Which Motorcycle Brand Has the Highest Resale Value?
When buying a motorcycle, one of the most important factors to consider is how well it will hold its value over time. Knowing which brands maintain their worth is key for riders who like to upgrade their bikes or simply want to make smart financial decisions. Below, we’ll explore which motorcycle brands have the highest resale value and why they stand out in the market.
What Is Motorcycle Resale Value?
Motorcycle resale value refers to how much a motorcycle is worth when you decide to sell it after owning it for a while. Some bikes hold their value better than others, meaning you can sell them for a higher percentage of what you originally paid. Resale value is influenced by factors like the brand, model, condition, and overall demand for the bike in the market.
Why Does it Matter?
Understanding resale value is important because it affects how much money you can get back when it’s time to sell or trade in your bike. A higher resale value means you’ll lose less money over time, making your initial purchase a smarter investment. This is especially helpful if you plan to upgrade to a different bike in the future or if you're looking to get the most out of your current bike when it's time to move on.
4 Motorcycle Brands Known for High Resale Value
When thinking about resale value, a few motorcycle brands consistently stand out. Let’s explore some of the top brands known for high resale value and a few popular models that are in demand.
1. Harley-Davidson
Harley-Davidson is a brand with a loyal following, which plays a big part in its strong resale value. Known for their classic designs and customizability, Harley-Davidson bikes are often seen as long-term investments. Riders appreciate the brand’s reputation for durability, which keeps demand high in the used market.
Some models with high resale value include:
Harley-Davidson Street Glide: This touring bike is known for its comfort and iconic style. It’s a top choice for those who want a bike that’s great for long rides and holds its value well.
Harley-Davidson Road King: With its timeless look and dependable performance, the Road King is always in demand, helping it maintain strong resale value.
Harley-Davidson Sportster 883: This smaller, more affordable Harley is popular with new riders and those looking to customize, keeping its resale value solid.
2. BMW
BMW motorcycles are known for their advanced engineering and long-lasting performance. Many BMW bikes are built for adventure or touring, and their ability to handle long rides and tough conditions makes them a great choice for riders who want a bike that will last. This durability helps BMW models keep their value over time.
High-resale models include:
BMW R 1250 GS: This adventure bike is known for its power and versatility. Riders love it because it’s built to handle both highways and rougher terrain, keeping its demand high.
BMW F 850 GS: Another adventure model, the F 850 GS is a well-balanced bike that’s great for both on-road and off-road riding, which helps it stay popular in the used market.
BMW K 1600 GT: A premium touring bike, the K 1600 GT offers top-tier comfort and performance, making it a strong contender in the resale market for long-distance riders.
3. Honda
Honda has built a reputation for reliability, and that’s one of the main reasons its bikes hold their value. Honda motorcycles are known for being dependable, easy to maintain, and great for a variety of riding styles, which makes them a popular choice in the used market.
Models with high resale value include:
Honda Gold Wing: The Gold Wing is a favorite for long-distance touring, offering comfort and reliability, which keeps it in demand among buyers looking for a dependable tourer.
Honda CRF450R: A top pick in the dirt bike world, the CRF450R is well-known for its off-road performance, helping it stay valuable even after tough use.
Honda CBR600RR: This sportbike offers a mix of speed and reliability, making it a popular option for riders who want performance without sacrificing durability, which boosts its resale value.
4. Ducati
Ducati is known for its stylish, high-performance motorcycles, and that reputation helps its bikes hold their value. Riders looking for something fast, sleek, and premium are often drawn to Ducati, keeping demand strong in the resale market.
Top resale models include:
Ducati Panigale V4: With its cutting-edge technology and high-speed performance, the Panigale V4 is a sought-after model, keeping its resale value high.
Ducati Monster 821: The Monster 821 combines performance with everyday usability, making it a popular choice among riders who want a fun and reliable bike, which helps it retain value.
Ducati Scrambler Icon: With its retro design and versatility, the Scrambler Icon appeals to a wide range of riders, keeping it in demand in the used market.
How to Estimate a Motorcycle’s Resale Value Before Buying
Estimating a motorcycle’s resale value before buying can help you make a more informed decision and get the most value out of your investment. There are a few key ways to do this:
Using industry guides and market data is a great starting point. Resources like Kelley Blue Book or online motorcycle marketplaces provide estimates on current values for specific models. These guides give you a rough idea of what a bike might be worth in a few years, based on its current price and the typical depreciation rate for that model. Checking resale listings can also give you an idea of how much people are actually paying for similar bikes in the used market.
It’s also important to research depreciation trends by brand and model. Some brands and models tend to depreciate faster than others. Looking at how a specific bike has held its value over time can help you project what its resale value might be down the road. Brands known for reliability and demand typically see slower depreciation, meaning they retain more of their value compared to other brands.
Consider the mileage, condition, and model year when estimating resale value. Bikes with lower mileage and in better condition generally hold their value better than those with higher miles or wear and tear. Newer models will also tend to have a higher resale value than older ones, but be sure to factor in any major updates or changes to newer versions that could impact demand for the model you’re considering.
Find a Motorcycle That Holds Its Value – Shop at North American Warhorse
Looking for a motorcycle that will keep its value? North American Warhorse in Dunmore, near Scranton, PA, has you covered. Our team is ready to guide you through our extensive inventory and help you choose a bike that’s built to last—both on the road and in resale value. Visit us in-store or explore our online selection to find the motorcycle that’s right for you.
Bottom Line
When buying a motorcycle, thinking about resale value can help you get the most out of your purchase. By considering factors like brand reputation, depreciation trends, and model popularity, you can choose a bike that will hold its value over time. A little research goes a long way in making sure your investment is worth it.
