What is High Mileage for a Motorcycle?
Did you know some motorcycles have been ridden for over 100,000 miles and are still going strong? While that’s not the norm, it proves that high mileage doesn’t always mean a bike is at the end of its life. Unlike cars, where high mileage usually means trouble, motorcycles are a bit different. How long a bike lasts depends on a mix of factors, including maintenance, riding habits, and the type of motorcycle.
In this blog, we’ll look at what mileage is considered high, how it varies by motorcycle type, how long motorcycles typically last, and whether a high-mileage bike is worth buying.
Short Answer: How Many Miles Is Considered High for a Motorcycle?
A motorcycle is generally considered high mileage once it reaches 20,000 to 50,000 miles. While this number can vary, it’s a common benchmark when buying or selling a used bike. At this point, a motorcycle’s value may start to decrease, and buyers often take a closer look at its overall condition before making a decision.
High Mileage Can Look Different for All Motorcycle Types
Not all motorcycles age the same way, and what’s considered high mileage can depend on the type of bike. Some motorcycles are built for long-distance travel and can handle higher mileage, while others are ridden harder and may wear out sooner. Here’s a general breakdown of high mileage for different types of motorcycles:
Sportbikes: 20,000 to 30,000 miles. These bikes are often ridden aggressively, which can lead to faster engine wear. A sportbike with over 30,000 miles is typically considered high mileage.
Cruisers: 40,000 to 60,000 miles. Built for relaxed riding, cruisers tend to last longer with proper maintenance. Many well-maintained cruisers easily surpass 60,000 miles.
Touring Motorcycles: 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Designed for long-distance travel, these bikes are built to handle high mileage. Some models, like the Honda Gold Wing and BMW R 1250 RT, can last well beyond 100,000 miles with routine upkeep.
Dirt Bikes & Dual-Sports: 10,000 to 20,000 miles. Because they’re used off-road and put through demanding conditions, dirt bikes and dual-sports usually have shorter lifespans.
Adventure Bikes: 40,000 to 70,000 miles. These motorcycles are made for both on-road and off-road riding, meaning their lifespan depends heavily on how they’ve been used.
How Long Do Motorcycles Typically Last?
Most motorcycles can last anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles, but some models go well beyond that. Touring bikes and cruisers tend to have longer lifespans, while sportbikes and dirt bikes often don’t make it as far. The number of years a motorcycle lasts also varies, as some are ridden daily while others spend most of their time parked.
Age can also impact a motorcycle’s lifespan. Even with low mileage, older bikes may develop issues due to parts wearing out over time. On the other hand, a motorcycle that has been regularly used but kept in good shape can stay on the road for decades.
Is Mileage The Only Thing That Matters?
No, while mileage is important, it's not the only factor that determines a motorcycle’s condition. A bike with 50,000 miles that has been well cared for can be in better shape than one with 20,000 miles that has been neglected. When buying or selling a motorcycle, it’s important to look beyond the odometer and consider other factors that affect its longevity and performance.
Here are a few other things that should be taken into consideration:
Service History: A complete maintenance record shows that the bike has been properly cared for, with regular oil changes, chain adjustments, and other necessary upkeep.
Previous Owners: A motorcycle that has had multiple owners may have an unknown history, while a single-owner bike is often easier to assess.
Type of Use: A bike that has been used for long highway rides will typically have less wear and tear than one that has seen frequent short trips or aggressive riding.
Storage Conditions: Motorcycles that have been stored indoors and protected from the elements tend to hold up better over time.
Accident History: Even if a bike looks fine, previous accidents can lead to hidden structural or mechanical issues.
Modifications: Aftermarket parts and performance upgrades can impact the reliability of a motorcycle, depending on the quality of the work and components used.
Is it Worth Buying a High Mileage Motorcycle?
A high-mileage motorcycle can still be a great purchase, but it depends on the bike’s overall condition and how well it’s been maintained. While some buyers avoid motorcycles with 50,000 miles or more, others know that mileage alone doesn’t tell the whole story.
If a motorcycle has been regularly serviced, stored properly, and ridden responsibly, it can still have plenty of life left. Some touring bikes and cruisers are built to handle 100,000 miles or more, making them a solid investment even with higher numbers on the odometer.
However, buying a high-mileage bike does come with some risks. Parts naturally wear down over time, and certain components, like the engine, transmission, and suspension, may require costly repairs or replacements. It’s always a good idea to inspect the motorcycle in person, check its service history, and, if possible, take it for a test ride before making a decision.
A high-mileage motorcycle can be worth buying if it has been well cared for and fits within your budget. Just be sure to look at more than just the odometer and consider all the other factors that affect a bike’s condition.
Browse Used Motorcycles for Sale at North American Warhorse
A used motorcycle with higher mileage isn’t always a bad buy, and a low-mileage bike isn’t always the better deal. The key is knowing what to look for. At North American Warhorse, we have a wide selection of used motorcycles, giving you options no matter what your budget or riding plans look like. Stop by our dealership in Dunmore, PA, near Scranton, to check out our inventory in person or browse online to see what’s available. If you’re not sure what’s right for you, our team can help you find a bike that makes sense for your needs. Contact us today for more information!
Summary
A motorcycle is generally considered high mileage once it reaches 20,000 to 50,000 miles, but that number doesn’t always tell the full story. Some bikes with higher miles are still solid choices, while others may have more wear than expected. Instead of focusing only on mileage, it’s important to consider the type of bike, how it has been used, and its overall condition. Taking the time to look beyond the odometer can make all the difference in finding a motorcycle that’s worth the ride.
