OP, if you don't plan on keeping the Ninja300 for at least 2yrs, then scrap the new appealing look and go for one of the '08+ Ninja250. You're better off spending an extra 500 into gear than the newest bike.
Why do you wanna take the depreciation for buying a new vehicle? Ninja 250s resell for the 90% of price you bought it for (if not dropped in between).
For areas with winter break (too cold) the best time to buy is now or until end of February.
Bikes are tough (especially Kawi, Gixxer and older CBRs) so I wouldn't be too worried buying anything used that doesn't look broken on the first impression. Even if it didn't get regular oil changes or chain care, worn bearings, etc. They keep going and with some TLC forget about the previous bad care.
I really wouldn't go for a brand new as 1st bike. If you still want new, do it with your 2nd bike and work towards that 2013 ZX6R or other brands.
Buy a couple year old used 250R. You shouldn't be spending anywhere near $5500 on a first bike and gear.
OP, I thought you had posted in the Newbie section saying you had settled on a used 250? Either way, I think a used 250r is definitely the way to go.
A 300, let alone a brand new 300 will not hold its value like a year or two old 250r will. And with such a slight difference in performance, the 250r is wayyyy more worth your money. Rarely does anyone stick with their "first bike" so I would think you'll sell your first bike down the road.
As far as the haggling, DO RESEARCH. Hop on craigslist, the forums, local trader magazines etc to see what the going rate is for a used 08-11 250r. Then, you'll have a foundation to stand on when you decide to buy one. But paying $5,500 for a new 300 as your first bike just sounds, well, dumb.
Oh, and to add to what I just said... I know you said you were looking at purchasing a bike in March, well if you are able to, i'd recommend purchasing one before the first of the year because after the first month or two of the year, the prices rise. 1. Because of tax returns and 2. Because of the approach of riding season.
I think in the Newbie section you said you had $4000 saved up already? You should be able to get a nice 08+ 250r for $2000-$2500, then use part of the rest for gear and maybe be left with some insurance money.
Moral of the story, if you CAN snag one before the first of the year, do it IMO. But make sure you do your research first! Good luckkkk.
Have your max amount you will pay and if you can't fathom walking away from deal, then don't even bother. You have to be able to tell a seller no thanks despite their hard sell (individual or dealers) if you can't walk away in good conscience then it's not for you.
Let seller sweeten the deal, as a buyer don't ask for extras or freebies, all it does is piss off the seller.
First bike (for you) buy used as others have said. But seriously asking how to haggle is purely up to each individual. There are no golden rules of what to do, it's always a wing it thing, but as long as you stick to your guns and price it still at the end of the day goes 50/50. good luck!
Flexxx yeah I did. I posted this before I posted that I settled with the 250. But yes I'm going with a 250r used. Would be a pretty dumb move to go a new bike as my first . Thank you everybody ! I will keep you guys posted and let you know when I find one and see what you guys think
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