What is it with motorcycle ads?

[Radar Chief]

Originally Posted by Rain Man

You have to put money down to take a test drive? I didn't know that. How much? Or do you just have to flash the money to prove that you could buy it if you wanted?

I've never taken a test ride without putting some money down first. Been a while since I bought a bike from a dealership so I'm not sure what the customary collateral payment would be. The deal I've always worked when selling a bike is I need a cashiers check, cash works also, for the agreed upon price of the bike in my hand before they take it for a ride. From that point the buyer has 24 hours to bring it back undamaged or I cash the check, deposit the money.
Problem is any schmo can say they'll buy your bike then take it for a test ride, crash it then you're liable for the damage to the bike and possibly even their hospital bill.