Private or Trade?

narb · Borekit Bruiser Joined: 18 Jul 2006 Karma :

When buying a bike, which is the better option, private or trade?

I'm steering towards trade as it seems to be the safer option - however they do seem to be asking for a good £500-1000 more than the same bike sold privately?

What's everyones thoughts?

dave1rs · Trackday Trickster Joined: 03 Dec 2004 Karma :

private for me,saves a bit of money...but i do always look for mint bikes that have been well maintained.

G · The Voice of Reason Joined: 02 Feb 2002 Karma :

Private; not only is it cheaper, but I'd say there's less dodgy bikes out there (or at least sold as not dodgy) and less people trying to scam you so much.

Cillit-BANG · World Chat Champion Joined: 05 Oct 2005 Karma :

Buying through a dealer saved me about £1000 through the warrenty they gave me. It needed a new ECU Shocked

I see advantages either way and buy bikes by either way. You've just got to use your head a bit.

A LOT depends on how experienced you are or if you know someone who is.

Teamcalibra · Nitrous Nuisance Joined: 06 May 2002 Karma :

extreme3d · World Chat Champion Joined: 27 Dec 2004 Karma :

In short if you are prepared to take the risk go private. It can be cheaper but can you afford to lose the money?

If not, it's actually better economy to pay the extra and go to a (good - i.e. a large) dealer. You get some comeback if it goes wrong - not the least if which is the full weight of trading standards behind you.