Start a used motorcycle showroom

Local riders and commuters, plus buyers who want to see and try a bike in person before paying.

Mainly the margin between your purchase and sale price. Extras can add income, such as consignment fees, accessories, helmets and gear, and referrals for financing or insurance.

• Motorcycle knowledge and valuing used bikes
• Sales and customer service
• Basic bookkeeping and managing inventory
• Mechanical know-how or a reliable workshop partner

• Dealer registration and premises requirements, which differ by province. Check with your provincial regulator and municipality before signing a lease
• Garage liability, inventory and property insurance, plus cover for test rides
• Money tied up in unsold stock, especially if sales slow down in winter
• Checking for liens, stolen bikes and accurate histories before you buy
• Safety inspections and consumer protection rules on used vehicle sales in your province
• WCB/WSIB coverage and employment rules if you hire staff, which differ by province
• GST/HST or provincial sales tax rules on used vehicle sales. Check with the CRA and your province

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $50,000 to $150,000, depending on your premises, stock levels and setup. Much of that is usually tied up in used inventory, so keep cash in reserve in case sales slow, especially in winter.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $20,000 to $100,000, depending on stock, location and how many bikes you sell. These are estimates, not guarantees, and revenue is not profit once you subtract stock and running costs.

Check dealer registration and premises requirements with your provincial regulator and municipality before signing a lease. Also check insurance including test-ride cover, lien and stolen-bike checks, safety inspection and consumer protection rules, and sales tax rules with the CRA.