What is high mileage for a motorcycle?

Highest mileage by type

Typically, sport bikes are considered high mileage at around 25,000 miles, while cruisers and touring bikes are well used at 45,000 miles, and as mileage increases, the motor wears out and the motorcycle loses value.  That said, a bike that has never been maintained can be worn out within 25,000 miles, while bikes that are cared for perfectly (with some serious maintenance investments) can last 100,000 miles or more.

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Check the service records

To get a full picture of a bike’s value, you’re going to need more than just a number on the odometer.  Service records will reveal how often the bike was cared for, what issues it has had in the past, and a general insight into who the buyer is getting this bike from.

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Typically, motorcycles need an oil change at least once every 3,000 miles and must be taken in for maintenance checks at least as often.  If the service records reveal that it was much less often than that, that’s a red flag and can be an indicator of a bike in poorer condition.  If there are no service records, that should also set off alarms, as there could be hidden issues with the bike that don’t become apparent until after its sale/purchase.

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Affordable motorcycle insurance for used bikes

Despite this concern with high mileage, the reality is that most riders ride less than 2,000 miles per year.  For those of you who fall into that majority, VOOM’s Pay Per Mile motorcycle insurance can save you up to 60% on your insurance so that you only pay for the miles you actually ride.

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With VOOM, you don’t have to commit to a 12 month plan, nor is there pressure to know when or how much you’ll ride.  You simply use the bike when you feel like it, and a few times a year you’ll be asked to upload a picture of your odometer.  So while an odometer’s mileage can’t tell you the exact value of a used bike, it’s all you need for modern, affordable insurance!

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