Has anyone used one of the UK motorcycle buying services?

[Mikep328]

Since my CB400 has become my "daily rider" I want to sell my 2019 Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe but do not want to deal with the process of advertising/accepting calls/tire kickers, etc.  I see there are several motorcycle-buying businesses, stating words to the effect of,   "contact us, we'll give you a quote and pick up the bike/pay cash."  I accept the fact that the bike could sell to an individual for more than they will pay but that's OK.   Any recommendations for a specific company?

[JamesH]

I've sold a couple of bikes in the past to the superbike factory. Modern bikes, in immaculate condition. Def took a hit financially but was hassle-free and if you value your time/don't want the hassle it's a simple solution.

[SumpMagnet]

Motorcycle equivalent of 'We Buy Any Car'. Won't give the best price, but you won;t have to mess around. That's how they make a living.

Better than a dealer part ex sometimes too. Depends how sought after your bike is.

[Mikep328]

Thanks guys - will get a quote from a couple of them, pick one and proceed. 

[flatfour]

I used the Superbike Factory around five years ago to sell my Versys 1000 and they were really excellent, paid the same price as the dealer suggested for a trade - in, no problems on collection (in fact, the collection driver said it was the cleanest bike he had been asked to bring in and would ask his friend if he wanted it). However, when my daughter wanted to sell her Honda NC 700 a year or so ago, they offered a very low price, some £700.00 less than a local trader offered, and were using the same follow - up methods as the other buying site mentioned above - i.e. in touch every few days to offer a price a little higher, only valid for that day etc.

In summary, terrific a few years ago, far less impressed last time around!

[Mikep328]

Follow up...

I contacted 4 UK buying services.  2 did not reply at all, one responded saying they weren't interested but Superbike Factory said they would purchase it and offered more than I expected!   Thanks for the references/info!

[Mikep328]

Oops   after receiving a satisfactory offer from a tech at SBF, I received a message from the manager that they were not going to purchase the bike due to a dent in the tank.  I had explained that there was a dent/how it occurred and included pictures of it in my initial exchange with them and they then sent me a quote good for 7 days.  But two hours later the manager sent a message saying they would not purchase it. 

Oh well, if things went smoothly it would be boring!   

[Spitfire]

Sold my Honda Deauville to We Buy Any Bike, no fuss, money paid instantly and a fast pick up.

Cheers

Dennis

[Mikep328]

We Buy Any Bike responded that they were not interested.

[Mikep328]

Weird,

After saying not interested two days ago, We Buy Any Bike sent a message offering to purchase the bike at more than I expected to be offered in the first place...

[Spitfire]

That does sound strange, but nice about the offer.

Cheers

Dennis

[Rozabikes Tim]

Weird,

After saying not interested two days ago, We Buy Any Bike sent a message offering to purchase the bike at more than I expected to be offered in the first place...

Someone on their dealer network obviously after one!

[Mikep328]

"Someone on their dealer network obviously after one!"

It gets weirder... This afternoon SBF called on the phone after deciding NOT to buy it and offered to purchase it.  Friday nobody wanted it, today I received two GOOD offers from the same folks that had declined.  So clearly, Tim's comment is on point - someone must be looking for the specific model!  Collection is scheduled for next Monday.

[Mikep328]

Wanted to follow up - rep from Superbike Factory arrived, inspected bike, took care of all necessary paperwork, loaded up the bike and left.  The inspection verified the original discussion/price offer and it was quite painless.  They had an option for immediate deposit in my account for £30 or deposit in four business days (Friday in this case) for no charge.  Friday was fine with me.

So although there was a hiccup initially, I am very pleased with SBF, both with the ease of the process and the price they paid.!! 

[andy120t]

Interesting to hear that they will follow up at later dates too. Sounds painless - key thing is to approach them with an expectation of trading hassle for possibly a lower sale price. Sounds as if you came out happy all round!