Motorcycle Buying: Used vs New

When you’re shopping for a new ride, you’re spoiled for choice. There are so many new and shiny bikes out there just waiting for you to throw a leg over them and zoom off into the sunset. But maybe you want to save a little money. Maybe there’s a model of bike you really love, but you can’t afford to buy it new. That’s when you need to consider buying a used model. 

At Chicago Harley-Davidson Wrigleyville—conveniently located across the street from Wrigley Field in Chicago, Illinois, home of the Cubs—we’ve got a great selection of both new and used bikes for sale. Our friendly sales team will be happy to show you the options and get you the best bike for your money. Read on to learn more about what you need to consider when thinking about buying used versus new motorcycles.

Buying New

The advantages of buying new are clear: you get a sparkling new ride, generally with a warranty and the latest technology. The features available on a new motorcycle can be significantly better than those available on a comparable used bike. You can also pick exactly the model you want, and order packages and features to make your bike your own. 

Of course, buying new can be expensive, so you have to be sure that your budget will allow you to get the bike you really want. Buying a new motorcycle can also mean that you have to baby the engine for a certain number of miles before you can really let loose, lest you risk damaging your new ride. 

And then there’s the fact that buying new can mean that you’re spending more for less. Sure, you’re getting the latest features and technology, but you’re likely getting those features on a lower or less fancy model of bike than you might be able to afford if you bought used. That’s why it’s critical to figure out your budget and your priorities before you go shopping, so you can be sure you are getting exactly the bike you want. 

Buying Used

If you don’t care as much about buying the latest toy, you can usually find a great deal on the used market. You might be able to afford a bigger engine, for example, or an older motorcycle with more accessories pre-installed, like panniers or custom footpegs, for the same price as you would a new bike that doesn’t have those features. And with the money you save from buying used, you might be able to buy new gear for the road—jackets, boots, even a new helmet or Bluetooth® intercom system. 

Of course, buying used has its risks, and you need to be sure you know what you’re getting into. Make sure you buy from a reputable dealer. You can always find your next ride from a private seller, but then you’re never going to be sure what you’re actually buying. If you do choose to buy from a private seller, make sure the seller allows you to do a proper, full inspection of the whole bike and its systems, fluids, mechanicals, and accessories before you take the next step. If you don’t know how to do those kinds of inspections, bring a friend along with you who knows how to wrench. Do a good, long test ride of the bike, and pay attention to the steering, brakes, tires, and engine sound.

The bottom line is that whether you buy used or new, you need information. And at Chicago Harley-Davidson of Wrigleyville, our experienced sales team will give you everything you need to make an informed decision and buy the bike of your dreams. Come see us when you’re ready to shop. We look forward to seeing you!