Motorcycles depreciate as soon as they leave the dealer's lot. Owners must take steps to protect the bike's value, allowing them to ask for top dollar when they sell it. The following tips help safeguard this value while allowing the owner to enjoy their ride the most.

 

 

Use Original Parts

Use original rather than aftermarket parts when the bike needs maintenance or repair. Doing so boosts the trade-in value of your motorcycle, as dealers and private buyers know they are getting a part made by the manufacturer specifically for the machine. While aftermarket parts often cost less, they may not offer the same level of performance and safety.

 

Regular Maintenance

Every owner needs to have their bike serviced regularly by a reputable dealer. These service visits ensure all parts are in excellent shape and the bike runs as the manufacturer intended. Always take the bike in for maintenance before selling or trading it in. Knowing the bike's mechanical condition is vital when negotiating a higher price.

 

Install a New Battery

Imagine having a potential buyer come to look at the bike only to find it won't start. Avoid issues such as this by replacing the battery on the motorcycle before offering it for sale or trade. Nobody wants to find themselves stranded on the side of the road with a dead battery. Replacing this component takes little time and will reduce the risk of start-up issues, which buyers will appreciate.

 

Pay Attention to the Details

Small details, such as the mirrors, are important when selling or trading in a bike. Replace damaged mirrors and make other minor repairs. When the owner does so, the buyer won't need to spend time making repairs to the bike. They can get on it and go, which makes them more inclined to buy the bike. The same goes for the lights on the bike. Confirm they are in good working order to protect the bike's value when it is time to sell.

 

Replace the Brakes

Buyers want to know if the bike will stop when needed. Replace the brakes and put their minds to rest. Replacing the brakes isn't cheap, so having this work done before selling will help the bike bring in a better price.

 

Touch Up the Paint

Most bikes have a few scratches and dents. Regardless of what an owner does, these blemishes tend to appear. Don't allow them to become a point of contention during negotiations. Touch up any bad spots or have the bike repainted to boost its value.

 

Shine the Wheels

Shiny wheels make a bike look better. Remove rust or corrosion on the wheels to increase the bike's value and make it more appealing to buyers. Refurbished wheels may not seem like a big deal, but they go a long way to making the bike look amazing.

 

Invest in New Tires

Buyers always inspect the tires when buying a motorcycle. Ensure the tires on the bike are in good shape before listing it or trading it in. Replace them if necessary. Buyers are willing to pay more when they know they won't have to take the bike in for work soon after buying it.

 

Clean the Bike

A clean bike attracts attention for the right reasons. A dirty bike suggests the owner didn't care for their machine, and any dust buildup can reduce its efficiency. Clean the bike thoroughly to generate more interest.

 

Make a Wise Choice

When replacing the motorcycle, consider all brands. The brand plays a role in how much a bike depreciates in the first few years of ownership. Well-known brands, such as Harley Davidson, retain their value more than bikes from lesser-known companies. Keep this in mind when purchasing.

Save time by trading the bike at a reputable dealership. Many owners find they receive top dollar by going this route, particularly when they have protected the value of the bike. This option is one no owner should overlook when they are ready to invest in a new ride.