To avoid any stress when the time comes to sell your motorbike I have compiled a few helpful hints and tips to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible.
A motorbike that looks good is going to generate more interest and make you more money. Use wet wax and chain lube to make the bike look as good as it did the day you bought it.
Ensure that the bike is in working order by checking the oil, tyres, coolant, electrics and chain.
A motorbike without an MOT can be very difficult to sell. Tax isn't as important but the buyer could use this as a haggling point.
Make cosmetic repairs - fixing a dent will save you more money than knocking the price down because of it.
Have all the information about your bike readily available. Service records, receipts for any modifications and a HPI check will give the buyer confidence in you and your bike.
Research pricing on similar bikes to make sure you advertise the best price.
Decide whether you are going to sell your bike privately, online, or through a dealer. A dealer will take a cut, but they will do all the work for you.
Test drives can often be risky. If you decide to allow a test drive, keep hold of the buyers ID and their keys to cover yourself from a potential theft.
When it comes to money, asking for cash is always the easiest option. If you accept a cheque wait for the cash to clear before you hand over your bike, the same with a bank transfer.
Give your buyer a receipt with details of the bike, buyer and the amount they have paid. Sign, date and write 'sold as seen' on the bottom.
Finally you must give the buyer the New Keeper section of the V5 log book and get them to write their details and the mileage of the bike on the main part of the V5. You then need to send it away to the DVLA and they will send the buyer a new copy in their name.