How to buy a motorcycle

Quick tips on buying a motorcycle

Buying a motorcycle can be a big financial commitment, so it's worth taking your time to make the right choice. Here are the key things to consider:

1. Price

• Motorcycles can be expensive, especially new ones.
• A second-hand bike may save you money, but check it carefully to avoid costly repairs.
• Dealers often have monthly sales targets, so you might score a better deal at the end of the month.

2. Safety

• A bike's condition matters as much as its cost.
• Buying from a dealer usually means a safer, fully checked bike.
• Buying privately may be cheaper but comes with more risk.

3. Your experience and riding style

• Match the bike to your skill level - don't buy more power than you can handle.
• Think about the type of riding you'll do: on-road, off-road, sports or lifestyle cruising.

4. Accessories

• Budget for essential gear: helmet, jacket, gloves, boots, rain gear and eye protection.
• Good gear isn't cheap, but it's crucial for safety - shop around for the best value.

5. Take your time

• Don't rush into a purchase - mistakes can be costly or dangerous.
• Research thoroughly, compare options and respect that motorcycles are powerful machines.

Finder survey: Do Australians of different ages buy their bike new or used?

What to look for when buying a motorcycle

You need to remember that buying any sort of vehicle, including a motorcycle, is a big step and there are a number of things to consider before you take the plunge. Some of the things you need to think about before you purchase a motorcycle include:

• Whether to buy new

  Most people would, of course, like to be able to buy a gleaming brand new motorcycle but this is dependent on your budget amongst other things. You need to look at your finances and work out whether you can afford to buy new or whether you need to be looking at your second-hand options.

• Decide which motorcycle you want

  Some people will already know exactly which make and model of motorcycle they want when buying a motorcycle. However, others will be more flexible. If you are open to different makes and models at the right price, make a list of features you want from your new motorcycle, such as the engine size and you can then target your search accordingly.

• Compare models and prices

  Whether or not you have a particular make or model in mind, it is important to compare prices on motorcycles before you commit, as there could be a big difference in price based on where you buy from. This is something that you can do online, which means that you don't have to go out of your way to try and find a good deal.

• Safety aspects

  Motorcycles are big, powerful machines so to reduce the risk of accidents and issues, you need to take action to ensure that the motorcycle you buy is safe. This is particularly important if you are buying a used motorcycle from a private buyer, as you do not have the same safety checks and reassurances as you would with a new machine. You can consider employing the services of experts in the motor industry to carry out checks before you commit. Even if you have to pay a little cash for this service, it could save you a fortune in the long run and more importantly could save you from serious accidents resulting from riding a faulty motorcycle.

• Ways to finance your motorcycle

  Whether you buy a new or used motorcycle, the cost is likely to be quite high, so one of the first things you will need to look at is the funding for your purchase. There are a number of different options that you can look at when it comes to funding. You may be lucky enough to have the money in savings to make your purchase outright, otherwise you will need to look at options such as financing from the dealership or a bank loan to make your purchase.

The ongoing costs of owning a motorcycle

Buying the bike is just the start - here's what to budget for:

• Insurance: Motorcycle insurance can vary greatly depending on your bike and location. For instance, we sourced 5 quotes from different insurers and the prices ranged from $660.09 to $1,782.04 (see the customer profile)
• Registration & CTP insurance: Typically $400–$700 per year depending on your state.
• Maintenance & servicing: Around $250–$500 annually for basic services, higher for larger bikes.
• Safety gear: Expect to spend at least $1,000 upfront.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How to buy a used motorcycle in Australia?

  To buy a used motorcycle in Australia, research the model you want, set a budget and check online listings or visit dealerships. Always inspect the bike thoroughly, check its history using the PPSR and take it for a test ride. Ensure all paperwork, including registration and transfer documents, is in order and make sure you have the right motorcycle insurance to protect your investment and stay safe on the road.

• How to buy a first motorcycle?

  When buying your first motorcycle, consider starting with a smaller, more manageable bike (around 250cc-500cc), especially if you are a beginner. Set a budget, research different models and choose one that suits your riding style. Ensure you have the proper motorcycle licence and invest in safety gear.

• What to look for in a second-hand motorbike?

  When buying a second-hand motorbike, check for signs of wear and tear, rust and previous accidents. Inspect the tyres, brakes, chain and engine for any obvious issues. Verify the bike's service history and ensure all paperwork is in order, including checking for any outstanding finance or encumbrances.

• Do I need a motorcycle license in Australia?

  Yes, you need a motorcycle licence to legally ride a motorcycle on public roads in Australia. The type of licence required varies by state and territory and you must pass a series of tests to obtain it.

• What does LAMS mean when buying a motorcycle?

  LAMS stands for Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme. It's an Australian system that lists the bikes learner riders and provisional licence holders are legally allowed to ride. To qualify as LAMS-approved, a motorcycle must:

  • Have an engine capacity of up to 660cc
  • Produce a power-to-weight ratio no greater than 150kW per tonne
  • Not be a modified or high-performance version of a model

  Each state and territory has its own official list of LAMS-approved motorcycles. If you're on your L-plates or P-plates, you'll need to choose a bike from that list until you progress to an unrestricted motorcycle licence.

Picture: Shutterstock

Written by

Matt Corke

Head of Publishing Ventures

Matt Corke is Finder’s head of publishing ventures. Prior to this he was head of publishing for Australia, New Zealand and emerging markets. Matt built his first website in 1999 and has been building computers since he was in his early teens. In that time, he has survived the dot-com crash and countless Google algorithm updates. See full bio

Co-written by

Bria Horne

Writer

Bria Horne was a writer for Finder, with a specialist knowledge of personal loans, car loans and business loans. Originally from the UK, Bria has been a professional personal finance writer in Australia for over 2 years. She has an M.A and B.A in Philosophy and Literature from the University of Sussex, and previously worked on the UK’s leading hospitality publication. See full bio