My wife is selling her bike, and someone is coming this weekend to look at it.

My question is do we let the person coming over take the bike for a test drive?

I really don't want to, but my wife says she wouldn't buy a used bike without taking it for a test drive.

Do you verify their license, insurance, or do you just hope for the best?

 

Lots of folks here would say I'm crazy, but I let people test ride. That being said I try to get a feel for the person, basically if they're a buyer or tire kicker. Buyers get to test ride, the latter, no. I do check their license for motorcycle endorsement and hold it if I'm not going with them.

I don't worry about insurance, I have that on my vehicles. That's the policy that covers it anyway.

I agree with your wife, I wouldn't buy anything used or new without a test drive/ride.

 

If they want to test drive they need to leave cash in the amount of the bike as collateral IMO.

 

+1 on this.

 

Exactly what he said!!!

 

I think you just have to use your best judgement. I test drove 2 bikes off CL before buying one. In both cases the owner offered to let me ride. I didn't have to ask. After some conversation with the buyer you'll be able to get a feel for him. If he's confident and knowledgeable let him go. Also, put yourself in his shoes. Are you buying one you can't ride?

 

As a seller, I never have.

As a buyer, I insist.

Last one I bought, I handed the guy $2k as security before the test ride.

 

Did they ride up?
That would go big for a test ride.

 

They'd have to give a deposit and, show me a valid license before. Otherwise, I'd take them for a ride. If they don't like that, tough! They can look elsewhere.

 

I keep their license while they ride. Last bike I sold, buyer wanted a test ride. Buyer had no motorcycle endorsement. No test ride but he bought it anyway.
Keep in mind if the test rider disappears with your bike, it may be considered a civil matter with the police. You might have to wait two weeks before you can report it as embezzled.