If the copycats bikes are just as good, why can you buy one for 20% of there original cost about 5 years later

Answer 1

The more expensive bikes (I'm not gonna name names) are status symbols and the technology has remained the same for quite some time. The "copycat" Jap bikes are constantly upgrading and improving the technology. Last years model of the same bike has less technological advancements and the newer years have improved tenfold. Therefore making the older bikes less desirable.

Answer 2

If you mean motorcycles other than Harley's, they all depreciate in value a little more than the Harley's do because people put more value on the Harley. It is all in the eye of the beholder. NO, you do not see many 50 year old Japanese or Korean bikes around because they were not introduced 50 years ago. remember, 50 years ago the American's were still getting over WWII and the Vietnam and Korean wars. So at this point, to have an Asian bike was almost treason. However, when they did start being introduced in the early 70's mainly, they quickly became popular and you do see many 70's and 80's Asian bikes still on the road. You may not see as many in as good condition that you see older Harleys in because the parts are not as abundant as Harley parts are. So in conclusion, the Asian and European bikes are just as good, yet most of America's bikers place more value on Harleys because they are true American bikes, therefore raising the re-sell value.

Answer 3

When I started riding in the 60's there were british bikes, other european bikes, Harley (of course) Cushman, Vespa, Lambretta, Yamaha, Honda, et al, Ducati too and some knock -offs that sold at Sears and other outlets. Now we have China with HyoSung or something and they look good. I'd say that with care most bikes would last. but really change is good. and bikes wear out if you ride them. So it boils down to who stays in bus and who has the parts. Everything depreciates and in business most things go to zero in book value after 5 years as a standard.

Answer 4

Simple: Less demand for the copycat bikes. But isn't it a great way to save money on a motorcycle?

Answer 5

because usually the copycat bike have high mileage therefore bringing down the value. whereas the copied bike is sitting alot in the garage waiting for parts to fix it so it can be riden. or the owner is waiting for that perfect day as to not dirty his toy.

Answer 6

If you mean H.D. copycats, it's due to a number of factors, the main one being you see many 50 year old harleys and Indians, how many 50 year old Jap bikes do you see running around?

Answer 7

you mean poser bikes, right? simple - joe local buys one, gets tired of the "biker life" and decides to sell it.