[Louis]

Darn budget, and to make it worst, the Taxes ware coming...

I've been trying to find a used bike for this year's riding period. Looks like my budget will be pretty tight, maybe around $2000 Cdn (about $1500 US). Do you people think I can get a reasonable bike for that amount? More into the standard type (like a GS500) preferably. The intent would be to use it a year, maintain it properly, maybe even paint it to make it more attractive (read more easy to resell) and then sell it the year after for the same amount (if not more). Sounds liek a good plan? Can it be done? Worth it? Or should I just forget about it for another year?

 

[87gsxrnut]

Factory paint schemes sell easier than custom jobs, especially on a cheaper bike.

$1,500 should be more than enough to get something decent.

- Nut

 

[sime]

totally agree with nut, i would never buy a bike with non factory paintwork

 

[Clint]

Bikes in good condition over about 5 years old don't depreciate much. You definately get your money's worth. I had my Nighthawk for 5 years and sold it for $400 less than I paid for it.

 

[sime]

Louis,

Don't know how relevant this article is (see link) but it may be of some interest. Naturally prices are all AUD, and the bike in question is a little different, but as for buying 2nd hand there is a message in there somewhere - you'll spend more on it after you buy it...

http://bikepoint.ninemsn.com.au/reviews/BikeTestmain.asp?bikeID=119141

 

[Louis]

That was a good read, thanks. Although we all know that stuff it nice to have it reminded to us.

 

[Louis]

I've started my search for a used bike, I've ran searches through the Bike Trader and found 3 SVs in Ontario, 0 in Quebec, 0 GS500 in either provinces.

Man, that's tough. I've seen a nice GS400 but I want/need a bike with bigger CC because of the class of my license. I could buy it and pass my final exam on a 400+ bike but that would defeat the purpose of getting acquainted with my real one. I'd rather know the bike well to pass the test.

I'm not giving up just yet.

 

[Nozoki]

Well, I have to tell you about my new bike. I just bought a 92 GS500E in FANTASTIC condition. Only 9800 miles on her. The owner had just installed heated grips and a $300 Givi monokey rack and suitcase on the back. Paid $1600 for it. Now if it would just warm up enough to ride. Good luck on your search.