How to figure the value of a used motorcycle from a private seller?

Question

I'm interested in a bike from a private seller near where I live. He's asking $5,200. I looked up the bike on Kelly Blue Book and it's valued at $4,600 and in NADA it's valued at $4,100. However, neither of these sites show price based on mileage, only the year. I was hoping to use this as a negotiating tool and I made him an offer higher than both of these values. However, he wouldn't budge on his price and says his is worth more because the bike has very low miles. How do I know what a bike is worth based on miles? Is he being reasonable?

Answer 1

Ok my friend,

First thing you did right was look at the blue book, This gives a ball park price for the bike. Norrmally, The bike would be expected to be any more then this, however milage (LOW) and added chrome ect could increase value.

Next, Type that bike in on the web or ebay, what are others selling it for. That will again give you a comparison.

Last, anything in the world thats for sale, can be priced at whatever somebody is willing to pay. What i mean is a star trek baseball card to the right fan is 1,000.00 to anyone else its trash.

Do you want this bike so bad youll pay that price ? dont let your pride get in the way, If you only want to spend 4,500 on a bike, Then make that offer and if not accepted, move on.

Another way to look at it is to look in the paper, what else could you get for that 4,500 dollars, if they dont compare, then maybe its worth it.

but remember, its your money, have fun and take your time.