I didn’t expect it to be so strange — parting ways with a motorbike I’d had for years. It had taken me through city traffic, weekend rides, and even one dodgy road trip I try not to think about. But eventually, it sat unused for too long, and I figured it was time. Time to sell the bike and move on.
If you’re in that same boat — whether you’re trying to sell your motorbike to free up space, raise some money, or just let go — here’s what helped me through the process.
Sounds obvious, but it helps. Are you done riding? Upgrading? Just want it gone? Being clear on that makes it easier to decide how much effort you want to put in — and how quickly you want to sell your bike.
Clean It, But Don’t Overdo ItNo need to polish every nut and bolt, but a clean bike looks cared for. Give it a wash, wipe the mirrors, and check for little fixes you can handle — like low tyre pressure or a loose mirror. It’s not just about looks — it tells people the bike wasn’t neglected.
Have the Basics ReadyDig out your documents: V5C, any MOT certs, and service records. If you’ve got receipts, even better. You don’t want to be scrambling for them after someone shows interest.
And take a few photos — not over-edited ones. Just clear shots in daylight from a few angles. If there’s a scratch or dent, show it. Honest listings waste less time.
You’ve Got Options — Use the One That Suits YouHere’s the thing: there’s no “best” way to sell your motorbike. It depends on how much time you’ve got and how involved you want to be.
When I was figuring out what my bike was worth, I realized it wasn’t just about mileage or the year. Timing mattered too. Bikes sell faster in spring. A fresh MOT made mine more appealing. And the tyres — funny enough — were a small win because they were nearly new.
Also, don’t forget the service history. Even a scribbled receipt from a local garage can help.
A Word on Safety (If You’re Selling Yourself)Meeting strangers from online listings? Be smart.
It’s your bike — and your call.
Wrapping UpSelling a bike isn’t always about the money. Sometimes it’s just time. And that’s okay. What matters is finding a way that suits you — whether that’s negotiating every pound or just handing over the keys and being done.
If I had to do it again, I’d probably skip the back-and-forth and go with a service like BigMoto. It’s just less stress, and at this point in life, I’ll take easy over drawn-out any day.
Whether you're shopping for your next motorbike, upgrading your gear, or planning a part-exchange, BigMoto is the UK’s fastest-growing retailer of used motorcycles, motorcycle clothing, helmets, and…
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