Used motorcycle dealer from home

Everyday riders, commuters, new riders after a first bike and enthusiasts looking for a particular model.

The margin between what you pay for a bike (plus prep and any repairs) and what you sell it for. Some dealers add paid extras such as security kit and helmets.

• Good knowledge of motorcycles and their common faults
• Spotting a fair price when buying
• Honest, clear communication with buyers
• Basic bookkeeping and record keeping

• Motor trade insurance and public liability cover, check what each policy covers
• Consumer law: bikes sold by a trader must be of satisfactory quality and as described, so check your obligations to buyers
• Stolen or finance-owing bikes, always run a history check before buying
• Running a trade from home may need permission from your landlord, mortgage lender or council, and planning rules may apply to customer visits
• Cash tied up in stock can be slow to come back if a bike doesn't sell

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on how many bikes you buy at first, your insurance and any tools or prep equipment. Cash tied up in stock can be slow to come back.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around £1,500 to £8,000, depending on how many bikes you sell, the models you focus on and how quickly stock moves. This is revenue, so the cost of buying and preparing bikes comes out of it.

Check motor trade insurance and public liability cover, and your consumer law obligations as a trader selling bikes of satisfactory quality and as described. Run a history check on every bike, and check whether your landlord, lender or council allows trading from home.