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Buying a motorbike
Updated: Thursday, 5 October 2023
Whilst buying a new or used motorbike is exciting, knowing where to begin can be tricky. Especially for first-time buyers, the whole process can feel overwhelming, with so many different makes, models, and types available.
This guide explores the various factors to consider when buying a motorbike, looking at different bike types, sizes, and payment options to help you feel confident when buying a new motorcycle.
Buying a motorbike: where to start
Before buying a motorbike, there are several questions to ask yourself. To help you understand what you want and need from your bike, we’ve outlined some of the most important questions to think about:
Motorbike use
How you want to use your motorbike will affect the type of motorbike insurance you need and the type of bike that will be most suitable for you.
- Why do you want or need a motorbike? Are you buying a motorbike to commute to work, to join a motorcycle club, or to go on road trips?
- How do you plan to use your motorbike? Will you be covering long or short distances, and will you drive on busy main roads or quieter ones?
- What features do you need? Different types of bikes have different features, so consider how you’ll use a motorcycle and think about what you need it to have.
Motorbike budget
Before you start looking for a motorbike, it helps to have a budget in mind. Ensure you can answer the following questions before thinking about which bikes to buy:
- What is your budget? Knowing what you can afford will help you narrow your options to bikes within your budget, ensuring you don’t overspend.
- How will you pay for the motorbike? You can choose to purchase your motorbike outright or take out a motorbike finance agreement to spread the cost over more manageable monthly instalments.
- How much will it cost to run and maintain? While motorbikes are generally cheaper to run than cars, the costs may quickly ramp up if you’re an enthusiast and plan to cover many miles.
Type of motorbike
Once you have set a budget and understand how you will use your motorbike, it’s time to think about the specific type of motorbike you need.
Several common types of motorbikes include cruiser motorbikes, touring motorbikes, and sports motorbikes.
Cruiser motorbikes
With a more laid-back, relaxed riding position, cruiser bikes feature lower seats and more comfortable positioning. They also have a longer wheelbase and are heavier, which makes them well-suited to motorway riding. Some popular cruiser bikes include:
- Harley Davidson Fat Boy
- Kawasaki Vulcan
- Royal Enfield Meteor
Sports motorbikes
These bikes are built for agility and speed and typically have sleek, lightweight, aerodynamic designs. In terms of ride positioning, a sports bike will have higher foot pegs and lower handlebars, so you’ll have to lean forward, which can be uncomfortable on long rides. The following models are all sports motorbikes:
Touring motorbikes
Touring bikes prioritise comfort and practicality on long journeys. They usually feature space to store luggage, longer wheelbases, and comfortable seats to ensure a smooth ride. While they are more relaxed, touring bikes are heavier than sports bikes. Types of touring motorbikes include:
Read our in-depth guide on motorbike types for more information.
Motorbike engine size
The capacity of a motorbike engine is an essential factor when considering buying a motorbike, as this impacts the performance and costs of the vehicle.
The power of a motorbike engine is measured in CC (cubic capacity), and engine sizes can range from 50 to 1500 CC.
Lower CC motorbikes are generally cheaper to buy and run but will have less power, so they will mean you compromise on speed and performance.
An example is 125cc motorbikes because they’re typically much cheaper than sports or touring motorbikes.
Motorbike brand
Each motorbike brand offers something different and unique. Your choice of motorbike brand should fit your personal preference and affordability.
Some makes and models, like BMW, Honda, and Harley-Davidson, are more desirable, so they hold their value better than others, but they also often have higher running and maintenance costs.
When choosing a motorbike brand, consider the following:
- Reliability
- Running and maintenance costs
- Value and depreciation
Consider motorbike costs
Before buying your motorbike, you should check how much tax and insurance costs to avoid surprises once you own the bike.
You can check a vehicle’s tax band by entering its registration number into online calculators such as Car Tax Check.
If you plan to buy a used bike, check its service history to ascertain whether there will likely be any costly maintenance. This may also uncover whether a used bike has sustained any crash damage.
For new bikes, ensure the manufacturer’s warranty covers all the electrics and other components that could break due to no fault of your own.
Should I get a new or used motorbike?
Whether you buy a new or used motorcycle will typically depend on your budget, but there are things to look out for.
A second-hand bike will have been through much more use, so check its servicing history and MOT certificate, especially if you’re buying from a private seller.
If you want to buy a new motorbike, it’s important to note that it may drop in value more steeply than a used motorcycle.
Whether a new or used bike is best depends on your circumstances. Let’s take a look at some key considerations when buying new and used, so you can make an informed decision.
Buying a new motorbike
There’s nothing like the thrill of sitting on a brand-new bike. But buying one isn’t all about having the latest model; there are other benefits compared to buying a second-hand motorbike.
1. Reliability
A brand-new motorbike typically includes a manufacturer’s warranty and a service plan.
By comparison, buying a used bike can be cheaper, but there is an increased risk of mechanical faults, the cost of which could add up.
2. Finance options
As a new bike costs more, you could choose to take out a loan or finance it, which helps spread the cost over time.
Compared to buying privately, buying a new bike may mean more finance deals are available to you, such as leasing or finance.
If you already have a motorbike on finance, you might be able to trade it in for a new one. For more information, see our guide that explains whether you can part-exchange a vehicle on finance.
3. Safety features
Newer bikes will have more up-to-date technology and safety features. ABS, traction control, and adjustable suspension systems have all been developed in recent years, so a newer model may be safer and easier to ride than those that are a few years old.
For more guidance on staying safe on your motorbike, read our blog.
Pros of buying a brand-new bike
- Reliability
- More advanced technology than older bikes
- Modern safety features
- More finance options
- Manufacturer’s warranty offers peace of mind.
Cons of buying a brand-new bike
- More expensive
- The bike’s value will depreciate quickly in the first few years
- Spare parts may cost more
- You may have to wait for the bike to be ordered from a factory
- Insurance costs may be higher.
Buying a used motorbike
Buying a used bike is generally cheaper, which is why it is the more popular option. There are a few things to consider during the buying process.
1. Payment protection
If you decide to purchase a used motorcycle from a private seller, ensure you view the bike at the seller’s home. This way, you’ll have their address should anything go wrong after the sale.
If you decide to buy from a dealership, check their online reviews and read the advert thoroughly.
2. Paperwork and service history
Make sure you ask to see all of the paperwork and verify that it is accurate and legitimate – this is something you can ask them to prepare in advance before meeting to view the bike.
You should also carry out the following checks:Â
3. Condition
Inspect the bodywork for rust and signs of scuffs, damage, or oil leaks. Ensure the lights work properly, the chain is oiled and correctly adjusted, and the suspension, steering, brake pads, and tyres are in good condition.
While inspecting the bike, note the frame and engine numbers, including the vehicle identification number (VIN). The VIN can track warranty claims, thefts, insurance coverage, and more.
Likewise, it’s good to check the bike’s engine number matches the one written on the owner’s manual and registration certificate. It may indicate that the bike is stolen if the numbers don’t match up.
Depending on age, the battery and other components may also need replacing. The cost of these can quickly add up, surpassing the total asking price of the motorbike.
It’s a good idea to bring a pad and pen to make note of anything that stands out. Any problems you find can be raised with the dealer and used as potential haggle points.
Additionally, you can take the bike for a test ride to ensure it runs smoothly.
Pros of buying a used motorcycle
- Cheaper than buying a new bike
- Running and insurance costs may be lower
- More choices, including buying from a private seller
- The bike’s value will not depreciate as quickly
- Insurance premiums may be lower compared to new motorbikes.
Cons of buying a used motorcycle
- Fewer finance options
- Repair bills may be larger
- Safety and technology may not be as advanced
- Limited or no warranty
- Higher mileage.
Motorbike buying options
Consider the various payment options before purchasing a motorbike. You could buy a motorbike outright or on finance, but deciding on the most suitable option will depend on your financial circumstances and whether you want to be the legal owner of the bike.
Buying a motorbike on finance
Motorbike finance agreements require fixed monthly payments over an agreed period and, in some cases, a final payment before you become the legal owner.
With a Conditional Sale (CS) agreement, you’ll become the bike’s legal owner at the end of the agreement. When you make your final payment, the finance company will transfer ownership to you. This is different from other types of motorbike finance because there is no balloon payment or fee involved.
Some finance deals require a deposit, which can be cash or from a part exchange of another vehicle you own. Make sure you use a motorbike finance calculator so you’re aware of all the costs involved.
Whatever your circumstances, you should be able to access motorbike finance. We specialise in bad credit motorbike finance and have helped thousands of people across the UK onto a better road ahead. If you have a poor credit history or previous lenders have refused your credit applications, we might be able to help.
Representative 30.7% APR.
Buying a motorbike outright
If you have the money to pay upfront, buying a motorbike outright is cheaper in the long run. If you don’t have the funds available, consider spreading the cost of your motorbike over a series of monthly instalments by taking out a finance agreement, or by leasing.
Leasing a motorbike
Motorcycle leasing is like leasing a car, as you’ll never legally own the vehicle. You’ll rent it for a fixed monthly fee and an agreed period, then hand it back to the dealership or finance company when the lease ends.
Most leasing agreements have a mileage limit. If you exceed your yearly mileage limit, you’ll likely end up paying hefty fees. This means that if you want to go touring or cover long distances on your bike, you should enter a lease agreement with a high annual mileage allowance.
FAQs about buying a motorbike
Generally speaking, motorbikes are cheaper to insure than cars. The exact price you will have to pay for motorbike insurance will vary based on several factors, including:
- How many years you have held your license
- The make and model of your bike
- The age of the bike and whether it has been modified
- How many miles you intend to ride per year.
As per the GOV.UK website, you can expect to pay as little as £25 a year road tax on a motorbike under 150CC and up to £117 on a bike with an engine size of more than 600CC.
The exact figures for road tax on motorbikes are as follows:
| Engine size | Single 12 month payment | Total of 12 monthly instalments | Single 6 month payment | 6 months payment by direct debit |
| 150CC or less | £25 | £26.25 | N/A | N/A |
| 151-400CC | £55 | £57.75 | £30.25 | £28.88 |
| 401-600CC | £84 | £88.20 | £46.20 | £44.10 |
| 600CC + | £117 | £122.85 | £64.35 | £61.43 |
This data is accurate as of 15 May 2024.
According to the experts at Moto Geek, high mileage for smaller capacity and sports bikes is 20,000 – 30,000 miles. Meanwhile, for larger motorcycles anything above 40,000 miles is considered a lot.
Additionally, RideApart claim any bike with under 10,000 miles on the clock is low mileage and has lots of life left.
Mileage is only one of the factors to consider when buying a motorcycle, you should also take into account the bike’s age, condition, past use, and how well it has been maintained. However, checking the current mileage and seeing how often it has been driven can help you understand whether the bike has been looked after well or used heavily.
Whilst buying a new or used motorbike is exciting, knowing where to begin can be tricky. Especially for first-time buyers, the whole process can feel overwhelming, with so many different makes, models, and types available.
This guide explores the various factors to consider when buying a motorbike, looking at different bike types, sizes, and payment options to help you feel confident when buying a new motorcycle.
Buying a motorbike: where to start
Before buying a motorbike, there are several questions to ask yourself. To help you understand what you want and need from your bike, we’ve outlined some of the most important questions to think about:
Motorbike use
How you want to use your motorbike will affect the type of motorbike insurance you need and the type of bike that will be most suitable for you.
- Why do you want or need a motorbike? Are you buying a motorbike to commute to work, to join a motorcycle club, or to go on road trips?
- How do you plan to use your motorbike? Will you be covering long or short distances, and will you drive on busy main roads or quieter ones?
- What features do you need? Different types of bikes have different features, so consider how you’ll use a motorcycle and think about what you need it to have.
Motorbike budget
Before you start looking for a motorbike, it helps to have a budget in mind. Ensure you can answer the following questions before thinking about which bikes to buy:
- What is your budget? Knowing what you can afford will help you narrow your options to bikes within your budget, ensuring you don’t overspend.
- How will you pay for the motorbike? You can choose to purchase your motorbike outright or take out a motorbike finance agreement to spread the cost over more manageable monthly instalments.
- How much will it cost to run and maintain? While motorbikes are generally cheaper to run than cars, the costs may quickly ramp up if you’re an enthusiast and plan to cover many miles.
Type of motorbike
Once you have set a budget and understand how you will use your motorbike, it’s time to think about the specific type of motorbike you need.
Several common types of motorbikes include cruiser motorbikes, touring motorbikes, and sports motorbikes.
Cruiser motorbikes
With a more laid-back, relaxed riding position, cruiser bikes feature lower seats and more comfortable positioning. They also have a longer wheelbase and are heavier, which makes them well-suited to motorway riding. Some popular cruiser bikes include:
- Harley Davidson Fat Boy
- Kawasaki Vulcan
- Royal Enfield Meteor
Sports motorbikes
These bikes are built for agility and speed and typically have sleek, lightweight, aerodynamic designs. In terms of ride positioning, a sports bike will have higher foot pegs and lower handlebars, so you’ll have to lean forward, which can be uncomfortable on long rides. The following models are all sports motorbikes:
Touring motorbikes
Touring bikes prioritise comfort and practicality on long journeys. They usually feature space to store luggage, longer wheelbases, and comfortable seats to ensure a smooth ride. While they are more relaxed, touring bikes are heavier than sports bikes. Types of touring motorbikes include:
Read our in-depth guide on motorbike types for more information.
Motorbike engine size
The capacity of a motorbike engine is an essential factor when considering buying a motorbike, as this impacts the performance and costs of the vehicle.
The power of a motorbike engine is measured in CC (cubic capacity), and engine sizes can range from 50 to 1500 CC.
Lower CC motorbikes are generally cheaper to buy and run but will have less power, so they will mean you compromise on speed and performance.
An example is 125cc motorbikes because they’re typically much cheaper than sports or touring motorbikes.
Motorbike brand
Each motorbike brand offers something different and unique. Your choice of motorbike brand should fit your personal preference and affordability.
Some makes and models, like BMW, Honda, and Harley-Davidson, are more desirable, so they hold their value better than others, but they also often have higher running and maintenance costs.
When choosing a motorbike brand, consider the following:
- Reliability
- Running and maintenance costs
- Value and depreciation
Consider motorbike costs
Before buying your motorbike, you should check how much tax and insurance costs to avoid surprises once you own the bike.
You can check a vehicle’s tax band by entering its registration number into online calculators such as Car Tax Check.
If you plan to buy a used bike, check its service history to ascertain whether there will likely be any costly maintenance. This may also uncover whether a used bike has sustained any crash damage.
For new bikes, ensure the manufacturer’s warranty covers all the electrics and other components that could break due to no fault of your own.
Should I get a new or used motorbike?
Whether you buy a new or used motorcycle will typically depend on your budget, but there are things to look out for.
A second-hand bike will have been through much more use, so check its servicing history and MOT certificate, especially if you’re buying from a private seller.
If you want to buy a new motorbike, it’s important to note that it may drop in value more steeply than a used motorcycle.
Whether a new or used bike is best depends on your circumstances. Let’s take a look at some key considerations when buying new and used, so you can make an informed decision.
Buying a new motorbike
There’s nothing like the thrill of sitting on a brand-new bike. But buying one isn’t all about having the latest model; there are other benefits compared to buying a second-hand motorbike.
1. Reliability
A brand-new motorbike typically includes a manufacturer’s warranty and a service plan.
By comparison, buying a used bike can be cheaper, but there is an increased risk of mechanical faults, the cost of which could add up.
2. Finance options
As a new bike costs more, you could choose to take out a loan or finance it, which helps spread the cost over time.
Compared to buying privately, buying a new bike may mean more finance deals are available to you, such as leasing or finance.
If you already have a motorbike on finance, you might be able to trade it in for a new one. For more information, see our guide that explains whether you can part-exchange a vehicle on finance.
3. Safety features
Newer bikes will have more up-to-date technology and safety features. ABS, traction control, and adjustable suspension systems have all been developed in recent years, so a newer model may be safer and easier to ride than those that are a few years old.
For more guidance on staying safe on your motorbike, read our blog.
Pros of buying a brand-new bike
- Reliability
- More advanced technology than older bikes
- Modern safety features
- More finance options
- Manufacturer’s warranty offers peace of mind.
Cons of buying a brand-new bike
- More expensive
- The bike’s value will depreciate quickly in the first few years
- Spare parts may cost more
- You may have to wait for the bike to be ordered from a factory
- Insurance costs may be higher.
Buying a used motorbike
Buying a used bike is generally cheaper, which is why it is the more popular option. There are a few things to consider during the buying process.
1. Payment protection
If you decide to purchase a used motorcycle from a private seller, ensure you view the bike at the seller’s home. This way, you’ll have their address should anything go wrong after the sale.
If you decide to buy from a dealership, check their online reviews and read the advert thoroughly.
2. Paperwork and service history
Make sure you ask to see all of the paperwork and verify that it is accurate and legitimate – this is something you can ask them to prepare in advance before meeting to view the bike.
You should also carry out the following checks:Â
3. Condition
Inspect the bodywork for rust and signs of scuffs, damage, or oil leaks. Ensure the lights work properly, the chain is oiled and correctly adjusted, and the suspension, steering, brake pads, and tyres are in good condition.
While inspecting the bike, note the frame and engine numbers, including the vehicle identification number (VIN). The VIN can track warranty claims, thefts, insurance coverage, and more.
Likewise, it’s good to check the bike’s engine number matches the one written on the owner’s manual and registration certificate. It may indicate that the bike is stolen if the numbers don’t match up.
Depending on age, the battery and other components may also need replacing. The cost of these can quickly add up, surpassing the total asking price of the motorbike.
It’s a good idea to bring a pad and pen to make note of anything that stands out. Any problems you find can be raised with the dealer and used as potential haggle points.
Additionally, you can take the bike for a test ride to ensure it runs smoothly.
Pros of buying a used motorcycle
- Cheaper than buying a new bike
- Running and insurance costs may be lower
- More choices, including buying from a private seller
- The bike’s value will not depreciate as quickly
- Insurance premiums may be lower compared to new motorbikes.
Cons of buying a used motorcycle
- Fewer finance options
- Repair bills may be larger
- Safety and technology may not be as advanced
- Limited or no warranty
- Higher mileage.
Motorbike buying options
Consider the various payment options before purchasing a motorbike. You could buy a motorbike outright or on finance, but deciding on the most suitable option will depend on your financial circumstances and whether you want to be the legal owner of the bike.
Buying a motorbike on finance
Motorbike finance agreements require fixed monthly payments over an agreed period and, in some cases, a final payment before you become the legal owner.
With a Conditional Sale (CS) agreement, you’ll become the bike’s legal owner at the end of the agreement. When you make your final payment, the finance company will transfer ownership to you. This is different from other types of motorbike finance because there is no balloon payment or fee involved.
Some finance deals require a deposit, which can be cash or from a part exchange of another vehicle you own. Make sure you use a motorbike finance calculator so you’re aware of all the costs involved.
Whatever your circumstances, you should be able to access motorbike finance. We specialise in bad credit motorbike finance and have helped thousands of people across the UK onto a better road ahead. If you have a poor credit history or previous lenders have refused your credit applications, we might be able to help.
Representative 30.7% APR.
Buying a motorbike outright
If you have the money to pay upfront, buying a motorbike outright is cheaper in the long run. If you don’t have the funds available, consider spreading the cost of your motorbike over a series of monthly instalments by taking out a finance agreement, or by leasing.
Leasing a motorbike
Motorcycle leasing is like leasing a car, as you’ll never legally own the vehicle. You’ll rent it for a fixed monthly fee and an agreed period, then hand it back to the dealership or finance company when the lease ends.
Most leasing agreements have a mileage limit. If you exceed your yearly mileage limit, you’ll likely end up paying hefty fees. This means that if you want to go touring or cover long distances on your bike, you should enter a lease agreement with a high annual mileage allowance.
FAQs about buying a motorbike
Generally speaking, motorbikes are cheaper to insure than cars. The exact price you will have to pay for motorbike insurance will vary based on several factors, including:
- How many years you have held your license
- The make and model of your bike
- The age of the bike and whether it has been modified
- How many miles you intend to ride per year.
As per the GOV.UK website, you can expect to pay as little as £25 a year road tax on a motorbike under 150CC and up to £117 on a bike with an engine size of more than 600CC.
The exact figures for road tax on motorbikes are as follows:
| Engine size | Single 12 month payment | Total of 12 monthly instalments | Single 6 month payment | 6 months payment by direct debit |
| 150CC or less | £25 | £26.25 | N/A | N/A |
| 151-400CC | £55 | £57.75 | £30.25 | £28.88 |
| 401-600CC | £84 | £88.20 | £46.20 | £44.10 |
| 600CC + | £117 | £122.85 | £64.35 | £61.43 |
This data is accurate as of 15 May 2024.
According to the experts at Moto Geek, high mileage for smaller capacity and sports bikes is 20,000 – 30,000 miles. Meanwhile, for larger motorcycles anything above 40,000 miles is considered a lot.
Additionally, RideApart claim any bike with under 10,000 miles on the clock is low mileage and has lots of life left.
Mileage is only one of the factors to consider when buying a motorcycle, you should also take into account the bike’s age, condition, past use, and how well it has been maintained. However, checking the current mileage and seeing how often it has been driven can help you understand whether the bike has been looked after well or used heavily.
For a better road ahead
Moneybarn is a member of the Finance and Leasing Association, the official trade organisation of the motor finance industry. The FLA promotes best practice in the motor finance industry for lending and leasing to consumers and businesses.
Moneybarn is the trading style of Moneybarn No. 1 Limited, a company registered in England and Wales with company number 04496573, and Moneybarn Limited, a company registered in England and Wales with company number 02766324. The registered address for these companies is: Athena House, Bedford Road, Petersfield, Hampshire, GU32 3LJ.
Moneybarn’s VAT registration number is 180 5559 52.
Moneybarn Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services reference No. 702781)
Moneybarn No. 1 Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services reference No. 702780)
