Motorcycle Values on Kelley Blue Book and NADA Guides
You can look up motorcycle values on Kelley Blue Book by visiting www.kbb.com/motorcycles. When you arrive Kbb site, select your motorcycle make from the list. You will then be prompted to fill in your zip code. Afterwards, Kelley Blue Book will ask for the year of your motorcycle, followed by the particular model. You can then review the trade-in and retail value of your motorcycle.
Kelley Blue Book will not allow you to enter in specific information about the condition and mileage of your motorcycle. According to Kelley Blue Book, because of frequent odometer malfunctions, it is difficult to ascertain the precise mileage of a motorcycle.
The alternative: Kelley Blue Book has an estimated mileage chart based on the year of the motorcycle. Simply select the trade-in option for your specific motorcycle, and then click the “Mileage & Condition Information” link. Mileage will always be a factor when it comes to the value of your motorcycle.
Importantly, Kelley Blue Book will only give you an estimate of the trade-in value for your motorcycle. This estimate will assume your motorcycle is in good condition and with all original equipment. Again, after choosing the trade-in value for your specific motorcycle, you can click on the “Motorcycle Specs” link to see a list of your motorcycle’s original equipment. You can use this list as a guide for what you may need to purchase before trading your motorcycle in.
You can also choose to see the retail value for your motorcycle. The retail value is the amount you would pay at your local dealership for a motorcycle in prime condition.
Pricing A Motorcycle Using Kelley Blue Book
Kelley Blue Book provides average trade-in or retail values. Kelley Blue Book is the best place to value a motorcycle
What is the trade-in value?
The trade-in value is the estimated price a dealer would factor into account if you used your motorcycle as a trade-in for a new vehicle. In other words, the value of your motorcycle at KBB would help you to pay for the cost of a new vehicle (motorcycle or otherwise).
What is the retail value?
The retail value is the purchase value for a motorcycle in excellent condition. Most commonly, the retail value will apply to vehicles being sold by dealerships.
Also Read:
- Kelley Blue Book: A Solution to Get Better Values for Your Used Cars
- Pricing A Truck On Kelley Blue Book
Condition is a significant factor that determines the price of a motorcycle. Condition will impact the price much more than mileage. Motorcycles with high mileage can still be in excellent condition. On the other hand, motorcycles that have been weathered due to travel ling across rough terrain will, over time, stop functioning as effectively. This is a very important factor that you should consider.
Using NADA Guides to Value a Motorcycle
Visit NADA Guides (www.nadaguides.com) and navigate to and click the “Motorcycles” tab in the main menu. You will then be redirected to a page entitled “Motorcycle and Powersports Prices.” You can get the best value for your motorcycle at Nada.
Next, click “Start Here” and you will be prompted to fill in your zip code. After filling in your zip code, and clicking “Continue,” you will be presented with a list of motorcycle manufacturers. If the manufacturer you are looking for is not in this list, a full list can be accessed in the white and blue drop-down box below.
When you’ve selected the manufacturer, you will be asked to identify the year of production and select the model of the motorcycle. You can then go ahead and search through the list provided for your specific motorcycle.
NADA Guides will then ask for you to provide additional information regarding the motorcycle’s engine, as well as select any applicable options. The additional options relate to the motorcycle’s exterior, lights, glass, seats, among other things. When you’ve made your selections, click the “Continue” button at the bottom of the page.
You will then arrive at a page entitled “Values,” where you can see the value of your selected motorcycle. NADA Guides typically includes the Suggested List Price, Low Retail Price and Average Retail Price. Review all of these different prices to ensure you have all the information you need.
What is the Suggested List Price? This price is the manufacturer’s list price for a brand new motorcycle.
What is the Low Retail Value Price? This is the price used for motorcycles in need of minor repairs, with condition (cosmetic) damage, but in good running condition.
What is the Average Retail Value Price? This is the price used for motorcycles in good working condition, free of damage, and with an average working condition.
You can also look up different specifications for each motorcycle on NADA Guides. It is recommended you compare these specifications. You can do this by selecting three different motorcycles by clicking on the “Compare” link on the “Values” page for your motorcycle.
Considerations when Buying a Used Motorcycle
There are many considerations to make when it comes to buying a used motorcycle. First, consider the motorcycle type, seller type and also the motorcycle’s condition (mechanical and physical) and its service history. You will also want to know whether the motorcycle is within your price range. Make sure you do your research to determine whether there is room to negotiate price.
Otherwise, remember to take the motorcycle for a test ride to see whether you like the feel of it. Taking a test ride will also give you an opportunity to confirm that the mileage is accurately recorded. You may also want to consider why you are purchasing the used motorcycle. What is the purpose for your purchase? This question will inform your purchase. Take note that some motorcycles will be more likely to problems. For example, a dirt bike that has been ridden often may experience suspension wear.
It is recommended you think about where to buy your motorcycle. While dealers and private sellers may have a large knowledge base, private sellers have personal stories about their motorcycles and may be more flexible when it comes to price. At the end of the day, it comes down to what you’re looking for. It is your choice.
Finally, you should thoroughly inspect the frames, chains, sprockets, battery leads, tires and suspension of your desired motorcycle. If you are thorough in your inspection you will save yourself money in the long run. It is also advisable to take note of any missing pieces because even the smallest of parts can be expensive to replace. Ask for service records for the motorcycle. This way, you will know when the motorcycle was last serviced.
Always do your research. Kelley Blue Book and NADA Guides will help you to get the best used motorcycle. Take your time, and you will be best equipped to negotiate the purchase of your desired used motorcycle.
