem daunting trying to find a good quality used motorcycle that fits your needs and budget. Based on my experience, I have put together this comprehensive guide to help other beginners navigate the process smoothly. Follow these tips and you’ll end up with a great starter bike to launch your riding career safely in the UK.
Determine the Type of Motorcycle
The first step is figuring out the type of motorcycle you want. As a new rider, you’ll likely want something with a smaller engine size that’s easy to handle and control. Some good options to consider include:
- Cruisers: Known for their comfort and laidback riding position. Cruisers like the Suzuki Boulevard S40 are great starter bikes.
- Standards/Naked Bikes: Offer an upright riding stance and versatile capabilities. Standards like the Honda CB500F provide good power accessibility.
- Dual Sports: With dirt bike looks and street legality. Flexible dual sports like the Kawasaki KLX250S allow riding on various terrains.
- Harley Davidson: This is an iconic American bike that any motorcycle enthusiast would love to have. Make sure to use a Harley Davidson VIN Decoder and check it out before you buy.
I recommend sticking to engine sizes between 500cc to 600cc as a beginner. Sit on a few different motorcycles to get a feel for what body position you find most comfortable and can easily manage. This will help narrow down your ideal bike style.
Set Your Budget
The next step is setting a realistic budget and sticking to it. It’s easy to get tempted by that flashy sports bike way out of your price limit. But as a beginner, you’re more likely to drop or damage the bike while still developing riding skills. So, it’s best to go affordable. Expect to spend around £1,500-£3,000 for a quality used motorcycle as a new rider. You can always upgrade to something bigger and fancier later once you gain experience.
Where to Find Used Motorcycles for Sale
When it comes to finding used motorcycles for sale in your area, you have a few options:
Online Classifieds/Listings:
- AutoTrader
- Gumtree
- eBay Motors
- Facebook Marketplace
I often have the best luck finding options by checking online classifieds. You can browse by motorcycle make, model, price and other specifics. Pay attention to location as well as zero in on sellers nearby.
Local Motorcycle Dealers:
- Check dealer websites for trade-in inventory
- Visit showrooms to see available selection
Dealerships invest in preparing used bikes for sale, so they tend to be higher quality. However, their asking prices are also higher, so account for this in your budget.
Motorcycle Events/Shows:
- Vendors often sell used motorcycles
- Sit on different bike models/styles
If you have a motorcycle show nearby, it’s worth stopping by to see offerings. You can also take advantage of checking out a wider variety of motorcycle types in one place.
Inspect the Motorcycle Thoroughly
If browsing motorcycles online, scrutinize the photos provided closely. Do the tires look worn out? Any visible damage, leaks or rust? Read the details thoroughly as well about mileage, service history and repairs needed. Message the seller with specific questions if anything seems unclear or concerning.
When viewing a used motorcycle in person, give it a thorough inspection before taking it for a spin. Here are key things to check over:
- Tires – Ensure proper pressure, tread depth and no damage/dry rot
- Brakes – Test front and rear brake function
- Suspension – Ensure smooth compression and return
- Drivetrain – Check chain, sprockets and gear shifting
- Levers & Cables – Make sure no looseness or sticking
- Lights & Signals – Confirm all bulbs and indicators work
Don’t be afraid to ask questions about service intervals, oil changes, past drops or repairs too. Test ride the bike around the block, testing acceleration, braking ability and handling. Pay attention to any unusual sounds or sensations. A test ride often exposes issues not visible during a stationary inspection.
Negotiate the Price
Once you’ve settled on a used motorcycle you like, it’s time to negotiate the price. Most private sellers expect prospective buyers to bargain on the asking price. Point out any flaws, repairs needed or mods you noticed during the inspection to argue the price down.
See if they have any wiggle room on the list price. I usually start quite low with my counteroffer, then negotiate somewhere in the middle. Don’t be afraid to walk away either if you or a seller can’t reach agreeable terms.
Complete the Purchase
When you and the seller have agreed on a final price, complete the purchase exchange. Count out cash or finalize cheque/bank transfer payment. Don’t forget to secure all documentation – the V5c registration form verifying ownership, owner’s manual, service records, spare keys and anything else included. Immediately register the bike under your name via the DVLA so you have legal ownership. Proper documentation also ensures you don’t run into issues down the road if reselling.
Owning and riding your own motorcycle is an incredibly enjoyable experience full of adventure and freedom. But finding the ideal starter bike and getting prepared as new rider takes diligence. Follow this comprehensive guide during your motorcycle buying journey to end up with a quality used bike and launch your riding career safely. Let me know if any other tips would be helpful!
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