Where are the best places to find used dirt bikes for sale? That is a great question that I occasionally get asked. I love hunting for used dirt bikes and have found some pretty killer deals on used dirt bikes.
The key is knowing where to look and what to look for. It can be a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. For me, it is fun and rewarding. I have bought used bikes from other people, bikes from the auction and new bikes.
I think I have owned 14 Dirt bikes in my lifetime and most of them I have bought used….I have an addiction.
Where to find used dirt bikes for sale locally
Where to find used dirt bikes for sale totally depends on where you live. It is a little different in each state, overall you will be spending your time looking online like Craigslist or local classified listings.
For example, I live in Utah and the best place to look here in Utah is KSL.com. For whatever reason KSL is the undisputed winner in buying and selling things here in Utah and some of the surrounding states.
I buy and sell everything on KSL and rarely need to look anywhere else. If you live in California KSL probably won’t apply.
Where you want to look is where most things are bought and sold in your local area. Ideally, you want to be able to go look at the bike before you buy it. Buying local is important.
I have bought some bikes in other states, but I always personally drive to the location and give it a good inspection.
I have bought a number of bikes from auctions out of California sight unseen, but they have a very good system of inspecting the bikes and rating them.
I have found that they have always been very accurate with their assessment of the condition of the bike. To buy at an auction you have to have a special license, which I currently don’t have.
You also have to pay for the bike to be shipped to you if you aren’t local. So, for 99% of people buying at an auction is not even an option.
I don’t have a comprehensive list of where to go for each state but a great place to start is to ask around. Ask the people you ride with or in online forums that are in your area.
You can even go to your local shop or dealer and might be able to get some information from them. For many states craigslist is a great place to look for used bikes.
A little asking around and research will go a long way.
Where to find used dirt bikes for sale online
Also, online dirt bike classifieds are a good place to look. Websites like cycletrader are typically dirt bike dealerships and not private party sellers.
You can buy bikes on Ebay, I have never personally done this since I really do like to get eyes on the bike before I commit to taking it home.
If you do decide to buy a used dirt bike on Ebay make sure that you call a local dealership or mechanic in the area the dirt bike is listed. If they are willing pay them to go look the dirt bike over before you purchase it.
Ebay does allow the money to go into an escrow account and (you) the buyer has to confirm that you received the dirt bike as promised.
How to buy a used dirt bike from a dealership
Buying used bikes at dealers is a lot like buying a new dirt bike at a dealership. Typically the dealership will take in used dirt bikes or buy their own used dirt bike from the auctions.
You generally will pay a bit more when buying a used bike from a dealership but a good dealership will try and take care of you if something is not working.
When you buy a used bike from a dealership you will be required to pay sales tax and register it along with the purchase price of the dirt bike.
No matter this case you need to pay sales tax and register your dirt bike.
What you need to know before buying a used dirt bike
Buying used bikes online can be a bit of a ride. Often times when people are new to buying things online they get very excited about a bike after 30 minutes of looking and think they have found the ultimate deal on a bike.
There is a chance you may have but I would always caution to err on the side of taking your time and being thorough. I would rather risk missing a deal than jumping on a bike too fast that ended up being a poor option.
When you get more knowledgeable sure jump on that deal but for beginners, the biggest piece of advice I have is to take your time. Don’t rush it, there will be another good deal in the future.
When I see a bike I like I always like to sleep on it. Give myself a day to look around and make sure that my emotions aren’t getting the best of me.
Knowing what you are looking for seems obvious but it is important. Figure out what bike you want and do a little research on it.
We have lots of articles and videos on what dirt bike fits different situations. Getting the right bike can make for a better experience overall.
Once you have found a bike that you like set up a meeting to go take a look. If you don’t know what to look for in a used bike take someone that does.
Call up a friend that you know is knowledgeable in this department and have them come with you (or pay a mechanic to look at it).
Buying a new bike is so fun. Looking in the right places can make all the difference in finding the right bike for the right deal. Always do a little more research than expected never hurts.
Also, make sure understand that buying a used dirt bike is a risk. How do you eliminate some of the risks?
You can do so by having experience or pay an experienced dirt bike mechanic to look it over before you purchase it. Regardless if you buy new or not every engine is a ticking time bomb.
Conclusion
The essence of finding a great used dirt bike lies in tapping into local resources and online platforms. While sites like Craigslist or local classifieds are treasure troves for such finds, specialized local platforms like KSL.com in Utah stand out for their regional dominance.
The key is to adapt your search based on your locale, utilizing the most popular platforms in your area, and ensuring you can inspect the bike in person whenever possible.
Online marketplaces broaden your reach, with eBay and Cycle Trader offering vast selections. If you’re buying remotely, safeguard the transaction by using services that hold funds in escrow until you’re satisfied with the purchase.
Yet, if possible, having the bike inspected by someone you trust remains the best strategy.
Purchasing from dealerships offers a blend of security and reliability, albeit at a higher price. However, this premium often buys peace of mind, ensuring that the bike is in good condition and the dealership stands behind their sale.
In your pursuit of the perfect used dirt bike, prioritize informed decision-making. Rushing into a purchase can be tempting, but a thoughtful, well-researched approach will lead to better outcomes.
It’s about balancing excitement with diligence, ensuring that your chosen bike fits your needs and your adventures.
In essence, the search for a used dirt bike is a blend of excitement, strategy, and practicality.
It’s about making informed decisions, leveraging local insights, and embracing the thrill of the hunt. Remember, every search is a potential gateway to your next off-road adventure. If you have any questions or need advice, feel free to reach out.
FAQ About Used Dirt Bikes
Is a 250 dirt bike too much for a beginner?
A 250cc dirt bike can be a manageable choice for a beginner, but it largely depends on the rider’s physical size, confidence level, and commitment to learning. If a 250cc feels too intimidating, starting with a smaller engine might be wise until confidence and skill levels improve.
What is a good price for a dirt bike?
Brand-new dirt bikes can range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more, while used bikes can cost considerably less.
How many miles is too many for a used dirt bike?
Generally, a bike with over 100 hours will need a more thorough inspection, especially the engine and suspension components.
Do used dirt bikes hold their value?
Used dirt bikes can retain their value quite well, especially if they are well-maintained, not heavily modified, and from reputable brands. The key to preserving value is regular maintenance, proper storage, and keeping the bike in good running condition.
I respect those are good fair sellers. I am interested in one of your products when I read your definition of your operation. I am looking for a dirt bike to get to and from work. I am 74 yr. So just need to go to my job. Hope you can help me find the right rig.
There are lots of street-legal dirt bikes. The Honda CRF300L or the Yamaha WR250R is what I would recommend.
I need a cheap bike
There are some chinese made dirt bikes you can get that are cheaper but with dirt bikes you get what you pay for. Chinese dirt bikes do not hold up as well as the other mainstream brands.