We want you to ride away happy. That means helping you think beyond the price tag. Use these tips to find a reliable used motorbike or used motorcycle that fits your riding style and your budget.
1. Set your real budget
Be honest about what you can afford — not just the purchase price, but everything that follows.
- Include running costs – tax, fuel, insurance, maintenance, and gear
- Look for cheap used motorbikes and cheap used motorcycles that don’t sacrifice reliability
- Explore finance options if spreading the cost works better for you
MotorHype makes it easy to find affordable used motorbikes for sale that won’t break the bank. Even when searching for cheap used motorbikes for sale, remember to factor in long-term ownership costs.
2. Think about how you’ll use the bike
A great second hand motorbike or second hand motorcycle is one that actually suits your daily needs.
- Commuting? Look for something fuel-efficient, lightweight, and easy to filter through traffic
- Weekend fun? Think about sports bikes, cruisers, or naked bikes for a thrilling ride
- Long tours? Prioritise comfort, wind protection, and luggage capacity
You don’t need to overcomplicate it — just match the bike to your riding. There are plenty of second hand motorbikes for sale and used motorcycles to suit every style.
Popular used motorbike types to consider
- Commuter bikes – Honda CB500, Yamaha MT-07, Suzuki SV650 (great for city riding and fuel economy)
- Sports bikes – Yamaha R6, Kawasaki Ninja, Honda CBR600 (for speed and performance)
- Cruisers – Harley-Davidson, Honda Shadow, Yamaha V-Star (for relaxed, stylish riding)
- Adventure bikes – BMW GS, Triumph Tiger, KTM Adventure (for long distances and varied terrain)
- Scooters – Vespa, Honda PCX, Yamaha NMAX (perfect for urban commuting)
3. Always check the bike’s history
A motorbike or motorcycle might look great in photos, but its past tells the real story.
- Accident history – avoid anything with major damage or frame repairs
- MOT and service records – regular upkeep is a good sign, especially for high-mileage bikes
- Mileage checks – make sure the numbers add up
Check motorbike history here – a quick check can save you from expensive problems later. This is essential whether you’re buying cheap motorbikes for sale or premium models.
4. Get motorcycle insurance sorted early
Insurance costs vary wildly between bike models, engine sizes, and rider experience. Check before you commit.
- Search insurance groups for the models you like
- Compare quotes to find the best rate
- Know your costs upfront to avoid nasty surprises
Compare motorbike insurance quotes here – find the right policy for your next used motorbike or used motorcycle.
5. Temporary motorbike insurance for short-term use
Need cover for a test ride, collection day, or a few weeks? Temporary insurance is perfect.
- Flexible cover – from a few hours to several days
- Cost-effective – only pay for what you need
- Ideal for – test rides, courtesy bikes, or waiting for your annual policy to start
Get temporary motorbike insurance here – keep yourself covered short-term.
6. Don’t forget breakdown cover
Even reliable used motorbikes and used motorcycles can have off days — especially if you’re covering lots of miles. Breakdown cover gives you peace of mind.
- Basic cover – roadside assistance
- More comprehensive – recovery and onward travel
- Annual plans are usually the best value
Check breakdown cover options here – a small cost for a lot of reassurance.
7. Understand your finance options
Not everyone wants to pay in full upfront — and that’s fine.
- Hire Purchase (HP) – you own the bike at the end
- Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) – lower monthly payments with flexibility
- Always read the terms – watch for interest rates and fees
Compare motorbike finance deals here – find a plan that fits your monthly budget, whether you’re looking at cheap used motorbikes or something more premium.
8. Consider GAP insurance
If your bike is written off or stolen, standard insurance only pays the current market value — which could be less than you paid.
- GAP insurance covers the difference
- Especially useful if you’re financing the bike
- Choose from Finance GAP or Return to Invoice options
Get a GAP insurance quote here – it’s one of those things you’ll be glad you had.
9. Compare similar models on MotorHype
Before you make an offer, see what else is out there.
- Browse comparable listings on MotorHype
- Factor in age, mileage, and condition – not just price
- Negotiate with confidence when you spot a fair deal
Our platform makes it easy to find cheap used motorbikes for sale without guessing if you’re overpaying. With thousands of second hand motorbikes and motorcycles for sale listed, you’ll always find a fair price.
Frequently asked questions about buying used motorbikes
Are cheap used motorbikes reliable?
Yes — many cheap used motorbikes and cheap used motorcycles are very reliable if they have a full service history and have been well maintained. Always run a history check before buying.
What’s the best site for second hand motorbikes and motorcycles for sale?
MotorHype is one of the UK’s best platforms for finding used motorbikes for sale and second hand motorcycles, with easy filters, daily updates, and price comparison tools. Whether you’re after cheap motorbikes for sale or premium options, we’ve got you covered.
Can I buy used motorbikes online safely?
Absolutely. Use trusted sites like MotorHype to find used motorbikes online, always check the bike’s history, arrange a viewing or inspection, and use secure payment methods.
Do I need GAP insurance on a cheap used motorbike?
It depends. If you’re financing the bike, GAP insurance is highly recommended. For a very cheap used motorbike purchased with cash, it’s less critical but still offers peace of mind.
How do I find cheap used motorbikes for sale near me?
Use MotorHype’s location filter to search by postcode or city. You can also filter by price to find the best budget-friendly options. We list thousands of second hand motorbikes and motorcycles for sale across the UK.
What’s the difference between a motorbike and a motorcycle?
In everyday UK language, very little — they mean the same thing. At MotorHype, we use both terms to help you find exactly what you’re looking for, whether you search for used motorbikes or used motorcycles.
Which used motorbike is best for a beginner?
Popular beginner bikes include the Honda CB500, Yamaha MT-07, Kawasaki Ninja 400, and Suzuki SV650. These offer a good balance of power, handling, and reliability for new riders.
Ready to find your next used motorcycle?
Whether you’re searching for second hand motorbikes, cheap motorcycles, or just browsing for inspiration, MotorHype makes the process simple, transparent, and actually enjoyable.
We’re passionate about motorbikes and motorcycles — and committed to helping you find the right one. Start your search today and discover why MotorHype is one of the best places to find used motorbikes and second hand motorcycles in the UK.
