Buying a Motorcycle or Scooter

So you’ve got an idea of what type of bike you need, now you need to know where to get it from. Well, there are well over 500 dealerships around the UK, and they are the best way to get clear advice on what is going to work for you. This site gives you the names of guys to speak to - find your nearest in our directory.

Buying privately is an option but you’ll have no guarantee or warranty to fall back on, and dealerships only sell good bikes as they have a reputation to uphold.

If you know what style of bike you want, but have not made up your mind on what model you’d like to go for, then you’d probably be best going to a ‘multi franchise’ dealership. Why? Well, it simply means that you’ll have the opportunity to hop on a few different models and see which one feels most comfortable for you.

If you’ve made up your mind on the make and model, then you’re better off going to a ‘solus’ dealership, which will concentrate on the brand of your choice.

Whatever you coose be sure to check out the brands who have signed up to the Motorcycle Industry's 'Buy With Confidence' Scheme.  Each agrees to adhere to a set of professional guidelines and offer a dealer network, spares backup and good customer service.  Find out who has signed up here.

New or used?

Who wouldn’t want a brand new bike? The thought of a new, shiny bike is obviously very appealing and they do come with added benefits like a full manufacturer's warranty (and no wear on the brakes, clutches, tyres and chains etc from a previous owner!). New bikes can also come with attractive finance offers.

Second hand bikes are also a consideration, as these days it’s less likely that any previous riding has had an adverse effect on the engine. Machines are built to last and in most cases would have been ridden within their performance capabilities. These bikes can be financed too.

Whether new or second hand, the secret is buying from a reputable dealer.