What Questions should I ask sellers?

[DaveGalt]

I'm just starting my search for a slightly used Spyder Limited. It looks like private sellers have slightly more competitive prices than dealers. But I'm wondering if experienced owners could suggest important questions to ask the sellers. And of course, I'd be interested if anyone thinks I'm mistaken about looking first at private sellers. Thanks for any help. I appreciate your opinions.

[bigbadbrucie]

I'm just starting my search for a slightly used Spyder Limited. It looks like private sellers have slightly more competitive prices than dealers. But I'm wondering if experienced owners could suggest important questions to ask the sellers. And of course, I'd be interested if anyone thinks I'm mistaken about looking first at private sellers. Thanks for any help. I appreciate your opinions.

Don’t know what Spyder you’re thinking of....an F3? Or an RT? You should try to be more specific, but ARTraveler had 2 units for sale..... You might try sending him a PM.

[al0vely]

Yep … hard to answer too vague.

[tibadoe]

If I was private party Spyder shopping, here are a few I would ask:

1. Do you have past Service History records?
2. Do you have title in hand?
3. Verify VIN on title to that on frame.

Doesn't hurt at all to check out private party. But don't get tunnel vision and not check out some dealers. Who knows, may run up on a/some good deals.

Good luck in your Spyder shopping.

[Bfromla]

If I was private party Spyder shopping, here are a few I would ask:

1. Do you have past Service History records?
2. Do you have title in hand?
3. Verify VIN on title to that on frame.

Doesn't hurt at all to check out private party. But don't get tunnel vision and not check out some dealers. Who knows, may run up on a/some good deals.

Good luck in your Spyder shopping.

& *take a riding course lesson for 3 wheels,* visit some dealers anyway for test rides on various models & seating positions. * depending on year model check if any transferable warranty Still available. *Extra accessories are nice, but maybe not what you want- helps to know what various accessories are for before shopping& just being told by person trying to get rid of(sales pitch) *research local dealers service reviews. {FYI VIN# on frame will be on swing arm belt side
(L when sitting on bike) Personally like to verify/test owners maintenance knowledge by Asking the stupid questions & “please show me how”. Checking fluid levels, battery access, bulb change, washing, find codes, -ect (** if they can’t, unfortunately not good indicator of proper maintenance **)dealership can provide a “walk around” education for comparison/starters

[Cobwebs]

I'd ask if there had been any accident damage, warranty issues, anything needing attention now, why they are selling sort of questions while I scoped out their premises for an overall feel of neglect or pride. Stuff like what brand of oil have you used, what tyre pressure have you run, when is the next service due usually gives an insight as to the type of owner you're dealing with. Is he an enthusiast or a dealer captive.
I've always got better prices private sale than thru dealers, but you don't get a warranty do you.

[blacklightning]

I am all about purchasing from private party. I am on my 5th and 6th spyder. The first one (2014 RT) and 3rd (2016 F3T) were purchased new, but the other 4 where all used from a private party. As if there is any warranty left, check recall and service history. Also check to see if there were any accidents. On a side note, I also glance around at other items, such as, is the yard or home kept neat, if there are other vehicles in the yard, do they look somewhat clean and well kept? If the person takes care of his/her property and other vehicles, there is a good chance that they also took good care of their spyder.

[BertRemington]

Concur with blacklightning -- evaluate the seller at least as much as the vehicle. Best to take a friend. If either of you get queasy with either the seller or vehicle then there will be other opportunities.