Is Bike One's Motorcycle Appraisal High? A Comprehensive Guide from Reviews and Reputation to Tips for Increasing Your Appraisal Value!

What is Bike One? Basic Information Explained

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"Bike One" is a specialty motorcycle purchasing store that offers on-site appraisals throughout Japan, with its head office located in Sumida-ku, Tokyo. As a specialized motorcycle purchasing store, you can expect high appraisal values, and applying for an appraisal is easy.
To apply for an appraisal, you can do so online via their official website or by calling their 24-hour phone reception (appraisal hotline) which operates 24 hours a day.
Additionally, by entering your bike's model, mileage, and year on the official website, you can get an approximate purchase price, which is convenient for understanding the current value of your beloved bike.

Bike One Company Information

Bike One is operated by Bike One Co., Ltd., which has its head office in Sumida-ku, Tokyo.
Its main businesses include free on-site appraisals and purchases nationwide, sales of new and used domestic and imported vehicles, maintenance and repairs, vehicle inspections, and handling various non-life insurance products, covering all aspects of the motorcycle business.
Established in 2007, the company has been in business for over 15 years (as of March 2022).

Wide Range of Purchases, from Domestic and Foreign Bikes to Kit Bikes

Bike One purchases all types of motorcycles, including domestic bikes, imported bikes, custom bikes, self-assembled kit bikes, and even three-wheeled trikes.
Even non-operational or accident-damaged bikes may be appraised, and the purchase appraisal hotline has specialized operators who can answer questions like "Can my bike be appraised?" or "What is the purchase process?"
While Bike One is a strong ally for motorcycle sales, let's first look at the "user reviews and testimonials" to better understand their actual services and responsiveness.

Bike One Reviews and Testimonials

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In this section, we introduce reviews and testimonials from people who have used Bike One.
To ensure fairness, we will present both "positive and negative" reviews, but let's start with the positive ones.

Positive Reviews and Testimonials for Bike One's Appraisal Service

Comparison of motorcycle purchase prices from a motorcycle buying company that actually came for an on-site appraisal

1st place: Bike One 150,000 yen

2nd place: Bike O 140,000 yen

3rd place: Red Baron 100,000 yen

4th place: Bike Land 90,000 yen

All the same bike was appraised, but there's quite a difference 🤔

The purchased bike cost about 220,000 yen 🛵

Bike O offered a relatively high price on the first appraisal 😎
pic.twitter.com/bRcvNl7eGe

— あき@2023年中に仕事辞める凡人 (@Akraft3594) October 18, 2020

It seems that after having their bike appraised by multiple companies, Bike One, who provided the first appraisal, offered the highest price.
While some companies might offer a better appraisal after hearing other companies' offers, the key point here is that Bike One offered the highest price "on the first appraisal."
This review indicates that Bike One's purchasing power is stronger than other companies.

It seems Bike One offered a higher appraisal than their competitor, Bike O.
While motorcycle purchasing companies generally offer higher prices than selling at a motorcycle shop, this case shows that Bike One offered an even higher appraisal among those purchasing companies.

It seems that Bike One offered a high appraisal, exceeding expectations, after the user had appraisals from two motorcycle shops. This demonstrates Bike One's strength in purchasing.
When selling a bike, it can sometimes lead to a higher purchase price if you take the trouble to get appraisals from several shops.

It seems the user was satisfied with Bike One's high appraisal.
Not only was the appraisal good, but the staff's service also appears to have been excellent.

When I had my motorcycle appraised by Bike One and Bike Ou, Bike One quoted 150,000 yen while Bike Ou quoted 30,000 yen, a fivefold difference.
Given such a large discrepancy, it makes one wonder if Bike Ou's appraisal was correct, rather than Bike One being overly generous. However, it seems Bike One provided a thorough appraisal.

Bike One often provides higher appraisals than other buyers, which seems to lead to customer satisfaction and positive reviews. In some cases, there was a fivefold difference between Bike One's appraisal and other companies', and for a cherished motorcycle, it's natural to want a fair valuation.
While many reviews strongly suggest that Bike One is better at buying motorcycles than its competitors, what about negative reviews and feedback?

Negative Reviews and Feedback on Bike One's Purchase Appraisals

Next, let's look at Bike One's negative reviews and feedback.

It seems that the wide disparity in the purchase price, initially quoted as 90,000 yen and eventually rising to 230,000 yen, led to a sense of distrust.
Moreover, the owner's cherished motorcycle was harshly criticized, which certainly wouldn't leave a good impression.
It appears there were issues with the appraisal staff, including not properly wearing a mask and being held up for about two hours.

バイクワンの車が誰の断りも無く勝手に会社の目の前の道に駐車してた😠こんな停め方したら業務邪魔になるし、何より通行人の邪魔になるのが分からないのかな？🙄
常識無さすぎだね🤷🏻‍♂️
(10分以上運転手を待ってたけど結局帰ってきませんでした🤬)#バイクワン
#迷惑駐車 pic.twitter.com/pqVGjEcL3j

— シン (@a9Dr1XaP5Te6SMk) March 22, 2022

Although it doesn't seem to be from a Bike One customer, the Bike One truck was parked in an inconvenient location, obstructing pedestrians and business operations.
Trucks are larger vehicles and don't have the same parking options as passenger cars, but they should have considered the parking spot more carefully.

This review mentions unpleasant behavior from the staff who came to appraise a motorcycle.
While the specific details of the unpleasantness are not provided, it is hoped that they can provide a more pleasant experience.

Apparently, he called Bike One to sell his moped, but the conversation with the staff member he spoke to didn't go well. It's certainly frustrating when you can't get your message across.
He also said that they wouldn't come to his location, but whether or not they offer on-site service depends on the displacement, model, and other factors.

Many of the negative reviews and comments about Bike One were not about the purchase price, but about the attitude and response of the staff.
While there are always a certain number of customer service representatives with poor attitudes in any industry, even if you get a high appraisal, a bad experience with the staff can leave a negative impression.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Bike One

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What are the advantages and disadvantages of using Bike One?
First, let's look at the advantages.

Advantages of Using Bike One

There are six advantages to using Bike One:
1. As a specialty motorcycle buyer, they offer high purchase prices.
2. Online appraisal provides an approximate purchase price.
3. Campaigns to increase appraisal value are held regularly.
4. Non-running or accident-damaged motorcycles can also be purchased.
5. Motorcycles still under loan can be purchased.
6. Free on-site appraisal anywhere in the country.
Let's look at them one by one.

① Higher Purchase Prices as a Motorcycle Purchase Specialist

Since Bike One specializes in buying motorcycles, they offer higher purchase prices than selling to a motorcycle dealership.
Many tweets about Bike One also mention "high purchase prices."
While there are many other motorcycle buying specialists besides Bike One, Bike One has a reputation for high purchase standards.

② Online Appraisal to Get an Approximate Purchase Price

On Bike One's official website, you can use the "Online Automatic Appraisal" to get an approximate purchase price immediately by entering information about your motorcycle, such as its model, year, and mileage.
Even if you plan to sell your bike a little later, using the online automatic appraisal will let you know its current value.
If the purchase price is higher than expected, you can sell your bike to Bike One and look for your next model.

③ Regular Campaigns to Increase Appraisal Value

Campaigns are held to increase appraisal values, often during periods when more used motorcycles are expected to sell, and they want to secure a large inventory of used bikes.
These campaigns are held regularly and offer a good opportunity to sell your motorcycle for a higher price than usual.
If you're considering selling your motorcycle but aren't in a hurry, it's a good idea to take advantage of these campaigns to get a better deal.

④ Non-running or accident-damaged motorcycles can also be purchased

Bike One can buy motorcycles even if they are not running, such as those with engine problems. They can also buy accident-damaged motorcycles. If you are having trouble disposing of a non-running or accident-damaged motorcycle, it would be a good idea to consult Bike One.

⑤ Motorcycles still under loan can be purchased

Generally, motorcycles under loan cannot be sold until the loan is fully repaid, but Bike One can purchase motorcycles even if they are still under loan.
Bike One will check the remaining loan amount, and if the purchase price exceeds the remaining loan balance, you will receive the difference.
However, if the purchase price is not enough to cover the loan, you will need to pay the deficit (remaining debt) in cash.

⑥ Free on-site appraisal anywhere in the country

Bike One offers free on-site appraisals anywhere in the country.
To apply online, simply enter your motorcycle information, ownership details, contact information, and preferred date and time for the on-site appraisal.
You can choose a preferred time in 2-hour increments between 9:00 AM and 8:00 PM (only 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM is in 1-hour increments), and an appraiser will come to your location at your chosen time.
The appraiser's arrival time may vary, and the appraisal and explanation may take some time, so it's a good idea to allow an extra 1 to 2 hours beyond your preferred appraisal time.

Disadvantages of Using Bike One

Next to the advantages of Bike One, let's also look at the disadvantages.
The main disadvantages are:
1. The actual purchase price may be lower than the online appraisal.
2. The appraisal value may vary depending on the appraiser.
3. Limited number of branches, so on-site appraisals are the main method.
4. On-site appraisals may not be available for certain models.

① The actual purchase price may be lower than the online appraisal.

While Bike One's online automatic appraisal provides an approximate value, the true appraisal value can only be determined by a physical inspection by an appraiser.
Therefore, the actual purchase price may sometimes be lower than the online appraisal.

② Appraisal values may vary depending on the appraiser.

Appraisal values can vary depending on the appraiser's judgment.
While there's less variation for popular models or bikes in like-new condition, older models, bikes with numerous minor scratches, or accident-damaged vehicles are more likely to see appraisal value differences among appraisers.

③ Limited number of branches, so on-site appraisals are the main method.

Bike One's branches are located in Tokyo (headquarters), Saitama, Kanagawa, Aichi, Hyogo, Fukuoka, and Miyazaki, and unlike motorcycle chain stores like Red Baron, they do not have branches nationwide.
Also, on-site appraisals are the main method for purchase appraisals, and appraisers come from the nearest branch, so it may take several days for an appraisal if you are far from a branch.
The fact that it can take several days for an appraisal, which would not happen at a physical store, can be considered a disadvantage.

④ On-site appraisals may not be available for certain models.

Depending on the model, such as mopeds or older vehicles, on-site appraisals may not be available.
On-site appraisals may be declined if the travel expenses outweigh the potential profit, for instance, when appraising a moped in a location far from a branch.
Additionally, while Bike One branches generally do not conduct appraisals on-site, it may be possible to arrange one by contacting them in advance.

Bike One's Motorcycle Purchase Process

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Bike One is renowned for its high-priced motorcycle purchases, but what is the actual process like? This section explains Bike One's purchase flow, so if you're considering selling your motorcycle, please refer to it.

① First, apply online.

First, apply online through Bike One's official website.
For online applications, enter your motorcycle's information in the "Online Automatic Appraisal" and tap (or click on a PC) "Automatic Appraisal" to see an approximate appraisal amount.
If you are satisfied with the appraisal amount, choose either "To the purchase dial" or "To the on-site appraisal application form."
"To the purchase dial" connects you to an operator via a toll-free number, while "To the on-site appraisal application form" requires you to fill in the necessary information and wait for a call from a representative.

② Get a free on-site appraisal.

Once you receive contact from a staff member regarding your appraisal request, discuss and decide on the location, date, and time for the on-site appraisal.
On the day of the on-site appraisal, an appraisal staff member will contact you again for confirmation, so be sure to respond.
Please note that failing to respond will result in the appraisal being canceled.

③ If you are satisfied with the appraisal, proceed with the contract and payment.

At the scheduled date and time for the on-site appraisal, your motorcycle will be appraised at the designated location.
The appraisal usually takes about 20-30 minutes, but for custom or special vehicles, it may take a little longer, so allow yourself ample time for the appraisal.
If you have original parts for a custom vehicle, showing them together can sometimes increase the appraisal value.
Once you are satisfied with the appraisal value, proceed with the motorcycle sales contract and payment.
If you have received an appraisal from another company, presenting that result can sometimes lead to an increased appraisal value.

④ Name change / deregistration process

After the motorcycle sales contract, you sign the documents and hand over the motorcycle.
The name change and deregistration process will be completed in about two weeks after the handover, and you will receive documents related to the process by mail at your address, so please check to ensure the process has been completed properly.

Tips for Increasing Your Purchase Price at Bike One

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There are several tips for increasing your purchase price at Bike One.

① Submit genuine parts and custom parts for appraisal together.

Bike One buys customized motorcycles, but if you still have the genuine parts, submit them for appraisal along with the bike.
Bike One also appraises parts, and there is more demand for bikes in their original condition, so for customized vehicles, genuine parts can increase the appraisal value.

② Sell during periods when appraisal values tend to be higher.

Motorcycles don't sell much in winter, but sales pick up around March as the motorcycle season approaches.
To secure sufficient inventory for periods when more motorcycles are sold, purchase prices tend to increase during these times.
If you don't have an urgent reason to sell immediately, it's best to sell during a period when appraisal values are likely to be higher.

③ Get multiple quotes from other companies to use as leverage.

If you have appraisals from other companies, you can use them to compete and potentially increase your appraisal value.
If you want to increase your appraisal value even a little, it's a bit of a hassle, but it's a good idea to get appraisals from other shops as well.

Questions about selling motorcycles at Bike One

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Here are frequently asked questions and answers when selling a motorcycle at Bike One.
Please use this as a reference when selling your motorcycle at Bike One.

What documents are required to sell a motorcycle?

When selling a motorcycle, you will need the vehicle inspection certificate (Light Vehicle Notification Certificate for 250cc or less / Vehicle Registration Certificate for 125cc or less), compulsory automobile liability insurance certificate, your seal (hanko - a recognized seal is fine), and identification (such as a driver's license).

Can I sell a motorcycle registered under a friend's name?

It is possible to sell a motorcycle registered under a friend's name.
When selling, you will need a copy of your friend's identification, a transfer certificate for the motorcycle, and a power of attorney.

What should I do if there's a remaining loan balance or the ownership is still with the motorcycle shop?

If there is an outstanding balance on your motorcycle loan and the motorcycle shop is still the owner, you must repay the motorcycle loan in full.
Bike One will check "how much of the loan balance remains" and will also handle the loan repayment procedures for free.

Can minors sell motorcycles?

Minors can sell a motorcycle either by being accompanied by a parent or guardian, or by providing a letter of consent from a parent or guardian.

Summary

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We have explained Bike One, which offers on-site motorcycle purchasing, including reviews, advantages and disadvantages, and the sales process. You can easily apply for an on-site purchase online through Bike One's official website.
We have also explained tips for increasing the appraisal value, so if you are considering selling your motorcycle, please refer to them.