4 Tips to Help You Sell Your Old Ride

Motorcycles are as much a passion as they are a method of transportation. At RC Components, we know that each customer who orders our custom motorcycle exhaust systems considers their bike to be a source of pride and joy, both on the road and in the garage. However, riding styles change and the bike you love may no longer be ideal for you. When it comes time to sell your beloved motorcycle, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Make Sure You Know Your Bike

While you may know exactly how your ride corners on your favorite mountain pass or be able to recognize the slightest change in engine noise that indicates it’s time for an oil change, you’ll need to know the technical specs. The last thing you want is for your potential buyer to know more about your bike than you do. Remember, knowing your bike inside and out will instill confidence and show that you care about your bike. When a buyer perceives that you did not take the time to become familiar with your ride, they may doubt your claims about your maintenance record. While this may be unfounded, expect it. Be prepared by knowing your bike better than a Harley dealer at the dealership.

Be Selective

While you may want to entertain every buyer that contacts you, it’s okay to be selective about those you let take your ride out. Your bike is an investment and you’ll still want to protect it while you try to sell it. Rather than letting your prospective buyer head out on a test ride as soon as they express interest in your bike, ask them to put a security deposit down. You’ll want the potential buyer to come with cash in-hand. This way, you’ll be able to hold onto the agreed-upon amount while they ride. When they return with your bike undamaged, you can return the cash. Should there be an accident, the security deposit will ensure that you can repair your bike without spending any of your hard-earned money.

Use Stock Parts

If you’ve gone to the trouble of installing a custom motorcycle exhaust or a new set of wheels from RC Components, consider replacing them with the stock parts. Unfortunately, what you find attractive and the perfect addition to your bike may not be the same as your prospective buyer. Reusing your stock parts will give the buyer a blank canvas to work with and allow you to keep the custom gear you love and adore.

Don’t Take Bad Offers Personally

It can be tempting to factor in sentimental attachment to the price of your bike, but it doesn’t mean you should. Evaluate your bike, its age, overall mileage, and make use of the Kelly Blue Book® to determine an accurate and fair value of your bike. You can even print the estimate out to refer to during showings. However, be prepared for low-ball offers. People are almost always out to get a deal, and while you don’t have to accept those offers, don’t take them personally. Remember, a used bike is supposed to be a bargain and a low offer is not always intended as an insult.

When you’re ready to upgrade to a new ride, be sure to customize your look with the very best in custom motorcycle exhausts from RC Components. Browse our selection and order your new system today.