Buying an unassembled bike?

[Thaeos]

Does anyone know where/if you're able to get an unassembled/kit bike? Like a 250cc offroad or similar.

[Racing Dave]

If you have a good relationship with your dealer, it's easy. My last five new bikes have been in crates, and I've done the assembly myself at home.

The problem is if you cock it up, then warranty will become a serious issue. Likewise, the dealer needs to know that you've actually got the ability.

It's not difficult by any means, but discuss it with the proposed bike shop and see what they say. I wouldn't do it any other way, but then I'm super fussy about set up - it gives you the chance to remove axles, swingarm, steering head bearings, suspension linkages, etc to ensure that plenty of grease is applied while it's spotlessly clean. Likewise chain tension can be set correctly. Each of my last five needed the chains loosening before the first ride.

Peace of mind is worth the effort.

[Parlane]

Does this save you money?

[Racing Dave]

Once again, it depends on the relationship you have with your dealer. You might be able to sharpen up the price, but it won't be by much, as there's not much in it for a dealer, anyway. He won't want a warranty come-back from you stuffing it up for the saving of him not assembling the bike.

I do it for the peace of mind and the pleasure of fettling the bikes to my taste.