a little motorcycle pricing help please.....

[dee rob]

I'm about to take the motorcycle safety course in a couple of weeks and I'm ready to start pricing some bikes. There's plenty of info available for used bikes, (blue book, etc.) but almost nothing regarding new bike pricing. I know it's not the same as negotiating a new car, but what kind of discount should I be looking for? I know there are the "hidden" assembly and delivery charges that I'll have to account for, but I'm just trying to get a feel for how to negotiate with these guys. Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

dee

[tplyons]

Harley dealers don't deal. Sometimes they'll come in over sticker price and won't even come down to sticker.

[Croox]

Originally Posted by dee rob

I'm about to take the motorcycle safety course in a couple of weeks and I'm ready to start pricing some bikes. There's plenty of info available for used bikes, (blue book, etc.) but almost nothing regarding new bike pricing. I know it's not the same as negotiating a new car, but what kind of discount should I be looking for? I know there are the "hidden" assembly and delivery charges that I'll have to account for, but I'm just trying to get a feel for how to negotiate with these guys. Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

dee

I'll talk working at a harley dealer

right now they have 883 sportsters at 100/mo
1200 sportsters are 125
most dealers require to put 10% down
you run that price for two years, then it goes up 50 bones for two years then it doubles during the last year of payments
they aren't hidden charges. theres frieght wich motor co charges us. and there is a set up fee which is for the tech uncrating the bike and making it road worthy we dont hide it at my dealer. If you want to get a harley and your not sure on which one to get, alot of dealers run motorcycle rentals, price varies by dealer but its a good way to see if you like the bike if you plan on purchasing. I run the rental program at my dealer, this is just what I know from being around it for the past two years, any other harley related questions pm me and i can get the info for you, I'm not real busy during the week

[dee rob]

Originally Posted by tplyons

Harley dealers don't deal. Sometimes they'll come in over sticker price and won't even come down to sticker.

figures....I've been looking at Buells and unfortunately, there aren't that many used here in Austin.

Croox,

Hidden charges was probably not the best choice of words on my part, point taken. I'm not so concerned with the monthly payment, I'm probably looking at putting at least half down, I was just wondering if sticker was what I should expect to pay. Thanks for the replies guys!

dee

[scottyd]

Most foreign dealors are easier to work with. A lot of them are having cash back specials right now which will help you out. I've got a Yamaha that I had a great experience buying. I went to the dealor back in 2006 with zero down, and got the bike I wanted with the lowest available interest rate and $1000.00 cash back which I used to purchase upgrade parts like pipes, handle bars ect.

If it's your first bike it would be wise to start with a smaller one. Not too small like a 250 but maybe a 600cc Honda Shadow or a Kawasaki Vulcan. That way you can get a good feel for the bike and not have to worry about the extra weight, and usually the smaller ones handle much better too. It's great your taking a safety course. I never did but have been riding for a good while (10 years or so) with no wrecks. As the old saying goes its not if you go down its WHEN you go down.

[mr sprocket]

If you look you can get deal on a used or new harley if you look. Without promoting the company I work for I can say that I see deals come in on a daily basis on new and used vTwin style bikes. You can try looking a cycletrader.com for pricing. Some of the manufacturers require that only list pricing be posted online. Also look for some of the new old stock type bikes 06-07.

[budman]

I've ony bought one new bike from a dealer, my wife's Triumph. They were non-negotiable, but they did have a $1200 incentive package for Triumph merchandise. She got a leather jacket, 2 pairs of gloves, t-shirts, boots, coffee mugs, bike manual, some extra chrome...all kinds of stuff.

[Philbiker]

If this is your first bike, here's some advice:

* Buy used.
* Figure at least $500 for helmet, boots, gloves, jacket, riding pants. NEVER ride without COMPLETELY covering your whole body with armored, padded motorcycle specific gear. Lots of good deals at places like www.newenough.com .
* Look in your local paper and craigslist.
* Good job taking the course, and be careful out there!

I've only once ever bought a new bike, 13 years ago. I still own it at 74K miles. It was substantially marked down by the dealer, a big price tag 12% or so under list price right on the windshield. I paid in full by check so I don't know about financing. I would guess it works a lot like a car.

They will probably want to charge you some nominal fee for assembly. Should be about $200 or so. Some see it as kind of a scam, this is really just part of their cost of doing business, but I personally don't mind paying it.

[JonathanD]

Thanks,
I have been interested also.
Jonathan

[mr sprocket]

The assembly or setup charge is fairly normal. The techs will go over the bike to make sure it is shape to leave. This is especially good when buying a used bike from a dealer. The dealers do not want to run into issues with an unhappy customer with bike trouble after they leave.

[Visirale]

Originally Posted by Philbiker

If this is your first bike, here's some advice:

* Buy used.
* Figure at least $500 for helmet, boots, gloves, jacket, riding pants. NEVER ride without COMPLETELY covering your whole body with armored, padded motorcycle specific gear. Lots of good deals at places like www.newenough.com .
* Look in your local paper and craigslist.
* Good job taking the course, and be careful out there!

I've only once ever bought a new bike, 13 years ago. I still own it at 74K miles. It was substantially marked down by the dealer, a big price tag 12% or so under list price right on the windshield. I paid in full by check so I don't know about financing. I would guess it works a lot like a car.

They will probably want to charge you some nominal fee for assembly. Should be about $200 or so. Some see it as kind of a scam, this is really just part of their cost of doing business, but I personally don't mind paying it.

I remember from when I was looking into a bike reading about spending that much on safety gear... I understand what you say about always wearing the gear. I've seen some bad photos of accidents. Here in Florida during the summer, black top highways can get upwards of 110 degrees. I can't even imagine wearing full gear in that heat. What you guys lack in winter riding time due to iced roads and what not, we make up for with unbearable summer heat. I rarely, if ever see anyone in full gear unless it's less than 60 degrees out. I realized that I wouldn't wear full gear if it was hot, and decided against the bike for several reasons... but I know how important gear is. Anyone considering a bike should make sure they're willing to wear full gear all the time. A bike is just so vulnerable, you're foolish not to wear as much protection as possible. Not to mention the plethora of idiots who ride without helmets around here...

[tplyons]

Originally Posted by Visirale

Anyone considering a bike should make sure they're willing to wear full gear all the time. A bike is just so vulnerable, you're foolish not to wear as much protection as possible. Not to mention the plethora of idiots who ride without helmets around here...

I respectfully disagree, and as one of those foolish people, I can tell you that I seldom ride with more than jeans and a half helmet and riding glasses. Why? Comfort. When riding becomes as enjoyable as putting on the entire closet full of winter coats, long underwear and anything that is deemed safe, it becomes difficult to ride comfortably, ESPECIALLY at stops with a 200 degree engine between your legs cooking you while you bake from the clothing you're wearing.

I'll take my chances with the pavement. I believe that your safety should be a choice, albeit, I still stand behind the helmet. I seldom go without except for the occasional trip between my apartment and the parking lot (legal in Pennsylvania) but greatly oppose the required helmets in New Jersey and many other states.

If you ask me, the safety factor needs to be fixed by education, NOT legislation. People need to be made aware of motorcyclists and other motorists instead of putting on their makeup. Too many people just have no consideration for others.

[NJL]

Originally Posted by budman

I've ony bought one new bike from a dealer, my wife's Triumph. They were non-negotiable, but they did have a $1200 incentive package for Triumph merchandise. She got a leather jacket, 2 pairs of gloves, t-shirts, boots, coffee mugs, bike manual, some extra chrome...all kinds of stuff.

did she get a sprint st??? one of my dream bikes!!!!!

[NJL]

as well guys, it's one thing to break bones, but think about skin grafts, you can get them for as little as 20mph! this week only, 19.95mph!!

t-shirts and jeans are exactly the same as wearing your b-day suit. do some research.

listen to what philbiker is saying, he's been riding for a long time. i have had my Ninja commuter for not even a year (July 14) and i'm at 12,000 miles on this bike, i have seen a lot in those miles and almost been wiped out by dumb asses on cells phones, etc. i never leave home without ATGATT.

please think more intelligently about gearing up, not trying to "look cool" or be a so-called "badass". if it's too hot outside to ride with gear, drive your car, take the bus or even simply drink more water and get into shape. i guess the heat doesn't bother me because i train in a gym without an AC... riding in the heat is actually cool to me.

just please think this over.

[Pilgrim]

Originally Posted by tplyons

If you ask me, the safety factor needs to be fixed by education, NOT legislation. People need to be made aware of motorcyclists and other motorists instead of putting on their makeup. Too many people just have no consideration for others.

I sure understand where you're coming from, but wishing for this is a pipe dream. There are more cars and more traffic every year, and as a result, more incompetent and inattentive drivers. The picture for bikes will only get worse - UNLESS - gas prices force more and more people onto them. Perhaps more bikes on the street would force drivers to look for them more effectively.

I am considering a bike for the first time since I almost lost my left leg on one in 1966 (got hit from behind while turning - no safety gear in the world would have helped) and I'm struggling with the safety gear issue. Riding a bike in summer heat with heavy covering would be like hitting yourself on the head with a hammer - it would feel so good when you stopped.

But there isn't enough money to get me on a bike without a helmet. A basic half-helmet saved my life in 1966. IMO Harleys are ridiculous in price, but a Vulcan or Shadow would be fun.

[NJL]

this is from another site:

"Again, I will refer to "Proficient Motorcycling" which will tell you..sic

Above 98.6 (your body temp) the fast moving air on a bike emulates a "convection oven" and actually pump more heat into your body than you can get rid of by sweating. In dry environments,at leat, you simply cannot sweat fast enough to shed heat. A jacket will keep some of the perspiration on your skin, where it helps cooling your body."

This is seems true, on my commute home yesterday after work (just like everyday), i was wearing a mesh jacket, over pants, motorcycle boots, gloves and helmet... it was sunny and about 97 degrees outside. Although I wasn't cool, i wasn't melting and about to pass out. Earlier in the day, i was out in the sun for about 3 hours, t-shirt and shorts... i was dying and felt a little weak at times (another story, i wasn't hydrated well enough).. yeah apples and oranges, but maybe if it will get some of your goobs to think a little more about this, maybe i'm helping someone.. who knows.

[Visirale]

Originally Posted by tplyons

I respectfully disagree, and as one of those foolish people, I can tell you that I seldom ride with more than jeans and a half helmet and riding glasses. Why? Comfort. When riding becomes as enjoyable as putting on the entire closet full of winter coats, long underwear and anything that is deemed safe, it becomes difficult to ride comfortably, ESPECIALLY at stops with a 200 degree engine between your legs cooking you while you bake from the clothing you're wearing.

I'll take my chances with the pavement. I believe that your safety should be a choice, albeit, I still stand behind the helmet. I seldom go without except for the occasional trip between my apartment and the parking lot (legal in Pennsylvania) but greatly oppose the required helmets in New Jersey and many other states.

If you ask me, the safety factor needs to be fixed by education, NOT legislation. People need to be made aware of motorcyclists and other motorists instead of putting on their makeup. Too many people just have no consideration for others.

Oh don't get me wrong. I agree with you. If I had a bike, there'd be NO way I'd wear a full jacket. I'd be drenched with sweat before I got anywhere, every time.

I also agree that safety should be a choice. I also think that one would be foolish not to be as safe as possible on a bike. Even the most competent rider in the world can do nothing to avoid errors from other drivers. I have been paying extra special attention for bikers since I almost got into it. It just opened my eyes to it. I can't say the same for everyone else on the road, and frankly I wouldn't like to put my life in their hands.

I'm a speed addict (on closed courses), and I'm sure I'll allow myself to own a bike someday (probably gonna sell my car and get a bike once I move to NYC after undergrad) but the thought of being out there so utterly vulnerable is as scary as it is liberating. All it takes is for one other person to not be on their A game and it can all be over. And sure, this rule applies to cars, but cars have all sorts of safety equipment if anything goes wrong. On a bike, it's you, the bike, and the road.

Definitely not trying to convert anyone since I wouldn't even wear a jacket if I had a bike... I just know that a lot of people are switching over to bikes because of the mileage and not thinking about the safety risks involved.

[tplyons]

Originally Posted by Visirale

Oh don't get me wrong. I agree with you. If I had a bike, there'd be NO way I'd wear a full jacket. I'd be drenched with sweat before I got anywhere, every time.

I also agree that safety should be a choice. I also think that one would be foolish not to be as safe as possible on a bike. Even the most competent rider in the world can do nothing to avoid errors from other drivers. I have been paying extra special attention for bikers since I almost got into it. It just opened my eyes to it. I can't say the same for everyone else on the road, and frankly I wouldn't like to put my life in their hands.

I'm a speed addict (on closed courses), and I'm sure I'll allow myself to own a bike someday (probably gonna sell my car and get a bike once I move to NYC after undergrad) but the thought of being out there so utterly vulnerable is as scary as it is liberating. All it takes is for one other person to not be on their A game and it can all be over. And sure, this rule applies to cars, but cars have all sorts of safety equipment if anything goes wrong. On a bike, it's you, the bike, and the road.

Definitely not trying to convert anyone since I wouldn't even wear a jacket if I had a bike... I just know that a lot of people are switching over to bikes because of the mileage and not thinking about the safety risks involved.

And I agree with everything you've said here. I'm no real speed freak, there's a reason I bought a Sportster 883. Smallest engine Harley makes (and I've wanted a Harley since I was a little kid) Still has enough oomph to get up to 100 and get out of hairy situations, but not enough to let me do anything TOO stupid.

When I'm driving a cage, I'll do everything I can to run interference for bikers. It's a lot easier to see a big black El Camino than a little bike, so I do what I can for bikers and I hope others would do the same.

[budman]

Originally Posted by NJL

did she get a sprint st??? one of my dream bikes!!!!!

Speedmaster.

[flakeh]

Originally Posted by dee rob

figures....I've been looking at Buells and unfortunately, there aren't that many used here in Austin.

Croox,

Hidden charges was probably not the best choice of words on my part, point taken. I'm not so concerned with the monthly payment, I'm probably looking at putting at least half down, I was just wondering if sticker was what I should expect to pay. Thanks for the replies guys!

dee

Excellent, I can rant for a bit!

First, I assume this is your first bike? If so. Close all pages looking at buells, busa's, gixxers. Anything over 250cc. First bike, You don't need that 750 or even 1200 street machine. You will get head over heals on that and mess yourself, and the bike right up. I would suggest the new Kawi Ninja 250's, but they are on a 60,000 bike backorder. Look around for some old used honda 250s, Even give Hyosung a looksee. I have a Hyosung GT250 on the way next week and I am super stoked. All in all, as a first bike, you don't wanna learn on a supersport, or anything With RR in the name. Stay away.

Second, riding gear!
Buy riding gear first! Before you even book for the MSF course, get helmet, gloves, boots jacket and pants. You will thank yourself when you drop it, and trust me, if its your first bike, you will. Please get your gear before the bike. If you do it the other way around, you might not have enough left over to buy all the gear, Then you'll be in a world of pain if you fall.

Any more questions just PM me or post here, I was in the same boat as you and I did a TON of research.


EDIT**

To all you riders who ride with no gear other then helmets, please check out ride2die.com. Don't be a squid, wear riding gear when you ride. When skin meets asphalt, the asphalt wins. If you wear running shoes, you run the risk of having your feet chewed up. Good luck walking after that.

And give this 'comfort' bs. With the mesh jackets they have out these days, comfort is easily obtained. Hell, I wear a 2 pc riding suit. It is very comfortable. When I took my safety course, I rode in all leathers, and when I spilled, I didn't get a mark on me, but when the guy with just the bucket spilled, he had to go to the hospital.

http://home1.gte.net/res0ak9f/1accident147.jpg thats what happens when you don't wear riding gear.

Sorry for the rant, but squids are the reason my insurance in so damn high for my bike. Companies don't wanna insure people who don't wear riding gear.