How to Avoid Motorcycle Selling Scams
Selling and buying a bike should be straightforward, but the possibility of encountering scams adds a layer of stress to an otherwise easy process. From time-wasters to genuinely fraudulent buyers, a simple sale can end up being costly and distressing if you don’t see the red flags.
Given that most bike scams follow similar patterns, there are some key things to look out for before you go ahead and search ‘sell my bike online’. Here’s how to avoid motorcycle selling scams, and some key red flags that point to a scam.
Common Motorcycle Selling Scams
Fake Bank Transfer Confirmations
One of the most common scams involves a buyer pretending they’ve sent money, but they haven’t. They might send a screenshot of a bank transfer that looks convincing and say that the fact you haven’t gotten the money must be a problem on your end. You might even trust the screenshot without checking your online banking, which is when things get really problematic. Never take a buyer’s word for it that they’ve paid you - check your bank account for proof.
Test Ride Theft
Some criminals pose as genuinely interested buyers, then drive the vehicle away during a test drive. Don’t hand over the keys without some sort of deposit/security to ensure your bike will be returned.
Counterfeit Cash
In a lot of scenarios, cash is still exchanged for private purchases. Some fraudsters will use counterfeit cash, so check carefully or consider using a secure bank transfer instead. This is why a bike valuation and sale through a verified third party is always the best way forward.
Online Phishing Messages
A common scam involves fraudsters claiming to be a courier service or official marketplace. These emails or text typically contain links that are designed to steal details, such as passwords or banking info.
Don’t click on links unless they’re genuine, and check that the URL in email addresses matches a company’s official website.
Common Motorcycle Buying Scams
Fake Service History
Service books can be altered or even faked entirely. Look for consistent paperwork and don’t be afraid to ask for specifics or request further proof.
Cloned Motorcycles
A cloned motorcycle is a bike that has been given the identity of another legally registered bike, but it’s been stolen. The best way to avoid this scam is to carry out vehicle history checks and make sure the paperwork all matches.
Hidden Damage
A common scam that many buyers (even otherwise legit ones!) will try is to hide or downplay damage. Cosmetic repairs can hide structural issues that a seller may not disclose. Inspect the bike carefully and ask for a full service history to avoid issues.
Fake Motorcycle Listing
Some fraudsters will actually upload a motorcycle listing for a bike that they don’t actually own in the hope of receiving a bank transfer for a bike that will never come. They’ll use stolen photographs and descriptions and typically offer a great deal to get a speedy sale.
If it seems too good to be true, it may well be. Ask to see the bike in person or take it for a spin before handing over money.
Is There a Safe Way to Sell?
The good news is that by purchasing or selling a bike through a third-party that offers a ‘we buy any bike’ service, you can avoid scammers and time wasters. You won’t have to answer enquiries or organise a ton of admin, either.
When wondering, ‘how do I sell my bike online?’, services like BigMoto provide a safe, secure, and easy option, without the risk of dodgy dealers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does We Buy Any Bike mean?
If you encounter a service like BigMoto that promises ‘we buy any bike’ - they do what they say on the tin. You can sell a bike of any make, model, or condition to the third-party site; they even offer part exchange as payment toward a new one.
How to get a bike valuation?
The most straightforward and quickest way to get an accurate bike valuation is to use BigMoto’s online bike valuation tool. You simply enter the reg and mileage and get the best offer within minutes.
What’s the best way to sell my bike online?
A service with a ‘we buy any bike’ offer is the best way to sell your bike online. At BigMoto, we offer a bike valuation within seconds. No more private sales, back-and-forth and time wasters or worse.
Once you’ve gotten your valuation, simply confirm your sale and schedule a collection. If you’re looking to buy a new bike, we’ve also got a vast selection of new and used bikes for sale, with a range of makes and models for whatever you’ve got your eye on. No need to vet or watch out for scams - just a quick, simple process that will have you wondering why you didn’t do it sooner.