If you are a motorcycle enthusiast of any kind you have probably thought about buying a Harley Davidson at some point in time. The sound, the power, the ride all seem alluring to those of us who like it on two wheels. One option when purchasing a Harley is to go with a used bike. Most Harley owners maintain their bikes better than their cars so buying into the used market is a pretty safe bet unlike other makes or brands. Harley owners have a lot of pride in their bikes.
So when you go to buy a used motorcycle and in this case a Harley here are the top things you need to consider to make it a good sale and a good ride for you.
1. One of the biggest advantages of buying a used Harley is that more than likely it will already be somewhat customized. The basic truth is that most stock bikes off the factory are not that great looking. So most Harley owners right away go and add lots of chrome, maybe a new seat, a backrest and sometimes a windshield or saddlebags.
2. Now if you bought a new bike and then went and purchased all of these nice and fancy accessories it might run you ton of bucks. Not to mention you have to have them installed or spend lots of time doing it yourself. Then you will find that many a used bike has had a custom paint job done to it which can drive the price up as well.
3. A key factor in deciding to go used is that the average Harley Davidson maintains its value well, but if you buy a brand-new bike you will find it depreciates quite a bit the first year. This is just like any new car you might buy. So now we have three good reasons why buying a used bike are a good idea for you. How about some more?
4. When checking out a used Harley over at the seller's house or place of business you will want to give it a close look over to make sure it has not been in an accident or dropped. Some of the key things to look for when inspecting the bike are new brake or clutch grips, mirrors or foot pegs. This could be a warning sign that the bike has been dropped, since these are the first to get damaged. Man have I had that happen to me. Back in the days of my first bikes this was all too common. Now with big bikes I am not dropping them if I can help it at all.
5. Ask the seller in some detail why he wants to sell the bike. It never hurts to have a conversation to determine just what the motivation is for the seller. With the way the economy is today, a lot of people are selling for financial reasons. Harley owners are dedicated, but if it comes down to the House or the bike, in most cases the house payment usually wins. You can help a fellow Harley owner out by buying his bike and you will also be getting a great deal below market value. Make it a conversation and not an inquisition. Get into their love for the bike and find out if it is hardship, upgrading or what that is motivating them to sell. By being interested in their story you might even turn things in your favor when it comes time to nail down a price.
In these days of vast shopping and research options on the internet, shopping for a used Harley online is the easiest way to find a good deal. Online auctions are a good source. Be sure and read the description carefully and don't hesitate to ask for more pictures from the seller. If you need close-ups of anything be sure and say so. Most sellers are happy to send you more photographs. If you purchased your used Harley online then you will need to arrange for shipping at a reasonable price. Some of the online motor vehicle auction sites like eBay will give you a quote before you make your purchase.
It will always pay to do your research no matter whether you are looking for your bike online or across town. Be thorough, ask questions, take a test ride if you can and most of all, be diligent and honest in your transaction with the seller. Then once you get that used Harley Davidson home you can make it your pride and joy. And don't forget the insurance and helmet if you live in a helmet law state.
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