Buying and Selling Advice
How Much Is Too Much to Pay?
How much should you pay for a classic motorcycle? Let’s face it: sometimes your heart rate will be the determining factor. But if you’re concerned about practicality, it is essential to do a little research when considering purchasing a classic motorcycle.
Which Classic Motorcycle to Buy
Five Classics for Less than $5,000
With a budget of $5,000 a potential classic bike buyer can find a lot of machines. Within this price range are machines that are relatively recent, generally from the mid to late 80s.
Classic Motorcycle Identification
Inspecting a Classic Bike
For enthusiasts thinking of buying their first classic, it is important to know what signs to look for in order to head off dangerous curves ahead. Most classic motorcycles have one thing in common: typically, the component parts are worn.
Buying Classic Bikes on eBay
Buying a classic bike on eBay? Here are a few things to look out for.
Buying a Used Motorcyle
Advice and tips on buying used motorcycles from the About.com Guide to motorcycles.
Kelley Blue Book for Motorcycles
This site provides pricing information for motorcycles from the 1970s to present. Essential reading before buying or selling a classic bike.
Classic Motorcycle Posters
Posters have been used since the very beginning of the motorcycle industry. Today, posters are very popular amongst classic bike enthusiasts, and historically important or unique posters will change hands for hundreds of dollars.
Avoiding Ebay Scams
Ebay is a great place to shop, but it can also be a minefield for the inexperienced or uncautious. Experienced buyers know that there are a few giant red flags that you should always watch out for.
Packing a Bike for Shipping
Shipping a classic motorcycle across the country or across the world requires proper packing crates. The bike must also be prepared for transportation to meet the various regulations.
Frame and Engine Numbers
For information about a specific make or model of a motorcycle, the owner must have the frame (chassis) and engine numbers. Locating a frame number on an early machine, especially one that is dirty and in need of restoration (barn fresh for example), can be challenging.
Shipping Classic Motorcycles - Internationally
To ship a classic bike internationally, there are companies that can arrange collection from the seller, transportation to airports or docks, and all of the associated paperwork. However, there are some do’s and don’ts to consider.
Motorcycle Accessories – Personalizing your Bike
Motorcycle riders have been personalizing their machines from the beginning. Taking a stock bike and improving the looks or performance is one of the pleasures of motorcycling.
Motorcycle Safety Recalls
For classic motorcycle buyers, the issue of recalls and advisories should be a consideration when conducting any research into a specific make/model.
Classic Motorcycles for Commuters
Finding a cheap reliable way of commuting is an ongoing challenge. Happily, classic motorcycles offer an affordable and fun way to travel.
How to Make Braided Brake Lines
There are few more useful modifications to do to a motorcycle than replacing the rubber brake lines with braided stainless steel lines. For the home mechanic, this task is relatively simple.
Motorcycle Buying at Auctions
Buying a motorcycle at an auction is easy, and sometimes way too easy! Auction houses have very specific rules to protect buyers and sellers alike.
Inheriting a Classic Motorcycle
Best Classics to Buy
Before buying a classic or vintage motorcycle, it is always best to base the selection on the availability of the spare parts.