These days, the new normal is to buy just about everything online. From clothes to food to cars, there’s an online market for just about everything Americans need. Thankfully, that includes motorcycles. Read on to find out about eight ways to buy a motorcycle online in 2022.
1. Buy Used From a Private Dealership
When shopping for a motorcycle online, looking into private dealerships is the best way to get access to a full selection of affordable used bikes. A reputable dealership will inspect every motorcycle that comes through its doors before it gets shipped out to its new owner and will offer certified pre-owned models for buyers who want to exercise some extra caution. Since new motorcycles can be extremely expensive, buying used from a private dealer is often the only financially sound option for budget-conscious riders.
2. Place an Order Through a Local Dealer
Some motorcycle manufacturers have recently begun to offer contactless order fulfillment. Originally, it was intended to help protect people during the coronavirus pandemic. Now, manufacturers like Ducati, Kawasaki, and Yamaha continue to offer at least some form of contactless motorcycle purchasing, though not all companies have continued their programs since the pandemic has waned.
3. Try H-D Home Delivery
Harley-Davison developed the H-D Home Delivery program to make sure its many fans could still purchase new bikes when everything went remote. Keep in mind that this program is offered only through participating approved Harley-Davidson dealers, but also that buying online means riders can purchase motorcycles from just about anywhere.
4. Buy From a Private Party
Most experts recommend avoiding motorcycles sold as-is by private parties online. It may be fine for people who know their stuff to check out a bike in person, take it for a test ride, then decide whether or not to trust the buyer. There’s no way to check the condition of a bike from afar, though.
5. Hire a Mechanic to Perform Inspections
Want to be absolutely sure that a motorcycle purchased online from either a dealership or a private party will arrive in its advertised condition? The best bet is to hire an independent mechanic to head over in person and perform an inspection before completing the purchase.
6. Book a Test Ride Remotely
A limited number of companies have instituted remote test ride booking. Husqvarna is the best-known example. The company may not be as well-known for its motorcycle selection as it is for its power tools, but for those willing to take a risk on an unusual brand, it may be possible to book a test ride and complete the entire purchasing process without having to step through the doors of a dealership.
7. Schedule a Contactless Pickup
Not all dealerships offer motorcycle delivery, even now. Some may still be willing to offer contactless pickup options, though. Check with local dealers to find out what options are available.
8. Get Help From a Friend
Even dealerships that don’t offer deliveries or contactless pickup options are usually happy to help riders who want to pay for their purchases online and send another party to pick them up. Just keep in mind that these sorts of arrangements will need to be made in advance.
Start Shopping
There are plenty of new and used motorcycles out there. While shopping for a motorcycle online can be limiting in some ways, it can also give riders access to whole new markets. Start checking out available options now.
