Should you buy a new or used motorcycle?

What to consider when buying a new vs. used motorcycle

There are several key factors to weigh when choosing between a new and used bike:

Cost

A new motorcycle generally costs more than a used motorcycle. Here are the listed prices for a few of the most popular new models in the U.S. in 2025:

• 2025 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager: starting at $20,199
• 2025 Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX ABS: starting at $13,699
• 2025 Harley Davidson Softail®Heritage Classic: starting at $22,999
• 2025 Harley Davidson Breakout: starting at $23,099

If you buy used, here's a sampling of the pricing for three desired brands in 2025:

• 2013 Honda CBR600RR: typical listing price of $9,495 (KBB)
• 2007 Yamaha FZ1: typical listing price of $4,680 (KBB)
• 2006 Triumph Speed Triple: typical listing price of $5,505 (KBB)

The cost of motorcycle insurance and maintenance will also factor into the total cost of owning a motorcycle. These costs can vary greatly depending on your age, riding history, type of bike, safety features and other components, so it's important to research more than just the listed price.

Condition

Motorcycle owners often make modifications by swapping out parts and tuning them up. Buying a used motorcycle means you might be purchasing a bike that has been modified or has had significant repairs due to an accident.

If you don't mind a motorcycle that isn't in its original condition, buying used can be an easy way to reduce costs. However, if you're worried about long-term damage or expensive repairs down the line, buying new gives you a blank slate.

Also consider the climate in which the previous owner stored the bike. If you buy a motorcycle from a dealer, new motorcycles are typically stored indoors, away from the elements. If you're purchasing a used motorcycle, it's important to know if it has been stored inside or left outside in potentially damaging weather.

Safety

New motorcycles may have more safety features than older models. Newer models may have traction control, different riding modes, and more. Many riders want the most up-to-date safety features to compensate for the higher risk.

If you're buying an older model of motorcycle and don't want to sacrifice safety, keep an eye out for those that have anti-lock brakes and adaptive headlights.

New vs. used motorcycle: Pros and cons

Buying either a new and used motorcycle has its benefits and drawbacks:

New motorcycle pros

• Updated safety features
• Knowledge of its condition
• Often includes a warranty

New motorcycle cons

• Often more expensive
• Sharp post-purchase depreciation
• Higher costs for replacement parts

Used motorcycle pros

• Lower cost
• Less depreciation
• Spare parts may be more available

Used motorcycle cons

• Outdated safety technology
• Potential maintenance issues
• May not have a warranty

Insurance for new vs. used motorcycles

As with auto insurance, your cost for motorcycle insurance partially depends on the type of motorcycle you're insuring—which means newer motorcycles often cost more to insure than older bikes. Your bike's safety features, theft rate, and the cost of replacement factor into your motorcycle policy's rate.

While you can buy a motorcycle without insurance, it's illegal in nearly every state to ride without liability coverage. Note that if you're financing a new bike, your lender typically requires you to carry motorcycle comprehensive coverage and motorcycle collision coverage.

Find out if you need motorcycle insurance and what motorcycle insurance covers.

Insure your new or used motorcycle with Progressive