Used Motorcycles For Sale By Owner On Craigslist (2024)

FAQs

Why are used motorcycles so expensive right now? ›

Instead of maintaining a higher inventory like they used to in 2019 and other pre-pandemic years), they deliberately create a shortage of new models. These low levels of motorcycle inventory made it easier for them to sell the bike at a higher price.

Consider the Depreciation Rate of New Motorcycles Over Time

But there's often a silver lining. As depreciation slows, used bikes hold their value better, and you're more likely to recoup a larger portion of your investment - especially if the bike is well-cared-for and kept in great condition.

High mileage for a motorcycle is between 20,000 to 50,000 miles. Smaller motorcycles like sports bikes are considered to be high mileage at between 20,000 to 30,000 miles. Larger models like cruisers and touring bikes are deemed high mileage at around 50,000 miles.

Figures from the Motorcycle Industry Association show virtually no drop on sales from this time last year, with year-to-date stats just 5.6% down. More incredible still is that sales of scooters have increased by over 6% as people realise what an effective transport tool they are.

The different categories of motorcycles can have different life expectancies. A used touring motorcycle, for example, will usually last for about 100,000 miles. A used sport bike, in contrast, will usually last for about 50,000 miles.

BMW motorcycles are known for their quality, performance, and engineering, which contribute significantly to their ability to hold value over time. While the exact depreciation rate can vary depending on the model, year, condition, and market demand, BMW motorcycles tend to depreciate slower than many other brands.

This is because many millennials are often burdened by high debt levels and poor credit scores. Because of this, they feel unable to afford an expensive motorcycle. In the 1980s and 90s, motorcycles were considered a cheap mode of transportation; however, this opinion is shifting among millennials.

Average motorcycles price in the U.S. 2020-2029

The average price in the motorcycles market in the United States was forecast to increase between 2024 and 2029 by in total 0.2 thousand U.S. dollars (+1.68 percent). This overall increase does not happen continuously, notably not in 2027 and 2029.

Though they are small and lightweight, motorcycles still need a transmission, suspension, electronics, and engine, all to fit inside. And this is why many motorcycles can get quite expensive. If you're wondering whether buying a motorcycle is worth the money, you've come to the right page!

How fast do motorcycles lose value? ›

New motorcycles (up to 6 months old): 5% depreciation. Motorcycles aged 6 months to 1 year: 15% depreciation. Motorcycles aged 1 year to 2 years: 20% depreciation.