There are a lot of creative ways to make money with motorcycles. However, restoring a gorgeous vintage model and preparing it for a buyer is arguably one of the best ways to make a profit while watching something extraordinary develop right before your eyes. So, take a moment to read up on some tips for restoring vintage motorcycles to sell and learn how to ensure the success of your restoration.
Find a Service Manual
An excellent service manual is arguably one of the most valuable tools you can have at your disposal during a vintage motorcycle restoration. Of course, you’ll want to procure a manual that’s specific to the bike model you plan to restore. But if you can, you should specifically try to obtain what’s known as an OEM factory repair manual. The OEMs provide extensive insight into how your motorcycle is supposed to function and the parts it needs to do so. They also include step-by-step maintenance and assembly instructions. It’s worth noting that these booklets are usually not given to buyers, as they’re typically more useful in the hands of a mechanic. However, if you think that one of these manuals could be helpful for your restoration, you can always find one online.
Plan Your Restoration Carefully
Once you have your manual, it’s time to plan for the actual process of your restoration. Your itinerary should include everything from examining and assessing the condition of your bike to part reassembly, cleaning, and even custom work. Plotting each step of your restoration carefully will help keep the project organized from start to finish. It will also ensure that you produce the best product possible for any parties that might be interested in buying the bike. Each restoration is unique to the condition of the motorcycle being refurbished. But generally, you’ll want to start with more significant fixes, such as the carburetor and gas tank. Then, move on to more minor things, such as oil changes, light replacements, and cosmetic modifications.
Add Personal Touches and Detail
Once your motorcycle is fully restored, it’s time to have some fun by adding personal touches to your design. For instance, you can incorporate personalized handlebars or new paint colors into your bike. Or you can even opt for extra chrome trimming on central features and even custom rims on the wheels. Adding these small touches helps your motorcycle stand out to buyers and helps you develop a personal signature and style for future restorations. And once you’ve made all your modifications, it’s a good idea to invest in a quality motorcycle detailing kit. These kits include the tools necessary to ensure that your bike is clean, illustrious, and aesthetically appealing to prospective buyers. So, don’t overlook this step in the process.
When the time comes for you to embark on your journey to refurbish an old bike, consider some of these tips for restoring vintage motorcycles to sell. Hopefully, they can help ensure that your end product is profitable, gorgeous, and fully functional.
Van Rundell is a writer and author who specializes in transportation, travel, guidance, health & fitness. With over 10 years of experience in the industry as a driver and an entrepreneur, he has seen it all. His tone is professional but friendly with a dash of humor thrown in for good measure. In past, he has been advising, educating and writing about transport for the public and professionals alike.
A qualified fitness instructor with over 5 years’ experience as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, Van brings his deep knowledge of health and exercise science to his articles on health & fitness.
