Motorcycle was stolen, but then returned to the owner years later...?

Question

This guy i know is selling his Yamaha R1. he bought it in 2002 new and was stolen in 2004. Just this year the police found someone riding it in Florida and the bike was returned to him in Michigan.

Now he is selling it and i was thinking that the price should be reduced dramatically because it was stolen. Am i right or does it not matter?

Answer 1

A motorcycle's (Vehicle's) title is branded "salvaged"  30 days after being stolen.

Should the bike ever be recovered it goes to the Insurance company that paid your friend off. If it was paid cash (or paid off) and he wasn't insured then he gets the bike back.

In that case: A Salvaged title devalues the bike up to an additional 50%. To be sure, check with your states DMV.

Answer 2

you're right

Answer 3

it should go for what it's worth or what he wants for it.

stolen or not does not nor should not matter.

Answer 4

the price should reflect the value of the bike determined by condition, mileage and blue book value.

Answer 5

A stolen sport bike?

Ever see a shirt with the words,

"Ride it like you stole it"?

I wouldn't be interested in that bike at any cost and I am surprised the owner wanted it back. He must not have had full insurance coverage or it would have gone to the insurance company that paid him for his loss.

It is unlikely the thief took good care of it, but maybe.

It would have to be in excellent appearing condition to worth the same as a bike that was never stolen, thieves are not famous for babying their equipment.

Answer 6

Well... if he hadn't told you the story, would it matter to you...the price that is?

Answer 7

A sport bike that has not been properly maintained and has been driven hard would have a totally trashed engine. It could easily cut the life of the engine in half. Do you really think the guy who stole the bike did all the proper maintenance and putted around town, or do you think he drove it 150mph on the freeway and never checked the fluids, changed the oil, or lubed the chain?

Seriously, unless he's selling it to you for half the KBB value, don't even consider buying it.

Answer 8

Unless it was damaged, then I guess not.

Answer 9

SO, you can get a deal on a bike.  I think he should price it for what HE wants out of it.  Isn't it HIS bike??

Answer 10

The value of the vehicle is based on the condition now.

Unless there was major damage done to the bike, the fact that it was stolen and recovered does not change the value.

You are incorrect in thinking that the bike is worth less. If you are serious about purchasing it, have it checked (at your expense) by a qualified mechanic to see if it has any damage. If not, do not expect a price reduction.