12-03-2019, 02:44 AM
I'm assuming all your homework was done via the net because you say you saw 9 this morning. There are, of course, lots of variables at play: the overall condition of the bike, mileage, add-ons, did the dealer have to put on new tires because the others were shot, how long the dealer has been selling the bike, etc. But I'd say the main variable that explains the price difference you're finding is simply a sales manager's decision.
One strategy is to ask high and eventually someone will pay close to what they ask. Or ask high and they're ready to "give you a deal" and knock $500 off right away--still a good deal for them. Another strategy is to offer a lower price because it will attract more interest, and then they'll likely stick closer to their asking price. I think that's just the way it works.
For those bikes that are farther away: I'd get on the phone with all those places and throw out some feelers: "hey, I see you've got a 2013 cb1100 for sale, but I'm kinda far away. What's the bike's history, what are the tires looking like, any dents, scratches?" Maybe you ask directly about price flexibility, maybe you simply mention that there are several out there with lower asking prices and give them a chance to respond. At least you'd have more info.
After that, why not go look at a few that are close to you. If you like something that you see but not the price, and the other bikes are simply too far away for you, tell the manager you've looked around, you think a fair price is X amount, and you're willing to buy today if that's the case...and see what happens. And I'd not be shy about offering a 1000 less than their price, maybe even more. It should be a price you really are willing to pay. Remember, you've done your homework by this point. Their answer will let you know how motivated they are to sell.
You've got several things in your favor: 1) it's the low season, and any offer / sale may be welcome by the dealer. 2) you've got time on your side, you can be patient--I think a private seller will get you under 5k more readily, 3) you got multiple bikes to look at, to compare against each other.
You are in a good position with options. Take your time and do some leg work and I'll bet you'll find a great bike at a good price.
Good luck!
One strategy is to ask high and eventually someone will pay close to what they ask. Or ask high and they're ready to "give you a deal" and knock $500 off right away--still a good deal for them. Another strategy is to offer a lower price because it will attract more interest, and then they'll likely stick closer to their asking price. I think that's just the way it works.
For those bikes that are farther away: I'd get on the phone with all those places and throw out some feelers: "hey, I see you've got a 2013 cb1100 for sale, but I'm kinda far away. What's the bike's history, what are the tires looking like, any dents, scratches?" Maybe you ask directly about price flexibility, maybe you simply mention that there are several out there with lower asking prices and give them a chance to respond. At least you'd have more info.
After that, why not go look at a few that are close to you. If you like something that you see but not the price, and the other bikes are simply too far away for you, tell the manager you've looked around, you think a fair price is X amount, and you're willing to buy today if that's the case...and see what happens. And I'd not be shy about offering a 1000 less than their price, maybe even more. It should be a price you really are willing to pay. Remember, you've done your homework by this point. Their answer will let you know how motivated they are to sell.
You've got several things in your favor: 1) it's the low season, and any offer / sale may be welcome by the dealer. 2) you've got time on your side, you can be patient--I think a private seller will get you under 5k more readily, 3) you got multiple bikes to look at, to compare against each other.
You are in a good position with options. Take your time and do some leg work and I'll bet you'll find a great bike at a good price.
Good luck!