Free Motorcycle Bill of Sale Form

A motorcycle bill of sale form is a written record of a motorcycle sale between a buyer and a seller. It confirms the ownership transfer and documents key details like the VIN, mileage, purchase price, and sale date.

In many states, buyers bring a bill of sale to the DMV when they register the motorcycle or apply for a title. A complete form helps prevent delays if the DMV asks for proof of the transaction.

Use a motorcycle bill of sale any time you sell or buy a motorcycle in a private transaction. It is especially helpful when the motorcycle has details that should be spelled out clearly, such as:

• Modifications or aftermarket parts
• A rebuilt, custom, or swapped frame
• An unclear ownership history
• Extras included in the sale, like panniers, racks, or spare parts

Sellers can also use a bill of sale to show when responsibility for the motorcycle changed hands, which can help with tickets, tolls, or other disputes that happen after the sale.

Sometimes. It depends on your state and whether the motorcycle needs a title.

For example, Maine lists a signed bill of sale as a required document for registration, and it notes that a title is required only for certain motorcycles based on engine size and model year.

If your state requires a title for that motorcycle, a bill of sale usually supports the transaction, but it won’t replace the title on its own. A quick check with your state DMV website can confirm what you’ll need.

If the title is missing, your next step depends on your state’s process.

In many cases, the buyer will need some combination of:

• A signed bill of sale
• A title replacement request from the seller, or proof the seller applied for one
• A VIN inspection, in some situations
• Any state-specific title or registration forms

Because rules vary, it’s best to review your state DMV instructions before you exchange money, so you know whether the seller needs to request a replacement title first.

A strong motorcycle bill of sale is clear, detailed, and easy to match to the motorcycle itself. Here’s what to include.

1. Add Buyer and Seller Information

Include each person’s:

• Full legal name
• Address
• Phone number or email (optional, but helpful)

If the seller’s name needs to match the title exactly, copy it directly from the title to avoid mismatches later.

2. Describe the Motorcycle Clearly

List the basics the DMV and insurance providers often look for:

• Year, make, and model
• VIN
• Color
• Engine size (cc), if you have it
• License plate number (if applicable)

Tip: For accuracy, copy the VIN from the motorcycle frame, not from online listings or old paperwork.

3. Record Mileage and Odometer Details

Write the current mileage shown on the odometer. If the odometer was replaced, rolled over, or the mileage is unknown, note that on the form.

Federal rules can require an odometer disclosure for certain transfers, especially for newer vehicles, so it’s smart to keep mileage documentation consistent.

4. List the Sale Price and Payment Details

Include:

• Sale price
• Payment method (cash, cashier’s check, bank transfer, etc.)
• Deposit amount (if any), and when the remaining balance is due

If the motorcycle is being financed informally, consider pairing this with a separate loan agreement template so repayment terms are in writing.

5. Note Condition, Mods, and Included Extras

Add a short condition summary and list anything included with the sale, such as:

• Luggage, racks, windscreens, or upgraded seats
• Extra keys, service records, or spare parts
• Aftermarket exhaust, suspension, or performance changes

This helps prevent “I thought that was included” disputes later.

6. Choose “As-Is” or a Warranty Statement

Most private sales are “as-is.” If the seller is offering any kind of promise about condition, write it clearly.

If you want extra protection for test rides or handoffs, a release of liability form can also help document risk and responsibility.

7. Add the Sale Date and Transfer Date

Include:

• Date of sale
• Date the buyer takes possession (if different)

These dates matter for registration timing and recordkeeping.

8. Sign the Bill of Sale

Have the buyer and seller sign and date the form. Some states also require notarization for certain transactions.

If you want to add an extra layer of verification, you can attach a notary acknowledgment.