1. Narrow Down Your Search:
First thing you need to do is figure out what kind of bike your looking for. In most cases guys know what they want, and search that exact bike. If you don't know what bike you want then here are a few articles to help Finding The Correct Bike and 2-Stroke vs 4-Stroke. Once you know which bike you want use craigslist search options to find that bike in your area. Make sure you check other cities close because in some cases its worth a little drive for a better/cheaper bike.
2. Find Out The Truth:
Once you narrowed down your search to a few bikes then it's time to contact the seller. Keep in mind you can't always judge a book by its cover, so I always email the seller and ask a few general questions like how many hours/miles. Then if it still sounds good ask for their number or give them yours so you can find out more before meeting. Most scam artist won't give out their number or put this much time into a sale.
3. Where To Meet:
My personal spot that I always meet on larger ticket items is at the local police station parking lot. If someone isn't willing to go to the police station then you probably don't want to do business with them. If a police station isn't available go to a high traffic public place like Walmart or fast food parking lot. Never I repeat never meet them at your house "They Can See What Else You Have" or go to a place where you can get robbed.
4. Inspecting The Bike:
When it comes to inspecting the bike make sure you go over it good, and I even suggest bringing a friend. Your friend doesn't have money burning a hole in their pocket and is more likely to point out the little things you might miss. If you're meeting at the Police Station then you can't ride the bike unless it is plated, but from there you can go to a place once you feel comfortable with the seller. If there isn't a place to ride make sure you at-least start the bike and make sure its sounds correct.
5. Finding A Price:
Negotiate everything on Craigslist is negotiable. Even if the seller says firm there are ways to get the price down if you're willing to haggle a little.
6. Clean Title:
Make sure when you talk to the seller to have him bring the title with him. If the dirt bike doesn't have a title which some don't depending on your state this isn't a deal breaker. If you live in Indiana check out our article on Buying An Untitled Dirt Bike. If the seller doesn't have a title since your already at the police station have one of the officers run a VIN check to insure it's not stolen.
7. Money Exchange:
I personally don't like to have the money in my pocket unless it's a smaller amount. Try to keep the cash hidden in your truck. Once the seller has signed the title over to you and all paper work is completed then hand over the cash. Once again good to be at a police station or have a buddy.
8. Getting It Home:
This sounds silly but make sure you bring everything you need to the dirt bike home like the following.
- Ramps Or Trailer
- Tie Downs
- Box For Extra Items
- Lock and Chain
Hope this guide helps on buy a dirt bike off craigslist if you have a question feel free to contact me at mark@usdualsports.com Also if you feel something needs added or take out of this guide feel free to contact me to help out our fellow riders.
Other Tips
Other Tips
- Don't take a cashiers check that is over the amount and have give them cash back. With today's printer you can make fake a check. If they can get a cashiers check then they can bring cash.
- Run the VIN before buying the bike. Most places this is free in some cases it cost between 5-10 dollars.
