Buying a bike without test ride?
 

How common is it that a seller will not allow you to test ride the bike before buying? I am looking to purchase my first bike this weekend and the seller has stated he had a bad experience when selling a bike before when he allowed a prospective buyer to test ride the bike. In many adds I have looked at they clearly state no test rides, I would think to defer possible inexperienced riders and tire kickers from abusing their bike. The seller and I have reached a final price and sorted out all the details except for this fact. I will have an experienced rider with me to check out the bike and to test ride if its allowed.

The bike is an 05 Kawi 636 with 6100 miles, he has maintenance paperwork for 4 oil changes and a system flush, and has never been down.

Thanks

Re: Buying a bike without test ride?
 

I won't let a buyer test ride a bike I'm selling until I have cash in hand. That way, if they drop the bike they bought it. The seller is still responsible from an insurance standpoint though if the rider is hurt or there is other reported property damage. It can be a sticky situation. IMO, if you've agreed on a price and you have the cash, he should let you take a reasonable test ride.

Re: Buying a bike without test ride?
 

Oh def and I forgot to add i have no problem signing something saying that if anything were to happen I would buy the bike right then and there. I mean the cashiers check will be right with me.

Re: Buying a bike without test ride?
 

+1

No test rides either, too much risk.

Re: Buying a bike without test ride?
 

Rob! Yes! Thats what I like to hear.

I'm excited! I should be getting mine in the next couple of weeks.

Re: Buying a bike without test ride?
 

you should be able to ride it/ or have someone ride it the day you come with your moneys in your hand... hand it to him, and ride, then if bike is good, get title and shit... just in case you drop it... u know?..

Re: Buying a bike without test ride?
 

Yes man, get one too! I need someone to ride with, call me as soon as you get it. I take the MSC on the 2nd so it will be a couple weeks until I can ride. And thanks for the responses I am waiting for an e-mail back from the seller.

Re: Buying a bike without test ride?
 

I'd let an experienced rider with a MC endorsement test ride if I literally had cash in hand. I would never let a rider that has little to no experience ride it even with cash in hand. I do however offer and will deliver the bike to a shop to get checked out mechanically to make sure everything is good to go. Pretty standard stuff.

Re: Buying a bike without test ride?
 

Right, I was not planning on riding the bike myself, I am bringing my friend along who has been riding for about 5 years.

Re: Buying a bike without test ride?
 

I HAVE PLENTY OF BIKES FOR SALE!!!!!! No test rides though..... too much liability!