When riders start looking for their first off-road motorcycle, they find themselves in a dilemma of whether to go for a new or a used one. Indeed, both options have their pros and cons, with price being the most weighty factor. In the article below, we will explain what to expect in both cases and how to buy off-road motorbike with the most benefit for you, no matter whether it is new or used.
Buying a new off-road motorcycle in the UAE: Key advantages
1. Best condition and full working capacity
Off-road vehicles are meant for harsh riding conditions. When you buy a new vehicle, you get it with an engine and all other major parts working at fill capacity. This also means a longer lifespan for your bike.
2. Latest technology at your disposal
If you are a savvy rider who values state-of-the-art technology, then you can go for the off-road motorcycle of the latest year and enjoy the most advanced features and components. With used models, this is unlikely.
3. Manufacturer warranty
One of the biggest advantages of buying a new bike is that it is covered with a warranty for at least the first two years. Most manufacturers cover engine, transmission, and key electrical parts as part of their standard warranty. Besides, with many brands, you get access to their regular service maintenance under the warranty coverage.
Possible downsides
Higher initial cost
The main stopping factor for many riders is the price. Off-road motorbike price in the UAE can range from AED 4,000 50 AED 40,000 for high-end professional models. The average price for middle-range bikes will be around AED 9,000.
Depreciation starts immediately
This applies to any new vehicle. As soon as you take it out of the showroom, it loses 30% of its value straight away.
Buying a used off-road motorbike in the UAE: Key advantages
1. Lower price
The main factor for most riders is always the price, especially for beginners who want to buy an off-road motorcycle in the UAE without overspending. For example, in the UAE, a new Honda CRF450R 2025 starts from around AED 37,900 at the official dealer. At the same time, a 2023 Honda CRF450R with only about 52 km on the clock is listed on classifieds for around AED 25,000. That’s roughly a 34% lower price for a bike that’s just about two years old and barely used.
2. Access to high-performance models
In the pre-owned market, you also have many more options of high-performance bikes at a lower price. Let’s say you have AED 7,000. If you want a new bike, you can buy a basic model, like the Sharmax Sport 250. Very basic, yet new and solid. However, in the market of used vehicles, you may find a model with better specs around the same price but of 2017 year of manufacturing.
3. Not afraid of drops and scratches
A used bike has already survived its first scratches, so you don’t have to treat it like fragile glass. A small fall won’t feel like a disaster compared to dropping a brand-new model. You feel more relaxed learning off-road techniques when you know a small fall won’t ruin a pristine machine.
Possible risks
1. Unknown history of riding
Given that we are talking about off-road motorcycles for sale, the previous style of riding them was most likely tough. The bike might have been used for hardcore motocross or enduro competitions. Or its overall upkeep and maintenance was bad. You can never know for sure, and the brunt of all repairs will be on you.
2. Wear and tear
No matter how tough the bike is, off-roading will take its toll. Unlike road motorcycles, dirt bikes operate under much heavier loads, and their components come under constant stress from rough terrain and off-road riding style. All this makes the lifespan of your bike shorter.
3. No warranty
Unless you are buying from a dealership that trades pre-owned vehicles and provides a limited warranty, you get no coverage or support if anything goes wrong with your purchased motorcycles.
Choosing an off-road motorcycle in the UAE: new vs pre-owned
Let’s assume you have a choice to go for a cheap new motorcycle or for a high-performance off-road motorbike that has been in use for a season or two. The price is more or less the same. What should you do?
Compare specifications: If the used one has liquid cooling and more advanced suspension and other features, it might bring more value than the basic configuration of a new model you are looking at. The latter will most likely have air cooling, a carburetor, and non-adjustable suspension.
Consider possible repairs: A freshly purchased bike will need minimal maintenance, just the routine ones, while a used one will require extra service very soon.
Think of your purpose: If you want to buy an off-road motorcycle just for hobby rides on weekends, then you probably don’t need professional features in a bike with high displacement, and there is no need to overpay for them. A new, solid, middle-range bike in a basic configuration will be more than enough.
Upgrade at a lower price: If you are already familiar with off-roading and looking for a better model this time, yet your budget is limited, then your choice is the pre-owned market. For example, in the UAE, you can find a 2023 Honda CRF450R for just AED 13,000 or a 2024 Husqvarna FC450 for AED 22,500.
Final Thoughts: Buying an off-road motorbike – should you choose new or used?
If you want to buy an off-road motorbike for professional use, competitions, or just for hobby rides, and you want to avoid repairs and unexpected breakdowns, then buy from a dealer. The upfront cost is high, yet the maintenance is low, and the vehicle’s lifespan will be longer.
As for used bikes, they might also be a good option to upgrade at a lower cost, to test your beginner riding skills, or to hone your motocross skills at tough tracks. The purchase price is lower, but you should budget extra for repair services in the long term.
