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Trading in a Harley for a less expensive one

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  #1  
Old 12-26-2018, 07:04 AM
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Default Trading in a Harley for a less expensive one

Has anyone here ever traded a more expensive Harley in for a less expensive one?

I have an ‘18 Deluxe and a ‘17 Slim. I love the Slim, and only like the Deluxe. Having two Softails is kind of redundant, even though they are both very different animals (chassis, engine, suspension, etc.). The Deluxe has around 2K miles on it.

My first ever bike was a ‘15 Sportster 48. I really miss that bike. I traded it in for the Slim, which I have no problems using for longer rides. I’d like a 48 for stuff around town. Plus, in ‘16, the 48 was improved a bit, and would be a better ride than my old 48.

So, what would happen if I tried to trade the ‘18 Deluxe in for a ‘19 48? Even with depreciation, it would still be worth more than a ‘19 48 (and I just might wait until later on in the year when the dealer is more open to haggling so they can make room for next year’s models). I’m not sure what kind of deal the dealer would make with this type of thing.

The other thing is... I have my eye on that new Custom the MoCo is supposed to release in 2021, the possible replacement of the current Sportsters, so I’m not sure if I should just wait until then.

Thanks in advance!



 
  #2  
Old 12-26-2018, 07:15 AM
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Did you run the #'s?

'18 Deluxe NADA retail runs $13,820-low - $18,185-avg
'19 Base Sporty 48 runs $12,999 & Special lists $11,750

I predict the dealer will try to "a$$ rape" you on the deluxe and you'll feel like it was a good deal...on paper. Spring's coming...wait to sell your deluxe and then shop for Sporty w/ca$h...IMO.
 
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Old 12-26-2018, 07:23 AM
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Sell a bike, buy a bike. Simple concept.
 
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Old 12-26-2018, 07:23 AM
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Bikes are simply dollars to dealers. They know what they have in it and what they need to get out of it. There is a bottom line that keeps them in business. I have not traded down on bikes but have on cars which is the same thing. You can wait for new years, seasons, etc. Bottom line is if you are getting more for your trade, they are getting more for theirs. Trades create an illusion. At the end of the day they are walking away with a specific amount of money they knew they needed. The only way you will really know what you are paying is on an outright purchase with no trade in. The "fun" is in the trade and being able to convince yourself after a day of losing money, when you go out to the garage and look at your new shiny bike you are thrilled at how clever you were at beating the dealer up and what a sound investment you have made. You are a man with a new toy and there is nothing better than that. No one wants to go out to their garage and look at their money.
 
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Old 12-26-2018, 07:29 AM
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I've never know anyone to go from a big twin down to a Sportster and be happy about it.
 
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Old 12-26-2018, 07:37 AM
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Not sure about the US but up here a trade-in offsets the sales tax which can make it a waste of time trying to sell first then buy. With a more expensive bike (assuming here) there would be no tax and the buyer would leave with a bike and money.
 
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Old 12-26-2018, 07:43 AM
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Originally Posted by hellonewman
Not sure about the US but up here a trade-in offsets the sales tax which can make it a waste of time trying to sell first then buy. With a more expensive bike (assuming here) there would be no tax and the buyer would leave with a bike and money.
Dealers are not much on handing out money...my guess is they will offer such a low trade amount, that the buyer would walk .
 
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Old 12-26-2018, 07:57 AM
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Originally Posted by Tom84FXST
Dealers are not much on handing out money...my guess is they will offer such a low trade amount, that the buyer would walk .
Yup. Pretty rare that a dealer is going to send you out the door with a new bike and a check in your hand for trading down.
 
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Old 12-26-2018, 08:02 AM
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Originally Posted by Hey Man
I've never know anyone to go from a big twin down to a Sportster and be happy about it.
I haven't been on a Sportster in over 25 years and would love to have one in the cave but it would keep at least one touring bike company.
 
  #10  
Old 12-26-2018, 08:03 AM
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Yup! You're going to get hosed! I suggest bringing some KY when you make the deal.
 
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