Motorcycle Safety & Driveability: Buying used bikes, harley davidson motorcycles, salvage motorcycle

Question
What are advantages or disadvantages of purchasing a harley davidson motorcycles for sale from the Auction. Is it risky.

Answer
I looked at the motorcycles in the link you provided. I do not have any first hand experience buying a motorcycle from a salvage auction. The prices do appear to be attractive. And whether it is a good deal for you would depend on the motorcycle you choose and how long you plan to keep it. Please be aware that most motorcycles sold though salvage auctions will come with a "salvage" branded title. The S brand will remain with the motorcycle regardless of the repairs. The brand will remain with the title even if it transfers between different states.

Some states will require that you have the motorcycle reinspected once you make the repairs prior to the state issuing you a title and be able to register the motorcycle for street use.

If your purpose of buying the salvage motorcycle is to purchase a less expensive model than you would be able to buy a similar motorcycle through a private sale or dealer, then it may work for you. Be aware that when you wish to resell the motorcycle you can probably expect to sell it for less than other motorcycles without a branded title. also there are sometimes some extra fees associated with salvage motorcycles.

If you decide to go forward with this I strongly suggest that you obtain the requirements for titling and registering salvage motorcycles in your state prior to buying. some states have significant fees associated with the titling and salvage inspection processes. Also, if you purchase and repair a salvage motorcycle it is a very good idea even if not required by your state to save all receipts for parts and take photograph s to document the rebuild.

I hope this helps you make your decision. good luck with your motorcycle search.

Tom Wright