Our motorcycle bill of sale form helps keep a record of the transaction and provides protection from any issues that might happen in the future.
It comes a time when we have to part with vehicles we no longer use or that no longer make financial sense. Vehicles that often fall into this category are motorcycles.
This text will provide information on how to protect yourself during the sale of your motorcycle by using a motorcycle bill of sale.
Motorcycle Bill of Sale Forms By State
What is a Motorcycle Bill of Sale?
The motorcycle bill of sale is a legal document that serves as written proof of a transaction between parties. The purpose of this document is to provide protection to the seller from any future issues and to serve as proof of sale for the buyer in the transfer of ownership process.
This document might also require a witness or notarization, depending on specific state rules.
A motorcycle bill of sale is also known as:
Other Names for Motorcycle Bill of Sale
Motorcycle sale agreement
Motorcycle proof of purchase
Motorcycle sales receipt
When Do You Need a Bill of Sale Form?
You need a motorcycle bill of sale form whenever you are selling your motorcycle or in other way transferring its ownership. This document can protect the seller in case the buyer violates traffic laws before ownership is transferred.
On the other hand, if it turns out that the motorcycle is stolen, then the buyer can provide proof of how the vehicle was acquired. It should be mentioned that in some states, this bill of sale is mandatory for the transfer of ownership.
How to Sell a Motorcycle
When selling a motorcycle, it is necessary to follow certain steps to ensure a safe and smooth sale. Starting from preparing the motorcycle to signing the bill and handing over the keys, each step provides structure to the process.
Step 1 - Prepare the Motorcycle for Sale
When it comes to preparing a motorcycle for sale, the least that can be done is to give it a thorough wash. This will not restore it to factory condition, but it will leave the impression that the motorcycle has been well-maintained.
If circumstances allow, scratches should be touched up, and some parts can be replaced to enhance the motorcycle’s appearance. It goes without saying that any necessary repairs must also be carried out to ensure the motorcycle runs properly.
On the other hand, the motorcycle can be sold as is, but in that case, the price must be adjusted accordingly.
Step 2 - Do the Research
To determine the approximate value of the motorcycle, some research is needed to find out what prices similar models are selling for in the area. This information can be found online on websites specializing in selling motorcycles, like cycletrader.com, or on price estimators, like jdpower.com.
Additionally, it is advisable to browse through magazines about motorcycles or visit a local used motorcycle dealer.
Step 3 - List the Motorcycle
After determining the price, it is time to list the motorcycle for sale. The first option is to do this online on websites specializing in motorcycle sales, like usedmotorcyclestore.com or cycletrader.com.
Websites that are focused on sales in general, like ebay.com or Craigslist.org, should also be considered for placing an ad. They are very popular, and millions of people are searching for a deal on their website, so it seems like a good place for motorcycle ads.
Another good place to advertise is a local newspaper because it will attract the attention of local buyers. It is not a bad idea to place the motorcycle on the street with a sign indicating that it is for sale.
Step 4 - Meet & Negotiate with Potential Buyers
When a potential buyer contacts you, it is necessary to schedule a time and place for them to view the motorcycle. If the seller trusts the buyer and allows a test ride, it should take place in a location that allows uninterrupted riding, such as a driving test course.
Otherwise, the seller may suggest meeting at a mechanic’s shop for a motorcycle inspection. The asking price should be a little higher than expected to allow some room for negotiation. If the buyer likes the motorcycle and the price is acceptable, there will be a verbal confirmation of the purchase.
Now, the only thing left is to formalize the agreement with the motorcycle bill of sale.
Step 5 - Finalize the Sale
To finalize the sale, it is necessary for both parties to agree on the method of payment. Once that is settled, you are recommended to download our printable motorcycle bill of sale example from our website and fill it out.
Along with information about the seller, buyer, and motorcycle, both parties must sign the contract. The seller must provide the title of ownership and registration. The original bill of sale goes to the buyer, and the seller should make a copy.
What Information Goes on a Motorcycle Bill of Sale?
The information that a motorcycle bill of sale must contain is:
Motorcycle Bill of Sale Requiments
The seller’s and buyer's full names and current addresses indicate who is involved in the transaction.
The motor’s identification number, along with the information indicating its condition at the time of sale.
The agreed price of the motorcycle and a method of payment.
The date of sale to confirm the exact date of ownership transfer.
The signatures of both parties to verify the document’s legitimacy, with the date of the signing, if it is different from the date of the agreement.
The signature and stamp of a notary public to add another layer of protection.
How to Fill Out a Motorcycle Bill of Sale Form
To fill out the contract, it is necessary to be informed about certain steps that guarantee the correct procedure has been followed.
#1. Fill Out Seller’s & Buyer’s Information
The first thing to do is to provide information about the seller and buyer, such as their full name and current address. Both parties should present their identification cards to ensure that the given information is accurate.
#2. Fill Out Information About the Motorcycle
Information about the motorcycle should include the model, vehicle identification number, color, odometer reading, and year of manufacture. These are practically key details by which the motorcycle can be identified.
#3. Add the Date
Adding the date marks the day when ownership transferred from the seller to the buyer and also when all responsibility regarding the motorcycle shifted to the buyer.
#4. Sign & File the Document
Once both parties are sure that the information in the bill of sale is accurate, they can proceed with signing the bill. Depending on the laws that vary from one state to another, a witness or a notary public presence may be required during signing.
#5. Notarize the Document
In some states, signing the bill of sale in the presence of a notary public is mandatory. The notary public will request identification cards from both parties to confirm their identities. If everything is in order, the notary public will provide their signature and stamp.
Motorcycle Bill of Sale FAQ
In many cases, a handwritten motorcycle bill of sale is legal as long as it contains the necessary information and signatures of both parties. However, it is essential to check the laws in the jurisdiction where the purchase or transfer of ownership is taking place to be sure.
To get a motorcycle bill of sale, you can hire a notary public or lawyer to draft a document that meets your needs. However, you can also download a motorcycle bill of sale PDF that you can fill out yourself.
To get a title for a motorcycle, one must bring the motorcycle bill of sale to the Department of Motor Vehicles, fill out the application for a new title, and pay filing fees.