【Can't Wait!】How long does it take for a motorcycle delivery? Explaining the process and necessary preparations until delivery

How long does motorcycle delivery usually take?

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Once you've signed a contract to purchase a motorcycle, you'll be eagerly awaiting its delivery. Many people probably wish it could be delivered in just one day.

This article explains approximately how many days it takes from signing a motorcycle purchase contract to delivery. If you have purchased a motorcycle or are planning to purchase one, please refer to this information.

Estimated delivery time for new motorcycles

The average delivery time for a new motorcycle is about 1 to 2 weeks, but it can vary slightly depending on factors such as the popularity of the model and the number of vehicles waiting for maintenance at the shop.

The delivery time also changes depending on whether the shop has the motorcycle in stock or if they have to order it from the manufacturer after the purchase contract. For popular models, production at the manufacturer may not keep up, and delivery can take several months.

The delivery time also varies depending on whether the manufacturer has stock or not. If you opt for manufacturer options, it becomes a build-to-order item, which tends to lengthen the delivery time.

Reasons why manufacturer options delay delivery

Manufacturers typically produce and stock models that sell well, focusing on specifications that are most popular.

If there is no stock, production usually begins after a certain number of orders have accumulated, meaning you might have to wait until the next production run.

Therefore, specialized options can take a long time to deliver, but ordering a popular specification might result in a shorter delivery time compared to adding custom options.

Imported motorcycles can take several months to deliver

It is not uncommon for imported motorcycles to take several months from order to delivery.

If the Japanese distributor has stock, delivery can be as quick as 1-2 weeks. However, if there is no stock, the order is placed with the manufacturer's home country, which adds time for production and shipping to Japan.

Unless you have a strong preference for a specific model, choosing from models with available stock that can be delivered quickly will shorten your wait time.

Estimated delivery time for used motorcycles

For used motorcycles, the delivery time varies depending on the bike's maintenance status, typically ranging from 1 to 3 weeks.

Especially for motorcycles that require a vehicle inspection, maintenance is also necessary to pass the inspection. If parts need to be ordered, it can take longer to complete the maintenance, which in turn extends the delivery period.

If the vehicle requires little maintenance, the delivery time is approximately 1 week. For vehicles requiring extensive maintenance, the estimated delivery time is 2 to 3 weeks. (Delivery times may vary depending on the shop's busy schedule.)

Global conditions can significantly extend delivery times

Due to the impact of global conditions, it can take significantly longer from the motorcycle purchase contract to delivery.

The impact of the new infectious disease that occurred in 2019 and the global semiconductor shortage led to a shortage of not only motorcycles, but also cars, home appliances, and all other items that use semiconductors.

Due to such global circumstances, new motorcycles can sometimes take anywhere from half a year to over a year longer to deliver than usual.

Process from motorcycle purchase to delivery

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Once you've decided on the motorcycle you want to buy, you'll enter into a sales agreement. The process from agreement to delivery typically follows these steps:

1. Contract
2. Payment or loan agreement
3. Inspection and maintenance
4. Insurance enrollment
5. Registration or change of ownership
6. Delivery

We will explain each step in detail.

1. Contract

Purchasing a motorcycle begins with visiting a motorcycle shop and deciding on the bike you want. Once the vehicle is chosen, you'll enter into a sales contract.

For used motorcycles, you choose from the shop's inventory. If the desired model is not in stock, it's possible to have it ordered from another store.

For new motorcycles, you decide on the vehicle, color, and options, then enter into a sales contract. Some shops offer paid after-sales services like maintenance packages or oil changes, which you can consider as needed.

2. Payment or loan agreement

When signing the motorcycle purchase agreement, you decide on the payment method for the motorcycle. If paying in cash, the main contract is completed once the cash is submitted. If opting for a loan, there will be a credit company review.

For loans, you decide on the down payment amount, or if there will be no down payment. Once the credit company approves, the main contract is successfully completed.

If the loan is not approved, you must pay in cash, or the contract will be cancelled if you cannot arrange the cash.

3. Inspection and maintenance

Once the motorcycle payment or loan agreement is finalized, used motorcycles and new motorcycles in stock at the shop proceed to inspection and maintenance.

If it's a new motorcycle and the shop doesn't have it in stock, an order is placed with the manufacturer. Inspection and maintenance begin after the motorcycle arrives at the shop, so it will take a few extra days.

Inspection and maintenance involve checking the motorcycle's engine, brakes, headlights, and other components according to legally stipulated inspection items, as well as washing the bike and installing accessories like ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) devices.

4. Insurance enrollment

Motorcycles require "compulsory liability insurance" (Jibaiseki Hoken), which is mandatory, and "optional insurance," which individuals choose to purchase for additional coverage. The compulsory liability insurance is included in the motorcycle purchase price.

Optional insurance supplements the coverage lacking in compulsory liability insurance, and you can customize the coverage for personal injury and property damage.

If you are purchasing a moped, own a car with optional insurance, and your policy includes a family rider clause, adding this rider can reduce your insurance premiums.

5. Registration or change of ownership

After insurance enrollment, the next step is new vehicle registration for new motorcycles or change of ownership for used motorcycles.

New vehicle registration is the process of registering the motorcycle's owner and user at the municipal office for mopeds, or the land transport bureau for motorcycles 125cc and above. Upon registration, a license plate is issued.

Change of ownership is the process of transferring the motorcycle's title when purchasing a used vehicle. Similar to new vehicle registration, the procedure is carried out at the municipal office for mopeds, and the land transport bureau for motorcycles 125cc and above. If purchased from a shop, the shop will likely handle these procedures for you.

6. Delivery

On the delivery date notified by the shop, you will go to the shop to pick up your motorcycle. Be sure to bring your helmet and driver's license.

Once you meet your motorcycle at the shop, inspect it yourself to confirm that there are no scratches if it's a new bike, and that it matches the contract details.

If this is your first time buying a motorcycle, or if you're not confident in checking, it's a good idea to bring along a friend who already rides or someone knowledgeable.

What to prepare before motorcycle delivery day

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Here's a summary of what to prepare while waiting for your motorcycle delivery after purchase.

If you're waiting for your motorcycle delivery or are considering purchasing one, please use this as a reference to be fully prepared for your delivery day.

Government procedures such as name registration

When purchasing a motorcycle from a shop, the shop usually handles procedures such as new registration and change of ownership on your behalf.

If you purchased a motorcycle through a private sale, you will need to handle the change of ownership procedures yourself. Be sure to check the necessary documents and the documents you receive from the other party to complete the process.

Optional insurance enrollment procedures

Unlike compulsory liability insurance, which is mandated by law, optional insurance is something individuals choose to enroll in as needed, but we strongly recommend it as a safeguard against unforeseen circumstances.

If you don't complete the enrollment before your motorcycle delivery date, your insurance won't apply immediately after delivery. So, prepare for delivery by enrolling in optional insurance beforehand.

Securing a parking spot or storage location for your motorcycle

Securing a parking lot or parking space for motorcycle storage is also important.

You can't just leave your motorcycle on the street, so you absolutely need to secure a parking space. If you don't have space at home, make sure to arrange for a parking lot contract in advance.

For security, it's ideal to store the motorcycle in a location that is as inconspicuous as possible. If you can only secure a less visible spot, cover the motorcycle with a sheet to make it less noticeable.

Prepare necessary motorcycle gear

If you're buying a motorcycle for the first time, prepare items like a helmet, gloves, and a motorcycle cover if you'll be storing it outdoors, all before delivery.

Also, a smartphone holder is convenient for using your phone as navigation, and if you plan on touring, storage items like a tank bag or top case are very useful.

What to do on the day of motorcycle delivery

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It's the long-awaited motorcycle delivery day, and many experienced riders probably couldn't sleep much due to excitement.

While motorcycle delivery is exciting, there are several key points to check thoroughly on the day, which we will explain.

Document verification

On the day of motorcycle delivery, in addition to receiving the motorcycle itself, be sure to also receive and confirm all necessary documents.

Check that there are no errors in the address or name on the compulsory liability insurance certificate and the vehicle inspection certificate. Also, receive the recycling ticket. If there are any errors in the content, promptly inform the shop to have it corrected.

Check for scratches and dents

Once you can see the delivered motorcycle, thoroughly check for any scratches, dents, or dirt. If you find any, inform the shop immediately to have them address it.

If you discover scratches after taking the bike home and then inform the shop, it might be difficult to prove where the scratches occurred, and they may not take responsibility.

On delivery day, always thoroughly inspect the entire body of the bike for scratches or dents before leaving the shop with it.

Receiving signature

Once you have checked the motorcycle and the documents, and if there are no issues, sign the receipt to complete the delivery.

If problems are found after signing the receipt, they may not be addressed, so always check everything thoroughly before signing.

Fill up with gas

Delivered motorcycles often have very little gas, so the first thing you should do after delivery is to fill up at a gas station.

If your motorcycle was delivered to your home or another location, it's a good idea to refuel as soon as possible, perhaps on a test ride.

Motorcycle Delivery FAQ

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Here's a summary of common issues, frequently asked questions, and their answers regarding motorcycle delivery.

If you're waiting for your motorcycle delivery or are considering purchasing one, please use this as a reference.

No delivery contact! What should I do?

If it's the delivery date and you haven't received any contact from the motorcycle shop, try contacting them to ask what time you should pick up the bike.

For deliveries to your home or a location other than the motorcycle shop, confirming the approximate delivery time beforehand will help you plan your schedule.

Is it okay to ride it home on the day of delivery?

It is perfectly fine to ride your motorcycle home on the day of delivery.

Delivery is the handover of the motorcycle, so if you delay picking it up for too long past the delivery date, there have been rare cases where storage fees were charged.

What do I need to bring on delivery day?

On delivery day, if you're riding the motorcycle home, you'll need appropriate riding attire such as a helmet and gloves.

If you've paid a deposit and the remaining balance is due at delivery, payment of the balance is a condition for the motorcycle handover, so don't forget to bring the remaining amount.

Summary

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We've explained the basics of motorcycle delivery, including the process from contract to delivery and the delivery period for new and used motorcycles.

Many people are excited about the delivery of a new motorcycle, but for popular models or bikes not in stock at the manufacturer, delivery can take more than a month.

If you want to speed up your motorcycle delivery, make sure to gather and submit all necessary documents for the purchase as quickly as possible to get your delivery wait started promptly.