Cheap scooters or 50cc bikes that are imported from places like China and India can look really tempting when you're 16 and looking for your first bike, and often the fact that they're almost half the price of bikes over here and make them really tempting. However, is there a catch or are these bargains legitimate? Our article shows you the advantages and disadvantages of buying cheap scooters online.
1. Reliability. When you buy from a typical dealership you assume there will be quality due to the brand. Likewise, cheap scooters can often be branded as unreliable if you buy from a company with a poor reputation. Reputable online sellers of scooters have invested large amounts of money in sourcing only the best 125cc scooters from places such as China, meaning reliability should not normally be a problem.
2. Quality. Cheap mopeds usually are cheap because they are made overseas where materials and the cost of labour is cheaper. Unlike the big brands, less money is also spent on marketing the products which means savings can be passed on to the consumer.
3. Parts. Sometimes accidents happen and you need to replace part of your cheap motorbike. If you've bought from a foreign based importer, getting a replacement part such as a wing mirror can be difficult. Most online sellers will stock a range of spares, or alternatively your local dealership is likely to as well. When you buy, make sure they have replacement parts available and in stock.
4. Repairs. Some bike shops will not be familiar with imported products such as scooters. The best way to avoid being left with a broken scooter you can't ride is to make sure that when you buy you ask about local repairmen who will work with your scooter.
5. Registration. A lot of online stores will allow you to buy a registration pack when you purchase the moped so that you can register it with the DVA yourself when it arrives. This is actually much better for you as it means that the bike is brand new and you're the first to own it, so although you'll need to wait a few days before it is registered and you can ride it on the road it's better than riding a pre-registered model.
6. Assembly. A lot of 125cc motorbikes or mopeds will be delivered to you via a courier service. Because of this, some minor parts may need to be put on by you because there will have been a risk of them being damaged in transit. Usually these are very simple things to attach such as mirrors and the battery and you don't need mechanic skills to be able to handle it.
7. Online. Buying online can be risky as some websites are misleading with descriptions or photos. If you buy from a reputable website, you will find that you can view high quality images and view photos in 360-degree rotation. To avoid any nasty surprises you should always research companies beforehand and look at the feedback they've been given before you commit to purchasing.
So, if you follow our seven key tips when buying your moped it can often mean that buying online can be a breeze and a large amount of money will be saved.
As a regular rider of both cheap motorbikes and learner legal bikes, Ben Davies has provided advice to both new and experienced users. He offers his assistance to others having seen how difficult it can be to find the perfect product online at the best possible price.