It might seem like the perfect time to buy a used motorcycle, but if you’ve been looking at local advertisements, then you might have noticed that used motorcycles are expensive.
Do you want to know the answer to, why are used motorcycles so expensive? If so, continue reading below as I dive into the reasons why the price tag is so high for these used bikes!
Why Are Used Motorcycles So Expensive?
Used motorcycles are so expensive because of inflation, which drives up the cost of goods and services, including used motorcycles. Additionally, second and third-party resellers are selling used motorcycles at higher prices as the dealerships are having trouble keeping used motorcycles on the lot. Also, the mileage of the used motorcycle impacts price with low mileage bikes being more expensive.
Are you looking for even more reasons why used motorcycles are so expensive? Well, I’ve been researching this topic and have found several reasons so read on to learn more!
1. Inflation
Inflation is continuing to climb and as inflation increases, it means that the costs of goods and services are going to be higher than normal, which impacts used motorcycles.
Therefore, during periods when inflation is high, the price of used motorcycles will sometimes double or triple the value until inflation drops down to a more sustainable range.
2. Second and Third-Party Resellers
Second and third-party resellers including Craigslist, eBay, Facebook, and other sources are selling used motorcycles at higher prices than what you’d find at a dealership.
3. Not Enough Used Motorcycles At Dealerships
One reason why used motorcycles are expensive is that there are not enough used motorcycles at dealerships as the supply of them is short.
Also, since dealerships are having a hard time keeping used motorcycles on the lot, it makes room for those second and third-party sellers to come in and push the prices higher.
4. The Condition Of The Motorcycle
If the used motorcycle is in excellent condition, then the price is going to be higher than a bike that is in poor condition and needs work.
Additionally, if the person selling the bike knows that it’s in great condition without any defects, they know they can charge more for it and people are willing to pay to get a good product.
5. The Mileage On The Used Motorcycle
Mileage on a motorcycle matters just as it does with cars, and the lower the mileage of the used motorcycle, the higher the price tag it will have with it.
For example, if the motorcycle is 10 years old and has only 20,000 miles, it’s going to be significantly more expensive than a motorcycle of the same age with 100,000 miles.
6. Supply Chain Issues
Used motorcycles have become more expensive as supply chain issues have become a logistical nightmare for companies around the world.
Furthermore, supply chain issues have created a shortage of new motorcyclesI, as production and manufacturing have become more difficult, which makes the value of used bikes increase.
7. Shortage Of Employees At Factories & Production Facilities
There is a labor shortage in a lot of industries, which impacts the factories and production facilities that make new motorcycles, and this drives up the price tag on used bikes.
8. The Type Of Used Motorcycle Can Increase The Value
Certain types of used motorcycles have a much higher value, including sports motorcycles, so depending on the type of bike, you may notice the bike is more expensive.
For example, a lot of demand exists for both sports motorcycles and dual-purpose motorcycles, which means that dealerships and private sellers can charge higher prices and people will pay it.
9. Niche Used Motorcycles Have a Smaller Buyer Pool
There is certain niche used motorcycles that have a smaller buyer pool, which means that the price for those bikes is higher since not as many people will want them.
Therefore, if you’re buying a used motorcycle that has less demand than most other bikes, be prepared to pay a higher price as it’s harder to make a profit off those bikes.
10. The Time Of Year You Purchase The Bike Matters
Used motorcycles are going to be more expensive during the spring and summer months, which is prime riding season, so you’re paying a premium for the used bike.
However, if you purchase a used motorcycle during the winter, the price is probably going to be lower since it’s not in demand at that time due to the cold and the inability to ride that often.
11. The Brand Of Motorcycle Is Popular & Reputable
Certain brands of used motorcycles retain their value because of the brand name and the company is known for being reputable and building quality bikes.
Furthermore, if you’re buying a motorcycle from a name like Harley-Davidson, you know you’ll be paying a much higher price regardless of it being used because it’s a Harley and it’s iconic.
To learn more, you can also read our posts on why dirt bikes are so expensive, why Harleys are so expensive, and why used Teslas are so expensive.
Conclusion
Used motorcycles are expensive because of supply chain and production issues with new bikes, which makes the price of used motorcycles higher.
Additionally, the mileage and condition of a used motorcycle can drive up the price if it’s low mileage and in great condition, and the seller knows people will pay top dollar.
On top of that, certain brands of motorcycles are going to retain their value, such as a Harley-Davidson, so you’ll pay a higher price even for a used Harley.