Craigslist Motorcycle Ads Decoded: Buyer Beware

Craigslist ads are free of charge. Sometimes they're free of truth, too. Here's how to decipher some of the more common claims for bikes you see for sale on Craigslist.

“It ran when I parked it.” ...six years ago under the awning on the side of my motorhome with the gas cap open so the bad gas would evaporate.

“No title, but I have a bill of sale.” ...written on the back of a Taco Bell napkin. The seller’s handwriting wasn't too good, so you can tell the DMV you bought it from me. I’ll back you up if anybody asks.

“Very rare.” Nobody bought them when they were new.

“Classic.” They don’t make parts for them any more.

“Starts with no problem.” Unless kicking it over for 30 minutes is a problem.

“Minor surface rust.” All minor surfaces are rusted.

“Don’t need it any more.” Don’t want it any more.

“Will consider trades.” Anything has got to be better than this.

“Great commuter bike.” Slow and dull.

“Gets great gas mileage.” Uses a quart of oil every 100 miles.

“Perfect Christmas present.” For me, if you pay cash.

“No time to ride.” Had to get second job to pay speeding tickets.

“Never been dropped.” Fell over by itself a few times.

“Tags good until 2011.” As soon as you pay for them.