Should I buy a new or used bike? 

In my humble opinion I would recommend a used Suzuki SV650. It's a great naked bike with a v-twin that would feel comfortable to you. I had one to do track endurance racing on. I also could throw soft luggage on it and go on a tour. The upright handle bars make it almost feel like a dirt bike. The engine is strong enough for you not to get bored with it.

Triumph street triple 765R- track use, street use and cruise.

I would get a used naked bike for a track bike plus you could use it for casual riding around town. Something like the Z650 or SV650. More forgiving for those of us over 40 but still capable of running on the track.

Definitely 900cc. Best regards to You Jerry.

The best used motorcycle are the ones that include the helmet and jacket because the owner felt riding a motorcycle was not for them and it probably has low miles and they just want it gone. Usually they will negotiate price.

Just wanted to say thanks Jerry. I was down in the Daytona area on vacation from Ontario Canada and decides to make the 2 1/2 hour drive over to the west coast last Sunday to take your course. Really glad I did, I learned so much (slipping the clutch.....). Would highly recommend this for anyone wanting to improve their riding skills. Thanks Ken

The curent used bike prices in my area (Ontario Can) are just stupid high. Even with the price increases, dealer fees and our 13% friggin tax (on new or private used), new looks more attractive than it used to. Cant believe I said that............

I would be afraid to buy a used naked bike because the previous owner probably ran the you know what out of it. The red line is pretty high on those bikes, and it probably lived somewhere up there.

USED, always. And always...in the Winter. I've been riding 42yr/67 here- and ONLY my very first bike was new; the last 7 all used. NO issues. Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, BMW; they just work.

I’ve only been riding two and a half years now and I’ve only ridden Harleys during that time. Lately, I’ve been watching videos on the Triumph Street triple and man, what a machine! The rs version is loaded! I would get the standard R version personally, but IF I had the funds, that’s a bike I’m extremely interested in. Not necessarily a budget friendly bike, but not that expensive either.

Thank you for all your instructional videos as they are a huge help!! Mr. Jerry, sounds like you got the "track fever", and you are correct it is the safest place to ride fast, learn the art of cornering, improve skills, and keep a big smile on your face. You know what they say about opinions, so here goes mine. I think a good used middleweight 600 CC bike is the way to go, in lieu of dual purpose (track and street), I would keep it track specific, remove headlights, tail lights, flush radiator with proper track safe coolant, safety wire, tires, etc., that way the prepping for a track day will be kept at a minimum and you might just find you will want to get your racing licence as there are different organizations here in Florida that will keep you busy one weekend a month during season. Harleys for the street......track bike for the track.

Jerry... Don't Forget Moto Jitsu. He is very informed about what you're interested in doing. You're a Pro, He's a Pro.. Cant go Wrong !! "Good Luck"

My advice,buy what you want.

damn Jerry, left us with a "cliff hanger". guess i'll have to come back Sunday......lol. as always, thanks for posting.

Jerry, my wife and I have both the Z900RS and the Z650RS. Both are excellent and wold serve a dual purpose role for you. They are not as comfy as the cruisers we also own but are comfy enough to do 100-200 miles on them pretty easily. Like you I cannot get comfortable on an out and out sport bike. There are RU-vid vids out there on the Z900RS on tracks during track days so check them out. Buy used as most of these bikes are pretty much bulletproof. Check out Triumph as well. They have some great retro bikes with plenty of power and comfort.

I'm all for used vehicles. Especially here in Florida. Most recently... 2 months ago, 1996 Fat Boy, 9k miles, $6k. My touring bike... 2013 Ultra Limited, 5 years old it had 5k miles, paid well under book. My truck... 2013 F150, 5 years old it had 16k miles. Again, well under book. Now the money you save would cover any unforseen repair bill and at the end of the day, you can get an extended warrantee on just about anything. Ride on!

Used bikes are always a good option. So is buying the previous year bike that the dealer has sitting on sell floor when new models are released.

Ask the instructors at the track for their recommendation.

Jerry... You're the one that told me to buy a low milage Victory... Fine machine!! Best summer I had here in Arizona so far!! Thanx Bud!!

I’d say buy a used, late model , low mileage Triumph Street Triple 765 or 675 , or Speed Triple 1050 if you want a little more torque. Sport bike performance with an upright riding position. Adjustable suspension and all the electronic trickery make it good for track days but easy to live with on the street

The most fun I had on the track was riding a used 300cc Kawasaki. Cost me 2300. I ran the you know what out of it and the only thing I replaced was oil and tires.

Versys 650 seems like a good track bike that can do some comfy touring as well. Used for 5g’s is very common

So many different spokes for different folks! My choice is used 👍

I didn't want to spend the money on a new bike, but after maintaining 4 used bikes, I got tired of the surprised while doing the maintenance. Previous dealers striping bolts or putting back any unfit parts and all. So I got a brand new one and not a single dealer will ever touch that bike.

Triumph Street Triple RS, you can have fun on the track, and also use it on the road as a fun roadster. With the new models just launched, you might be able to find good deals on used ones.

Honestly if you have the money buy new. You’ll know it hasn’t been poorly maintained or abused. I buy used but don’t think you have to get the first thing you find. Inspect it closely and look for red flags. Bent fairing mounts behind nice fairings, pitch black oil, properly tensioned chain/belt, and more small things.

Good-Day: Jerry; I'm in the same spot with use vs new. I've been looking at used FLHXXX Street-Glide 2010, vs. 2023 Road-Glide 3 that nob9dy 8n Florida has. Hopefully we'll trade in my 2003 police Electra-Glide. Have not made up my mind yet.

Buy a used road king special and turn it into a performance bagger . Jerry - 🤴 King of the baggers 🤔 ?

I always buy new for one reason…people just don’t take care of things. I do and am very particular. There is just something nice about a new bike, car etc. I’m a casual weekend rider in good weather etc. If I were going to beat a bike on the track I might buy used for that type of purpose but otherwise I would just buy new.

Buy used. If you want excitement stay away from the Kawasaki 650 line - Versys, Ninja, & Z. They share the same chassis & mello P-twin engine. You won’t get bored in the small bikes - whole racing classes deducted to 400cc and below - Kawasaki Ninja 400, KTM 390, CBR 300 & R3. The Ninja 400 is much more upright than you think and can be bought used from private parties without all the dealer bogus fees.

Go with second hand, it'll be cheaper, and if you change your mined you haven lost as much against a new bike.

I've always buy used Harleys you can get them with low mileage and with all the upgrades pipes and bags etc 👍 Motorman thanks for the video and be safe everyone 🙏

Absolutely. SPORTSBIKES are for track days. The Honda NC 750x DCT is exellent as a daily

Used, always used. I'd suggest the naked Suzuki 750 or a Yamaha MT09 if you're concerned with comfortable seating position and they'll still be fast enough that you won't get bored. If it's only going to be used on the track I would absolutely consider a 600 or 750 supersport. You can pick them up used and get the ergonomics set up to fit you best, you won't regret it. The Honda handles very well and has a nice feel to it, but the Suzuki is absolutely the easiest to work on and probably has the most aftermarket support.

My main bike is an Ultra Limited but I also have a Yamaha MT-10. It’s very sporty but also a very comfortable bike. Nothing like an R-1. I have a bad back and titanium shoulder and upper arm and it’s even comfortable for me.

Used Midsize bike Jerry. With all the selection on the market shouldn't be to difficult to find one in excellent shape with low miles.

Low mileage used. These japanese bike are generally very reliable. 3/4 of the inspection looking at the bike. The rest talking with the owner. The reason I say owner is there are some people after I talk to them I know I don't want what they owned. Some owner you can get a sense they took care of it.

I picked up my Triumph America with only 5,000 miles for a little over 3k & I love it. I wouldn't be able to afford a new bike for anywhere near that. If you have a lot of discretionary income you can buy new, but for anybody with a budget ( and doesn't want to make paymets) used is the way to go.

Another reason for used is because on a track day you said pushing you limits. It very possible to go pass that and slide or someone cause a accident of some sort. Also I mainly dra race any thing race or handled or work on alot is going to get scratched or field rash of some sort.

Used midsize. I’d suggest a popular model within the last 5 years to ensure parts availability if something needs repair. I have no expertise as I am on my first bike. But I’m on the internet, so I have to be an expert.

For a track toy, used. It's not like you don't have 5 bikes and an ebike behind you. It would be different if it's your only bike maybe. But it's a total toy, good one, but still a toy. Jayman...

Can't beat the second hand option 👌 you have enough bikes already champion 👍

So what is your budget and have you done a cost benefit analysis? For example: a new bike is paid with net earnings, not with gross earnings. So if $10,000 net, probably $16,000 gross income is required. Now you have to finance a loan too - Your bike will cost you double the sticker price is you don't watch out. Now a used bike - well, "how mush oil does it leak, and what is its expected maintenance costs, and what will they take for it" are for gamblers. Then the third alternative is to Rent?

My personal thoughts are: 1) NEVER BUY NEW for a personal use vehicle. Commercial is a totally different animal. The cost of depreciation to have a warranty vs a repair budget in savings... it really isn't worth taking that financial hit. Ideally you should have enough to pay outright for the most expensive component on your vehicle; usually the engine; short of a total loss. That's what insurance is for. Additionally, If you can do your own mechanic work, so much the better. 2) Mind your budget. I'm on disability, i.e. an extremely limited budget, & one thing I've learned is, it doesn't matter if it's free, if you can't afford to fix it, you can't afford to own it. What good is it to have a broken, useless vehicle that you can't afford to fix & use. You're better off without anything. Just my thoughts for whomever wants it. Y'all do what works best for you lot.

Used mid-sized bike should do the trick. Would be fun at the track and good value without the dealer fees, surcharges, etc....that comes with a new bike

All depends on your finances. If I could afford it, I`d buy new every time! Personally I always buy used 😅😎

You only live once motoman.. go for what desires you. Ride as much as u can like me, I really enjoy riding 😉

Go with Triumph or Ducati, used! They will be set up for the track

To me it's never worth it to buy new due to the high mark up.

Low mileage used with a good service history. Long as it's not been used for track days! 😉

Track bike? Used Honda 600rr. Look in cycle trader. I use my mother zip for bikes Clearwater area. Make sure there double check it at a dealership.

Hey Jerry, I think you should get a GREAT bike you’d absolutely love: a BMW F900 XR TE, which BMW riders say is better than the more well-known, traditionally, the BMW F 1000 XR TE. Even if you made your immediate choice, I am confident you’ll want to test-ride for as long a stretch as you can. From your admirer in Western Canada!! 😅

Hi Jerry, first off I'm no expert. I have some friends who are doing track days most weekends. I think maybe get and second hand bike, maybe not an out and out sports bike but a super naked. I would say something Japanese. The theory being. The naked tend to have a more upright seating position making better for streets and longer rides. If you drop it on the track Japanese parts tend to be less expensive than say Italian or German.🙂 I don't wear a airbag system but as you Moto GP riders do and over here riders in British Super Bike series do. I know they all say that it does help when they come off and as they always pushing it to the limit they are at some point going to come off. And as you know guys of our age don't bounce as well as we use to.😅

Used given the markups etx from the dealers. My choice a litely used Z900RS I saw a 2018 , 10,000 miles Brock’s exh and tuned and mint < $9000

If I were looking for track and ride to would be a used SV650. (Not the "S")

The big dilemma with the,”low priced” new bike is all the dealer fees. On a 20,000 and up bike the fees hurt but not as much on a 5000-8000 bike. So…. Used is the way to go. If it’s for the track, get a good mechanically sound used bike that you won’t feel to bad when you dump it. Personally, I favor Yamaha. Whatever you decide do your research in your area on good reputable repair/service,and parts shop.

I wouldn’t buy anything mechanical built after 2019. Not for another few years. Look at the millions of cars with recalls. Motorcycles might be in a better position but budget cuts and labor shortages touched everywhere the past 3 years.

If you're starting out keep it small, you'll gain more skill and confidence. All bikes are fun to ride.

Have you ever tried a Motoguzzi. I had a 1200 sport. It was comfortable and really loved the track.

Used Kawasaki ZG1400 Kawasaki Sport Touring Motorcycle Concours14 ABS. A" bagger"

I can't make up my mind if a used motorcycle is worth it. 10k for a 650 versys new with warranty, or 5k for a ten year old bike with thousands of miles. Tires, battery, fluids, plus what ever breaks, and other maintenance I'm in another 2k to 3k on a used bike and wear and tear already. Just made up my mind... The 5k price difference is really only 2k and that's worth the peace of mind and warranty you get with a new bike. Plus the technology on the new bike is worth a couple thousand. That ten year old bike needs to be 3k or less regardless of miles.

I’d check out Bobs BMW in Maryland for a great 1150 R or similar. He’s the best BMW service and sales in the country. You would absolutely love a BMW.

If I had your stable of bikes, (I don't), I would be satisfied and find the type of riding they are intended for.

Jerry, you've got the bucks go for a Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE. Nothing like the sound of its hyper charger breaking the sound barrier.

What areas on the East coast do you have your training?. I love your videos. I'm new to the cruiser motorcycle. I brought a 2007 Suzuki boulevard C50. Thanks

Hi motorman i bought a used bike without even seeing it in person from a dealer in queensland i live in south australia , its a risk you take when you find a bargain . Beware though i watch a lot of moto madness and some of the things i see young guys doing to there bikes revbombing ,burnouts ect . Your pretty handy with the tools so i would go for a good used bike save some money if it was me i would probably be looking at a used gsx r suzuki for what you have in mind .

Used.... I purchased a 2021 sport glide in NY city in June. Had 900 miles, payed 16,950 out the door. Tried a hard sale for all the extras "NOPE" Very happy with my choice. This bike is more popular in Europe and is not made anymore. Because of this, will this bike become more valuable? Only time will tell. Shiny side up 👍

What I'd like to know is what the camera lady thinks of you racing around on the track LOL.

Late model KTM RC390 is a nice option

When I was looking, the good used bikes were hard to come by and cost as much or more than the new bikes. Now that we are finally pulling out of the pandemic, new and honestly priced used bikes used bikes are easier to find. Used bikes also don't usually carry the add on fees, just tax and (somer times) license fees.

Dammit man there's absolutely no law against owning more than one motorcycle I would think it would depend on what kind of riding you're doing and what's your idea of a road trip or just hot rodding around I mean, you can own more than one motorcycle... I'm bumping 70 years old and my friends are to all telling me that if I ever ride a three-wheeler I'll never get back on the motorcycle again. Now it's got to the point where I'm almost afraid to drive a trike

Strictly cost alone you are better off buying used. Used from a dealer is not normally a bad deal. Good luck.

You can get a used bike with a warranty with ESP extended service plans

Stay with Harley. Get the new Sportster for the track. You'll love it and it will compliment your stable.

A used mid-size bike definitely. Just check it out carefully to make sure it hasn't been thrashed.

go used motorcycle if for track and short rides

Very few people are even thinking about buying a motorcycle new or used, as far as I can tell 🤔 most are spending the money on that power bill that just went through the roof 😳

Go used! If it's going to be a bike used in courses and in trainings, most likely it'll be dropped a number of times. Better to do that on an already used bike!

I dont know anything about tracks or bikes for them. I wonder if you would like the Vulcan S. It's a sportbike-cruiser hybrid. 🤔

Buy used. The Dealers where I live are thieves. If they show a used bike for say 6000.00 add $2700.00-3,000.00. A sport bike you will have to shop around. Most of these bikes have been beat on. But there are some cream puffs out there. If the dealer is selling that used bike for $6000.00 you can buy it private sale for 4500.00. Cash is King when it comes to used bikes. Plus no BS fees and sales tax. You just have to be patient. Facebook Market place is a great place/Craig's list/Cycle Trader.

VFR1200F 2017 😅

I'm all about used bikes, especially someone else's masterpiece (hence custom parts) these day's kind of hard to find. Seems like everyone knows sky's the limit on used bikes. Happy Hunting! You saved my life! By the way, gave up riding at twenty three years old when my first son was 21/2 years old. (first and only bike 750 Honda 2 months)fast forward 39 years later 2011 Electra glide ultra limited. One day before I was to pick it up I stumbled across one of your video's "why do I keep dropping my bike) 6,500 local miles later, in first year! Been a fan ever since, Thankyou!

Go talk to your buddy, Moto Jitsu, he seems to have many styles of riding vehicles

Suzuki TL1000R

My answer, you just do whatever you want to do. Your the one that has to live with it in the end.......

@Jerry I'm an internet expert and I'll tell you get the bike that YOU want!

Get something used and make it your own.

Like you said Jerry, the msrp of new bikes sounds good until you see the out the door price and you say what the hell happened? I would buy a good used bike whatever your comfortable with. Good luck 👍

Buy used....you've had the Best of the Best new Harleys....now change it up a bit and have fun.

Yamaha FJR 1300 is the best for daily use.

From what I have heard, for sport bikes, the number of CC's you get are limited by how long your legs are. 450-500 cc's should max you out. lol Seriously, Have as much fun as you can while you can. :)

I wanna race u on a track any day chief ✌️Daytona

Why not 2?

I think Yamaha MT 01 is good for you.

Used 900 CC but for me it would only be for the track . I’ll stick with my road glide ultra for longer trips and comfortable riding plus the used doesn’t have to look great chances are I may go down so why ruin or scratch up a new bike IMO

Pick up a Crate 135 and pop it into your "new" Honda. Instant track animal!

A used BMW F800 GT

Motor man, Question, I noticed that the Harley-Davidson baggers have guards to avoid damage them if you drop the bike. I would love to do the same for my Honda Rebel 1100. Will be putting on “Viking saddlebag” soon. Can you help? No luck finding anything online. I already have engine guards.

I've been looking at the Indian FTR but there are a lot of options out there.

Get used, you can get a very good quality low mileage sport bike for half of a brand new one.