Complete Guide: How to Value Your Motorbike in the UK

Wondering what your motorbike is worth? In this complete UK guide, we’ll walk you through everything that affects your bike’s value – from make, mileage and condition to seasonal trends and selling options. Whether you’re selling privately or through a service like MotoDealer, this guide will help you get a better price with confidence.

valuation motorbike

Introduction

Thinking of selling your motorbike but not sure what it’s worth?
This guide breaks down how motorbike valuation works in the UK – from what affects the price to how to prepare your bike for a better offer.

Whether you're selling privately or through a service like MotoDealer, knowing your bike’s value helps you make smarter decisions and avoid underpricing.

What Affects the Value of Your Motorbike?

Several key factors influence what your motorbike is worth on the market:

1. Make and Model

Some brands hold their value better than others. Popular and reliable brands like Honda, Yamaha, and Triumph tend to perform well. Premium bikes like BMW, Ducati or Harley-Davidson can also maintain high resale value – especially when well maintained.

2. Age of the Bike

Newer bikes generally have a higher value, but not always. Some older models – especially classics or limited editions – can increase in value over time.

3. Mileage

As a rule of thumb, lower mileage equals higher value. However, a well-serviced bike with higher mileage can still be attractive if it's been properly maintained.

4. Condition

Cosmetic scratches, rust, or mechanical issues can all affect the value. Keeping a clean, well-maintained bike makes a huge difference.

5. Service History

A full, documented service history boosts confidence and resale value. Missing service records? That can lower the offer.

6. Seasonal Demand

Prices for motorcycles often rise in spring and early summer. Selling at the right time can make a big difference.

Clean Motorbike

How to Improve Your Motorbike’s Value Before Selling

Here are a few things you can do to get the best possible offer:

  • Clean your bike thoroughly (including chain, wheels, under the seat)

  • Fix small issues (e.g. dead indicators, broken mirrors, low tyre pressure)

  • Gather paperwork: logbook (V5C), service book, MOT, invoices

  • Take clear, well-lit photos (if sending online)

  • Be honest about condition – it helps avoid offer reductions later

Online Valuation Motorbike

Should You Use Online Valuation Tools?

Online valuation tools (like ours) are a quick way to get a general idea of your bike’s market value.
However, remember: they’re only as accurate as the information you provide.

At MotoDealer, we combine your input with real market data and expert knowledge to give you a fair and personalised valuation – usually within 24 hours.

Common Mistakes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overestimating value based on emotional attachment

  • Not mentioning known defects or damage

  • Forgetting to include extras or upgrades (aftermarket exhausts, panniers, etc.)

  • Using outdated pricing from forums or old listings

  • Selling at the wrong time of year

Use MotoDealer for a Free, Honest Valuation

At MotoDealer, we make it easy to value and sell your bike – quickly and securely.
Our valuations are based on your bike’s real market data, not guesswork or automated tools that miss key details.

  • Free valuation within 24h

  • No pressure to sell

  • Nationwide UK collection available

  • Instant payment when we pick up the bike

Get Started

Want to know what your motorbike is worth today?
Click here to value your motorbike