I have made the excruciating decision that I am going to have to sell my bike (she has to help me to get to Oz where I will be a poor student for a couple of years).

Personally, I would not want to buy a bike that I haven't actually test riden (or at least gotten a mate to ride). But, this being my first bike, I am not 100% sure how to handle the sale. It goes without saying, the money has to be in my hand before any rider takes her around the block... but what about the insurance being invalidated by an unnamed rider being on her (I don't like to tempt fate). And (gasp!) what if someone did put her down on the test ride, is it a case of 'you break it you buy it'?

What is the best way for me to handle the sale? Can anyone walk me through it?
Ta!

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Just some advice that might be usefull. Where I work we sell bikes, some of them quite expensive and high powered. Lots of people come by and want to test ride them. The best thig is to talk with them a bit (chat them up over tea?) find out if they really are prepared money wise to buy it. Then ask them if they have read all about the bike on the internet. If it is legal for you, give them a ride on the back seat. After all this if they are still interested take them to a large area like a not currently used parking lot even if it has to be early in the morning and watch them ride around while not actuly being on the road. It all can be a bit risky but that is part of life.

At the end of the day if someone takes it for a test ride and doesn't return, or (worse) hits someone whilst on it (happened - they didn't stop. my numberplate... hello Mr Policeman), you have to make sure you are not screwed.

Most people with bikes have "riders" - this allows them to ride any bike 3rd party, as long as they have permission. Its always clearly stated on their policy.... YOUR policy will not cover them (unless its business / a bloody good one) and speeding tickets on the doormat 2 weeks later are a pain in the arse as well.... By law the onus is on the RIDER, not the owner.... however, to show "due diligence" you have to have a squiz at their insurance documents. not a problem to anyone who has it.

Insist on the asking price as a deposit - cash. Its common policy with bikers - that way if it goes wrong for them, you're ok. Any serious buyer will not have a problem with it, but will often look at the bike, and reserve it subject to test ride. If you're not lying about the bike, its not a problem for you

Its a very good idea to grab a p/copy of their driving licence. at the very least take their address and driver number.

all in an ideal world. Often you have to meet them in the middle. take them for a long pillion ride (DON'T get on the back of them!). Use your judgement(If they leave you in charge of their child, chances are they are genuine), if they refuse and you don't 100%, totally, absolutely 100% trust them, tough. For them there will be another bike / mug, for you there will be another buyer. .A genuine buyer will also like your "do it safe / correctly" attitude, and bizarrely it will give the bike MORE favour.... (if you loved her you wouldn't let just anyone ride her, would you...?) Timewasters and test pilots will just get lost and prey on another idiot. Just make sure you tell people on the phone what they need before they drive 100 miles to see you.....

Saying that when i go and look at a bike, i expect to be able to wobble round the block on it.... i always ask. if i want the bike, and am refused the test ride, it won't rule out the bike, i just reserve and reappear with the cash a couple of days later.

Give receipts for everything, detailing what its for (returnable deposit for approval test ride etc). Don't let the bike out of your sight without cleared funds. Even building society cheques can (and are) forged. If they want it there and then, go to the bank with them. (and if they go white when you suggest it... NO DEAL!) If they want something more than a reciept for leaving a deposit, give them the bikes papers, but NOT the keys.)

Unlikely for a dommie (sorry, i know you love her...) but if properly expensive tackle, never show how / where its locked down, and borrow a dog to have knocking round the place..... just in case...

sounds paranoid. but the UK used bike market is FULL of sharks. Luckily, pretty dim ones (generally.... touch wood!)

hope it helps.

dan

have to agree with scdan3, good answer, would it also be idea to take a digital photo of them next to your bike, with the reg. number in the picture, prior to them riding?
Plus if they did buy it, you would have a good picture to keep of your beloved bike, with the next owner.
Bill

Thank you all for the good advice and detailed replies - much appreciated.

I guess I am going to have to practice pillioning my biggest mate (it won't be a good start to have the would-be buyer being my first pillion! Better hope it's a weeny girl)

I certainly agree that an owner who shows concern for their bike is probably not just trying to take your cash & run, so that bodes well in my favour.
A digi pic of the potential buyer & my bike and getting all their details is a good idea, and excellent tip for me to check that their own insurance covers them to ride any other bike (I think even my cheap insurance allows me to do that). And if taking all their details and a deposit doesn't make them squirm too much, then they must be at least a serious shopper.

Even as a Saffa I would not have thought about the buggers who scope out 2nd hand bikes just to nick them a little while later (I must be getting soft).

I will be sure to secure small children as surety and chat up all potential buyers

Thanks everyone!
(glad I was paranoid and asked the question)

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