Thinking about purchasing a motorcycle? Before you buy that motorcycle and head out on the open road, you should always check its history report. This can help you identify potential problems with the motorcycle and even prevent you from buying one that has been stolen. 

Keep reading below to learn about free and low-cost ways to get a motorcycle history report.

What Is a Motorcycle History Report?

A motorcycle history report is a document that gives you a comprehensive overview of the motorcycle’s background. 

It includes many important details, such as:

  • Whether the motorcycle has been involved in any accidents
  • Title status, such as whether the bike has a rebuilt or salvage title
  • Registration history
  • Service and maintenance history (in some cases)
  • Recall information
  • Odometer readings
  • Lien records

The specific information contained in the report can vary, depending on the provider. Additionally, information regarding service or maintenance may not be available unless the service was provided at a dealer that reports the activity.

Why Is Getting a Motorcycle History Report Important?

Getting a motorcycle history report is important for several reasons. A motorcycle is a big investment, and checking a history report prior to purchase can help you protect that investment. 

First, a motorcycle history report can help you avoid fraudulent sellers. If you find that the motorcycle has a rebuilt or salvage title and the seller did not disclose this fact, you should probably steer clear of the transaction.

Next, it can help you understand how well the motorcycle has been taken care of. Plus, it can make you aware of any prior accidents or damage to the bike. If the motorcycle has suffered substantial damage in a prior accident, it might make you think twice before buying it.

Finally, the history report can help you make sure the vehicle’s true value aligns with the asking price. Putting together all the pieces from the motorcycle’s history should give you a much more accurate estimate of its true value. You might even be able to use information from the report as a negotiating tool to get a better price on the deal.

Obtaining a Free Motorcycle History Report

There are a couple of ways you can obtain a free or low-cost motorcycle history report before you purchase your next ride. 

Free Options

The most common method is to use the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS). This is an official source for title and salvage records, and it can provide you with important information about the history of the motorcycle.

Another option is the National Insurance Crime Bureau VINCheck tool. This is a free service that allows you to check whether the motorcycle has been reported as an insurance theft. It can also allow you to see whether the motorcycle has been registered with a salvage title.

Low-Cost Options

In addition to these free services, there are many low-cost options that may provide even more comprehensive history reports. The cost of these reports usually ranges from $20 to $40, but that can be well worth the information that you obtain. 

Some common reporting services include:

These services typically provide you with instant access to the report once you provide the VIN of the motorcycle.

Contact the Oklahoma City Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Laird Hammons Laird Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today

Even if the motorcycle you purchase has a completely clean history report, you might still find yourself involved in an accident one day. If you are hurt in a motorcycle accident, you may be able to recover compensation from the driver who was at fault. 
It is crucial that you get help from an experienced Oklahoma City motorcycle accident lawyer who can help you put an accurate value on your claim and get the compensation you are owed. Call the team at Laird Hammons Laird Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation and let us help you through the claims process.

For more information, please contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer at Laird Hammons Laird Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. Our law office is located in Oklahoma City.

We proudly serve Oklahoma County, OK and its surrounding areas:

Laird Hammons Laird Personal Injury Lawyers – OKC
1332 SW 89th St,
Oklahoma City, OK 73159
(405) 703-4567