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How to Buy a Used Motorcycle in Melbourne (Without Getting Burned)

Updated: May 9

Machine Alley’s Streetwise Guide to Secondhand Steel


Buying a used motorcycle in Melbourne is a bit like digging through crates of vinyl — there’s junk, there’s gold, and there’s stuff that looks good until you spin it. Whether you’re chasing your first bike, adding a project to the garage, or just want more grunt for your dollar, the secondhand market can be a goldmine — if you know what you're doing.


At Machine Alley, we’ve bought, sold, flipped, and resurrected enough bikes to know the difference between a great deal and a rolling mistake. Here’s how to shop smart and score something worth riding.





1. Know What You Want (and What You Can Handle)

First up, be real with yourself. Are you after a daily rider? A weekend toy? A vintage project? A learner-legal machine? Melbourne’s market is full of everything from near-new Ducatis to well-loved posties.

If you’re on your Ls, make sure it’s LAMS-approved. (Pro tip: check VicRoads' LAMS list).


2. Do Your Market Homework

Before you even message a seller, get a feel for the market. Look at:

  • BikeSales

  • Facebook Marketplace

  • Gumtree

  • Local dealership used sections (yep, even ours)

Compare prices, mileage, condition, and mods. This gives you a rough idea of what’s a fair deal and what’s someone dreaming.





3. Inspect Like a Hawk (or Bring One)

Always inspect in person — broad daylight, not in a dark garage or back alley.


Here’s your used bike checklist:

✅ RWC – Does it come with a RWC? If not, why not?

✅ Engine – Cold start it. Any weird noises? Smoke?

✅ Forks/Shocks – Any leaks or rust? Bounce test it.

✅ Brakes – Pads got meat? Fluid clear?

✅ Tyres – Cracks? Flat spots? Worn to the cords?

✅ Chain & Sprockets – Rusted? Loose? Hooked teeth = no good.

✅ Lights & Electrics – Blinkers, brake lights, horn, dash all working?

✅ VIN & Compliance Plate – Match the rego and PPSR (we’ll get to that).


If you’re not confident checking it out, bring a mate who is. A six-pack thank you is cheaper than fixing a lemon.


4. Ask the Right Questions

Here’s your short-and-sharp buyer script:

  • How long have you owned it?

  • Any major repairs or crashes?

  • Got receipts or a service history?

  • Any known issues or quirks?

  • Why are you selling?

Dodgy sellers get squirmy with direct questions. That’s your cue to walk.





5. PPSR = Your Secret Weapon

Before you hand over any cash, run a PPSR (Personal Property Securities Register) check. It tells you:

  • If it’s stolen

  • If it’s under finance

  • If it’s written off

Costs a couple of bucks. It could save you thousands. Do it here.


6. Test Ride (If They Let You)

This one’s a trust thing. Some sellers won’t let you unless you hand over cash or ID — fair enough. If you get the green light, here’s what to test:

  • Clutch and gear smoothness

  • Braking feel

  • Any weird vibrations or sounds

  • Steering alignment

No test ride? Be extra thorough with your inspection.


7. Paperwork & Payment

If the bike checks out, time to seal the deal:

  • Get a signed receipt with date, seller info, bike VIN, and price.

  • Make sure they fill out the VicRoads transfer forms.

  • Use bank transfer or cash in person. No PayPal or "cheque clearing" shenanigans.





8. Budget for Extras

Unless it’s freshly serviced, plan to do:

  • Oil change

  • Brake fluid

  • Tyres (maybe)

  • Battery (maybe)

It’s normal to sink a few hundred into a used bike. Just factor it into the price.


9. RWC, Rego & Ride

If you're buying the bike registered, it will need a current RWC to transfer the registration.

Unregistered bikes don't need a RWC, but you will need to get one eventually, if you plan to get it on the road.


Once it’s yours:

  • Submit the transfer to VicRoads within 14 days

  • Sort insurance

  • Put an Air Tag or Tile on it (thieves are everywhere...)

  • Ride it like it owes you rent (safely, of course)


Pro Tip: If your bike is over 25 years old, you could save big money by opting for a Club Permit instead of full road registration.


Final Words from the Alley

Buying a used bike in Melbourne doesn’t have to be sketchy. Do your homework, trust your gut, and don’t rush. The right machine is out there — probably hiding in a shed in Preston or a driveway in Dandenong.


Got questions or need a pre-purchase check? Swing by Machine Alley. We’re not just here to sell — we’re here to keep Melbourne keep riding smart.



Tag us @MachineAlley if you score a sweet secondhand ride. We might even feature it on the feed.

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