Why Wholesale Motorcycles are the Heartbeat of the Market
Wholesale motorcycles are the blood and bones of the world of motorcycle dealerships, motorcycle rental fleets, and even successful individual sellers. This part of the industry works in the background and supplies the inventory that ultimately gets to people. The wholesale market is a huge opportunity for people with the right access and knowledge to buy bikes at very competitive prices.
What Exactly Are Wholesale Motorcycles?
Wholesale motorcycles are generally either new or used bicycles sold in quantity or at a very low price, much lower than the Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). These are not the transactions that are targeting the general population but are restricted to the licensed dealers and exporters and the other businesses that are registered to operate in the automotive industry. The only main purpose is to shift high levels of inventory within a short time between the businesses.
Common Sources for Wholesale Bikes
The market is largely understood by knowing the origin of these bikes.
- Trade-Ins: Franchised dealerships frequently accept used bikes as trade-ins to new models. Some are sold on their own property, but most of these are auctioned off to release capital and space.
- Off-Lease / Repossessions: Motorcycles are often sold by financial institutions who have repossessed them after a lease period, or have been returned because of late payments.
- Fleet and Rental Company Liquidations: Companies such as EagleRider sell fleets (or even local rental outfits) of well-maintained, but high-mileage bikes in large volumes.
How to Access the Wholesale Market
The most important challenge most people face is entry. The first one is the licensed motorcycle auctions.
- Dealer-Only Auctions: The biggest networks (such as Manheim or ADESA) will need a valid dealer license issued by a state to be a member of the auction.
- Online Auction Platforms: Some websites, such as eBay Motors, do include dealer lots or a wholesale section, however checking the authenticity of the seller is paramount.
- Brokers: There are people or corporations that are brokers who bid with a dealer license on behalf of the clients at a fee.
Important Risks and Considerations
There are challenges facing the wholesale market.
- The As-Is Nature of Sales: Almost all wholesale motorcycles are sold on an as-is, where-is basis with no warranty or guarantee of any kind.
- Expertise It needs: To be successful, you must either have this kind of deep mechanical knowledge or you must have a reliable mechanic to do the pre-purchase inspections to ensure you do not purchase a machine that has issues.
- Licensing and Legal Hurdles: Even in the titling and resale of wholesale vehicles, there are certain laws that are to be adhered to the letter.
Conclusion
The wholesale motorcycle market is an essential backbone of the industry, offering incredible value but demanding expertise and proper credentials. It is a powerful tool for licensed dealers and businesses to build profitable inventory, but it remains a complex and potentially risky arena for the unprepared casual buyer. For those with the right access and knowledge, however, it is the key to unlocking the best deals on two wheels.
