Buying & ownership
Inspecting a used bike before you buy, choosing between a dealer and an independent shop, and finding a mechanic you can trust.
- Basic motorcycle tool kit: what to keep at home and on the roadBuild a basic motorcycle tool kit: the home garage essentials, a compact on-the-bike kit, tire and electrical gear, and which jobs to leave to a professional.6 min read
- How to buy a used motorcycle: a step-by-step guideHow to buy a used motorcycle step by step: set a real budget, pick the right bike, vet the seller and paperwork, inspect, negotiate and close the deal safely.6 min read
- How to sell a motorcycle: prep, price, paperwork and paymentHow to sell a motorcycle privately or to a dealer: prep and price it, write a good listing, screen buyers, handle the title and payment, and protect yourself.6 min read
- How to ship a motorcycle: methods, cost factors and prepHow to ship a motorcycle safely: compare carriers and methods, understand what drives the price, prep the bike, check insurance and inspect it on delivery.8 min read
- Is a motorcycle extended warranty worth it? How to decideIs a motorcycle extended warranty worth it? Learn how service contracts work, what they cover and exclude, what they cost, and how to decide before you sign.5 min read
- Motorcycle bill of sale: what to include and when you need oneWhat a motorcycle bill of sale is, what to include, when your state may require one, and how it differs from the title, with a checklist for buyers and sellers.6 min read
- Motorcycle cost of ownership: what a bike really costsMotorcycle cost of ownership explained: purchase, insurance, gear, fuel, maintenance, tires and repairs, with a budgeting worksheet and ways to save money.5 min read
- Motorcycle service records: what to keep and why they matterMotorcycle service records explained: what to keep, how to organize paper and digital files, and how records help resale value and warranty claims.5 min read
- Motorcycle VIN check: free and paid tools, and what they missHow to run a motorcycle VIN check: where to find the VIN, free NICB, NHTSA and NMVTIS options, what each shows, what they miss, and how to verify it in person.6 min read
- What is high mileage for a motorcycle? It depends on the bikeWhat is high mileage for a motorcycle? See how engine type, use and maintenance change the answer, plus what to check on a high-mileage bike before you buy.6 min read
- How to find a good motorcycle mechanic you can trustHow to find a good motorcycle mechanic: where to look, how to vet a shop before you need it, questions to ask, red flags, and what to do if a repair goes wrong.6 min read
- Dealer vs independent motorcycle shop: which is better?Dealer vs independent motorcycle shop: compare cost, expertise, warranty, parts and convenience, and see which is the better fit for your bike and the job.6 min read
- Used motorcycle inspection checklist before you buyA step-by-step used motorcycle inspection checklist: paperwork, frame, engine, brakes, tires, electrics and test ride, plus red flags that mean walk away.6 min read