Right now in Illinois
Demand softens as the riding season ends; prices typically dip 5–10% into fall.
Sales tax on a private sale
Private-party vehicle use tax is a flat amount by price band ($25 under $15,000 for motorcycles).
Trading in usually earns a tax credit on the new bike — you pay tax only on the difference — which is worth comparing against the private-party premium. Rules change; confirm with the Illinois DMV.
Transferring the title
Seller signs the title over to the buyer; the buyer applies for a new title and registration at the DMV. A bill of sale is strongly recommended.
Illinois motorcycle questions
- How much is my motorcycle worth in Illinois?
- It depends on the model, year, mileage and condition, adjusted for the Midwest market. The shortest riding season in the country and the softest used prices — typically 3–5% below the national average, and 10% or more below in the off-season. Enter your bike for a free value computed for your ZIP code.
- When is the best time to sell a motorcycle in Illinois?
- March through June. Illinois has a medium riding season, so buyers appear when the weather does and disappear in the fall. Listing in November can cost 10% or more.
- Do I pay sales tax on a private motorcycle sale in Illinois?
- Private-party vehicle use tax is a flat amount by price band ($25 under $15,000 for motorcycles).
- How do I transfer a motorcycle title in Illinois?
- Seller signs the title over to the buyer; the buyer applies for a new title and registration at the DMV. A bill of sale is strongly recommended.