Cheap Motorcycles Craigslist (2024)

FAQs

What is considered cheap for a motorcycle? ›

The Motorcycle

Beginner riders typically pay between $5,000 and $10,000 for a new motorcycle. Experienced riders typically pay between $10,000 and $35,000 for a new motorcycle.

The global motorcycle market was estimated to grow from over 133 billion U.S. dollars to some 136 billion in 2023 as the market continued to recover from the revenue drop recorded at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This rebound somewhat dampened amid supply chain issues in 2022.

Instead of maintaining a higher inventory like they used to in 2019 and other pre-pandemic years), they deliberately create a shortage of new models. These low levels of motorcycle inventory made it easier for them to sell the bike at a higher price.

Florida, Ohio, Minnesota, Connecticut, parts of New York, and the Detroit, Michigan area can be some of the most affordable places to check. In some of these colder places, a bike that is stored and cared for properly can be a gem of a find. Don't forget to check CaJ.

Determining the single most popular motorcycle of all time is a bit tricky, as popularity can be measured in different ways: Sales: In terms of pure sales numbers, the clear winner is the Honda SuperCub. With over 100 million units sold since its 1958 debut, it's the best-selling motorcycle ever made.

This is because many millennials are often burdened by high debt levels and poor credit scores. Because of this, they feel unable to afford an expensive motorcycle. In the 1980s and 90s, motorcycles were considered a cheap mode of transportation; however, this opinion is shifting among millennials.

The predicted failure rates for four-year-old motorcycles ranged from 11 to 15 percent in this group. The domestic brands Victory and Harley-Davidson fell in between the extremes, with 17 and 26 percent, respectively. The remaining brands—Triumph, Ducati, BMW, and Can-Am—were among the more trouble-prone.

High mileage for a motorcycle is between 20,000 to 50,000 miles. Smaller motorcycles like sports bikes are considered to be high mileage at between 20,000 to 30,000 miles. Larger models like cruisers and touring bikes are deemed high mileage at around 50,000 miles.

New motorcycles (up to 6 months old): 5% depreciation. Motorcycles aged 6 months to 1 year: 15% depreciation. Motorcycles aged 1 year to 2 years: 20% depreciation.

Do used motorcycles hold value? ›

Consider the Depreciation Rate of New Motorcycles Over Time

But there's often a silver lining. As depreciation slows, used bikes hold their value better, and you're more likely to recoup a larger portion of your investment - especially if the bike is well-cared-for and kept in great condition.

Red flags when buying a used motorcycle

Notable scratches and rust. Altered vehicle identification number. Wear and tear to the chain and sprockets. When was the last time the bike was driven?

Overall, the cruiser is a great choice for beginners because they're stylish, comfortable, and has a relaxed power output to handle better at low speeds. With that, the cruiser has plenty of flair and is suitable for all types of riding.

We agree with that consensus that 250cc motorcycles are the way to go for beginners. But if you're not convinced, here are some reasons why you should consider this engine size for your first bike.

The first thing you need to consider is the price of the motorcycle. On average, a new motorcycle for beginners usually costs between $5,000 and $10,000. Advanced riders should expect a new bike to cost between $10,000 and $35,000.

What's the average on motorcycle prices, and what can you expect to pay for a brand-new vs used motorcycle? Entry level motorcycles cost between $3,000 – $5,000, the mid-range is around $7,000 – $10,000, and the higher end motorcycle costs vary between $12,000 and $20,000.

1. Know the numbers, but look beyond them. Generally, high mileage on a motorcycle is anywhere from 20,000 to 50,000 miles. For sport bikes, the high mileage number will be on the low end (usually around 25,000), while cruisers and touring bikes typically become high mileage in the 40,000- to the 50,000-mile range.