ABR’s resident expert of all things two-wheeled answers your questions
Question
Hi Dave,
I have a 125cc motorcycle but I’ve decided that biking is not for me, I’m far happier riding pillion with my husband. So, I’ve decided to sell it and use the money to buy an intercom kit, then give the balance, plus a bit more, to my hubby so he can upgrade to a nice new shiny bike for us both to enjoy.
But it hasn’t been used for a few years. What should we do before selling it to realise its full value?
Thanks, Jill.
Answer
Hi Jill, firstly, what a generous person you are, I’m sure your hubby is going to be well pleased. If the bike hasn’t been used for some time, it’s going to need an MOT, buyers will be put off if it doesn’t have one.
You’ll need to make it clear to potential buyers why it has been off the road for so long as well. A full service and deep clean helps too.
If you are going to take it to your local dealer for an MOT and service, it’s legal to ride it there as long as it’s insured and booked into that dealer for the MOT.
If you or your other half are handy with spanners, you can of course do the service yourselves. Buy the service pack for the model of bike and, importantly, keep any receipts to show buyers that it’s ready to go without any extra expense on their part.
It will need to be advertised to reach as many potential buyers as possible. Internet sites such as Bikemart or eBay give a national coverage, while Motorcycle News have a classified bike sales section on their website or, of course, the weekly rag is still very popular.
To get an idea of its value, search these sites for bikes of a similar condition and age and see what they are listed for. It never hurts to ask a little over what you expect to get for it, it gives a buyer chance to get a little off the price.
Local papers and shop window ads can be an effective way to find a local buyer, most supermarkets have a notice boards for items that are for sale.
I once went to a local boot sale and left my bike near the entrance with a for sale sign and my mobile number on it. I got a call within twenty minutes, met the guy, made the deal and had to phone a pal to collect me, and that cost nothing!
A word of caution, make sure the buyer that wants to view the bike is genuine. It’s best to bring the bike out so they can’t see where it’s secured overnight.
If you’re offered cash then check for forged notes, and I would say that the best option these days is payment by bank transfer; it’s secure and easy. Be prepared for them to pick faults, but make sure you stay firm on the price. If they don’t buy, then the next one will.
Best of luck with the sale, I wonder if my missus would like to sell her bike and donate the proceeds to me? Hmm.
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