(vanity) Suggestions on best ways to let a stranger test-drive a motorcycle?

5/1/03 | Marty F.

[martin_fierro]

Hi all ~~

Mrs. Fierro and I are selling a motorcycle (NOT mine -- hers) and a few people have expressed interest in coming to see it/test drive it.

Have any FReepers ever sold a motorcycle to a stranger? If so, how did you handle the test drive issue delicately (getting the bike back WITHOUT alienating the buyer)?

[martin_fierro]

Your thoughts, please!

[martin_fierro]

	FReeper Motorcycle Hooligan
Send FReepmail if you want on/off FMH list

[Bikers4Bush]

Ask to hold their drivers license. Anyone who's serious about the bike won't mind and will probably expect it.

It serves two purposes, the first is that you obviously know who they are, where they live etc. if the bike doesn't come back.

Second, you can scan it real quick to make sure they have a motorcycle endorsement (assuming your state requires one) so you know you won't get a call from the cops letting you know that they've impounded your bike because they found someone riding it who wasn't licensed to do so.

You can also offer to ride along with them if you have another bike and aren't comfortable with having them take the one you're selling out alone.

If all esles fails ask for the keys to the vehicle they showed up in.

[JoeSixPack1]

Check all the licenses first of course, then act terribly scared to let them take it out for a test ride. And then no test ride till there is cash shown.

Then, and only then, Follow on your bike and set the area where the bike can go. One false turn and get them off the bike.

Also, depending on your area, do not have them come to your home where the bike is stored. Meet at one of your friends houses so they don't decide to come back and steal it.

But, martin, you drive rice, so just sell it to the first jerk!! :-)

*<:-)~~~~

[martin_fierro]

LOL!

I can always count on you for that warm, fuzzy feeling. <|:)~

[j_tull]

Is your concern theft or competence? For competence, I simply insure they have a motorcycle endorsement on their license or an MSF course card. If no endorsement or permit, judgement call, you can usually tell by the way someone sits on a bike whether it is a familiar experience. As far as theft, when I sold my Vulcan, I had the guy leave his license with me while he took it for a ride. Glad to hear you're not selling that sweet lookin' AceT!

[JoeSixPack1]

ROFL!!!

But, but, but, I love you, man!!!

*<:-)~~~

[j_tull]

http://www.goingfaster.com/angst

[bmwcyle]

Donate the bike to charity and write it off.

[Tijeras_Slim]

What kind of bike are you selling?

[martin_fierro]

Is your concern theft or competence?

BOTH! <|:)~

...when I sold my Vulcan...

Which Vulcan did you have? Year? Ours is a 2001 VN750, VERY low mileage. LOADS of nice features, but too much bike for her.

Glad to hear you're not selling that sweet lookin' AceT!

LOL! THANKS! Yeah, I plan to hold onto that one for quite a few years.

[martin_fierro]

2001 Kaw Vulcan 750 -- VEY low miles <|:)~

Unsuccessful Ebay auction here (to be relisted for auction next week)

[JoeSixPack1]

Down boy!

Me and old M_F have been at it for a long time! :-)

[martin_fierro]

But, but, but, I love you, man!!!

Please stop doing that to my leg. <|:P~

[JoeSixPack1]

Wasn't me!

But your pants do stink and now they're wet too! :-)

[j_tull]

Mine was a 91 VN750 with 7000 miles!

[j_tull]

What's yer point, bro?

[martin_fierro]

LOL! Funny site!!

Unsuccessful Ebay auction & bike photos here

What color was your bike? Any accessories? What are you riding now?

[martin_fierro]

PEACE, muh brethren! <|:)~

Or failing that, PIECE!

[chemicalman]

I almost bought a new Vulcan at the dealership, but got the price down on a Suzuki Volusia. Lower bike and shaft drive...love it.