So how much should I offer for this bike?

Question

Its a 1999 Kawasaki 250, its got 7900 miles on it. Hasn't really been riden in 2 years but is started randomly and rode a bit to keep it going. Only cosmetic issue is a small dent near gas tank. Nothing mechanically wrong with it. I offered $1,300. What do you guys think?

Its a EX 250 F Ninja by the way.

Oh and by the way I'm not interested in purchasing a new bike, its $3,300 out the door for a new kawasaki and I'm a new rider. I don't think its a good idea to practice on a brand new bike. I just need a practice bike for now, so why not save $2,000 and buy used. :)

I haven't made up my mind yet thats why I'm asking people for their opinion. kbb trade in vaule for the bike is $1,200 so I thought offering $1,300 for private vaule was fair. But hey it all depends on what other people will tell me. I posted on here about a 95 Kawasaki that has 4700 miles on it and he wanted $1,350. A lot people said that price didn't seem right so I ended up not buying it. I vaule all your opinions!

Answer 1

Seems reasonable if not a little bit pricey. A brand new Ninja 250 is less than $3000. You're paying nearly half that for an 8 year old bike, with nearly 8000 miles on it. Average it out, and that's 1000 miles a year, which is pretty light use. As long as you're happy with it and the bike is in decent shape, that's all you need to worry about.

Answer 2

I am doing the same thing. I am buying a older 1984 kawasaki, 440 for $1000 from a friend, to practice . I had planned on spending up to 1500 if needed. I won't feel to bad if the cycle gets damaged, or beat up. That doesn't sound like too bad of a deal for 1300 dollars.
I think it's a bit foolish when people spend alot of money on a new bike, or buy one that is too large ,until they become experienced enough to handle it. My girlfriend and i have a number of freinds encouraging us to get into riding so we can take rides with them. But, we are doing it at our own pace.
Sounds like you have a good plan and a fair deal in hand.
Good Luck!

Answer 3

This would make a great first bike for any new rider, or a reliable primary vehicle and it fits my requirements for a used bike, low miles, minor cosmetic wear & tear, it runs, and it's between 800 and 1,500 dollars. As long as it has good tires and the carbs aren't gummed up from setting around and the owner accepts your offer, go for it!

Answer 4

Seems like a great deal. I'm not really into things on two wheels(cars and trucks are a different story), but iv'e always been a fan of Kawasaki's.

Answer 5

True theyre 33 new, but they dont depreciate too much seems like a reasonable price to me. Hell if I totaled a $1300 bike after riding it for awhile I probably wouldnt be very pissed. Wouldnt take too long to have $1300 worth of fun out of it.

Answer 6

anywhere between 1000 and 1500 seems like a good deal to me. Also if you use it for commuting it should pay for itself in a couple months 60 mpg versus 20-30 in car. i would snatch it up ride the crap out of it then shine it all up and sell it next spring. youll come out ahead

Answer 7

sounds like you've made up your mind, and want to buy it, Why ask. this question is asked so repeatedly, I am almost tired of answering it.

You are paying top dollar for a used beginner bike with a dent.

go for it.

spend the money you saved on quality protective gear.

Answer 8

Was it maintained? with proof?

Has it had any work done?

After market parts? accessories?

A helmet at least?

I would start at 1000.00 and let them work you up.
Unless it is a good bike, it is only as good as it was maintained.

Answer 9

Try these links:

http://www.kbb.com/kbb/OtherVehicles/PriceType.aspx?VehicleClass=Motorcycle

http://www.nadaguides.com/default.aspx?LI=1-23-0-5600-885-973-50587&l=1&w=23&p=38&f=5693&gc=mc>c=mc