Bargain | Best Ride For You

Finding A Bargain Motorcycle

1997 Suzuki GS500E. A very affordable motorcycle.

The GS500E is a great example of an affordable motorcycle. Image via Wikipedia

I’d be the first to admit that many motorcycles could be considered a luxury. When you do the math for payment, insurance, maintenance, and mpg versus a car, even the best motorcycle only comes ahead when you put many miles on it. If you leave it set and drive the car, it quickly becomes an expense.

You can manage what you spend on a motorcycle by buying one within your means. If you know that you will not put many miles on the motorcycle, don’t overspend on the motorcycle. First, if you’re going to own a car also, figure out what it cost per mile to drive your car. Now figure out what it costs to operate your motorcycle per mile. If you have to make payments on the motorcycle, it takes a huge number of miles to make up for that payment. The more mpg you can get out of your motorcycle, the easier it is to break even though.

Minimizing the costs can also be done by choosing a motorcycle with the best maintenance schedule. They’re not like a car when you buy them new. My Honda Shadow required a 500 mile checkup that costs over $400! If it wasn’t done, it voided the warranty. Imagine buying a car and getting hit with that cost! It was an outrage and I’ll be sure to look at the maintenance schedule before buying a new motorcycle again.

Motorcycle insurance is another area to cut costs. Shop around as there is a vast cost difference in motorcycle insurers. Again, it’s not like a car. Your agent may be with a big name company, but their motorcycle insurance may be through a rinky-dink outfit. The type of motorcycle is a big difference too. A large cruiser cost much less to insure than a small sport bike. Agents are willing to get the numbers for you, but give them some time as it’s not as quick to quote as with cars.

Another way to save money is to buy gear that allows you to ride in bad weather. Heated suits and rain gear can add many more days of riding. Again, you have to weigh the cost/benefit. You can go over $500 for a good cold weather suit quickly.

If you can buy a small cc motorcycle, it’s easier to save money with the motorcycle. 500 CC motorcycles can perform very well. The mpg difference is much better. If you plan on carrying a heavy passenger and/or travel gear, you have to go larger though. Check the weight limits before you buy. There are exceptions to the rule though. The Suzuki V-Strom 650 is rated at a larger carrying capacity than the Honda Gold Wing. The V-Strom is about $7,000, while the Gold Wing is over $25,000.

Used motorcycles are a great bargain to consider as well. Many people buy a motorcycle, rarely ride it for a few years, and then sell it. Nearly new motorcycles with all of the accessories added for a used price. Don’t overlook these bargains. Do take into consideration the high cost of accessories. It’s not uncommon for a $7,000 motorcycle to have $2000 worth of add-ons and the seller is going to want some type of return on these items.