Total Motorcycle Community Forums

This thread has been very helpful to me. I'm in the same situation as the OP, looking for my first bike. I've been watching Ebay on some Ninja 250s, but most end up going for over 2400. Add about 600 for shipping, and that's a 3000 bike (used), when I can get a new 250 for only 3500 off the dealer floor (if I pay MSRP).

The dealer where I live has (or had about a week ago) an 07 Ninja 500, brand new. The guy told me it had been sitting on the floor for over a year, and the price was still at 5000. I would rather start on a 250, but I'm finding that they're a rare kind of bike to find in my area. So, if I could offer the dealer 1000 down (which I can), would that give me any extra negotiating power? I'm thinking that if it's still there and if it has been sitting that long, surely they'd be wanting to get rid of it at this point. That can't be good for inventory to have an 07 bike on the floor when 09's are going to be released soon (I think some have been already). I've sat on it, it's nice, just my size. I did "fall in love" with it, but I wasn't in the buying mood when I visited, and the guy knew it. So maybe now I can start pushing a little?

If the 500's still there, should I try to grab it? Thanks for all the advice!

G_Seattle wrote:I am a total newbie when it comes to bike, and even though I read on the forum that used bikes are better for novices, I was wondering if you can negotiate the price of a new bike at a dealership. I guess just like you would if you were buying a car. If you can negotiate, what realistic discount should I expect?
Thanks!

Any bike can be negotiated. A lot depends on the time of year and if the bike is brand new or a left over.

You can either get the asking price down or free accessories, like helmits, windshields or gloves.

You have to stand your ground as long as you feel you are being fare.
At the beginning of the season, Feb., March, April, the dealer won't be too flexable on the new models, but he may be with his leftover bikes.
I've alwasy found them very flexable around October and November. They're trying to lighten up the inventory.

So before you negotiate, know what you are doing and do your homework.

Just remember, the salesman doesn't want to loose his commission.