What’s the Life Expectancy of a Used Motorcycle?

Used motorcycles often have years of adventure left in them, but not all models do. Some will require expensive repairs soon after purchasing. Some may even need to be retired in a short period of time!

It can be tough predicting exactly how long a given used motorcycle will last, but the following guide can help you make an educated guess.

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The Average Used Motorcycle Lifespan

A great place to start is with the generic average lifespan of a used motorcycle. If the model wasn’t taken care of well, it will usually last for about 20,000 miles. If the model was well-maintained, it will usually last for about 100,000. Proper maintenance, especially preventative maintenance, plays a big role in how long a given model will last.

The Impact of the Type of Motorcycle

The different categories of motorcycles can have different life expectancies.

A used touring motorcycle, for example, will usually last for about 100,000 miles. A used sport bike, in contrast, will usually last for about 50,000 miles.

When predicting the lifespan of a used motorcycle, it’s important to consider the predicted lifespan for that given type of motorcycle.

The Impact of the Used Motorcycle’s Usage

The used motorcycle’s past can be a great predictor of its future longevity.

If the previous owner rode responsibly, the model will tend to last for about 80,000. If the previous owner rode recklessly, the lifespan can be as short as 5,000! Reckless driving is not only unsafe, it can cause extensive wear and tear on the motorcycle.

Other factors can also lead to a shortened motorcycle lifespan. If the used motorcycle was ridden often at high RPMs, it won’t last as long. If the previous owner drove aggressively with lots of acceleration and braking, the used motorcycle will have a shorter lifespan.

The Impact of the Used Motorcycle’s Engine

In general, used motorcycles with bigger engines have longer lifespans.

The Impact of the Manufacturing Year

Motorcycle manufacturing gets better year after year. The materials chosen today can be more durable than the materials used in past decades. The techniques and design can be better quality than the older practices.

In other words, a used motorcycle that was built more recently will likely have a longer lifespan than a model built further in the past.

Ready to explore used motorcycles for sale? Check out the selection at BMW Motorcycles of Jacksonville. See our available models online or stop by our dealership in Orange Park, Florida. We also proudly serve those in Jacksonville and St. Augustine, Florida.