Motorcycle loan companies: Secure the best financing for your two-wheel lifestyle
Learn how motorcycle loan companies can help you secure your bike without breaking the bank!
Unlike traditional car loans, motorcycle loans can be more complex, often carrying higher interest rates, shorter repayment terms, and stricter requirements.
By choosing the right lender, you ensure manageable monthly payments, strong customer support, and the flexibility to refinance or upgrade in the future.
Ready to compare competitive rates? Discover how the best motorcycle loan companies make financing flexible and rider-friendly.
Also compare lenders and negotiate to secure the best used motorcycle loan rate—lock in favorable terms and ride away with confidence today.
Get to know why motorcycle loan companies is different from car loans 🏍️
Car financing dominates the U.S. market, with banks and credit unions leading the way.
However, motorcycles are considered higher risk by lenders due to accident rates, seasonal use, and faster depreciation compared to cars.
This often results in higher APRs and stricter approval criteria. Understanding these differences helps you anticipate what motorcycle loan companies will expect:
- Loan amounts are smaller: Average motorcycle loans range from $5,000 to $25,000, while car loans average $40,000+.
- APR is higher: Many motorcycle loans add 1–4% on top of comparable car loan rates.
- Terms are shorter: Expect 24–60 months, compared to 72–84 months commonly offered on auto loans.
- Down payments matter more: Lenders may require 10–20% upfront for motorcycles.
This doesn’t mean motorcycle financing is out of reach—it simply means being strategic is critical.
Compare leading motorcycle loan companies riders should know 🚦
Here’s a detailed look at some of the top motorcycle loan companies in 2025, including traditional lenders, credit unions, and brand-affiliated finance arms:
| Lender/Company | APR Range (2025) | Best For |
| LightStream (Truist) | ~7% – 15% | Excellent-credit seeking fast approval and no restrictions |
| Harley-Davidson Financial | ~6% – 13% | Brand-loyal riders who want perks and promo APRs |
| Consumers Credit Union | ~5% – 11% | Riders with strong credit who want ultra-low APRs |
| Navy Federal Credit Union | ~6% – 12% | Military members/veterans seeking competitive rates |
| Capital One Auto Finance | ~7% – 14% | Used buyers looking for easy prequalification |
| First Tech Federal CU | ~6% – 12% | Buyers of older, high-mileage, or electric motorcycles |
Compared to banks, credit unions generally offer the most affordable rates, while manufacturer financing provides promotions that can drastically lower APRs for limited-time offers.
Secure your ride with a motorcycle loan Wells Fargo — compare rates, check eligibility, and apply with flexible repayment options today.
See types of motorcycles financed by lenders 🛵
Different motorcycle loan companies evaluate each motorcycle category differently, adjusting APRs, terms, and requirements. Here’s a structured list with more details:
Cruiser motorcycles 🛡️
- Examples: Harley-Davidson Softail, Indian Scout
- Financing advantages: Lower depreciation, higher resale value
- Typical loan terms: Up to 72 months with competitive APRs
- Lender perks: Harley-Davidson Financial often provides loyalty rewards, bundled service packages, and promotional APRs
- Borrower profile: Stable riders seeking long-term ownership and predictable payments
Sportbikes ⚡
- Examples: Yamaha R6, Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
- Financing challenges: Faster depreciation, higher insurance costs
- Typical loan terms: 48–60 months, often capped to reduce lender risk
- APRs: Slightly higher compared to cruisers or touring bikes
- Requirements: Larger down payments, GAP insurance, and extended coverage often recommended
Touring motorcycles 🗺️
- Examples: Honda Gold Wing, BMW K1600
- Financing characteristics: High-value bikes exceeding $30,000
- Typical loan terms: Extended up to 84 months through banks and credit unions
- Benefits: Lower monthly payments but higher long-term interest costs
- Lender extras: Some financing packages include insurance bundles and accessory protection
Electric motorcycles 🔋
- Examples: Zero SR/F, Harley-Davidson LiveWire
- Financing traits: Rapidly growing but niche segment, with less resale data available
- Loan terms: Generally shorter, but progressive lenders offer flexibility
- Special programs: Green loan discounts from credit unions like First Tech FCU
- Incentives: Potential eligibility for federal tax credits and state rebates, lowering effective cost
Custom and vintage motorcycles 🏆
- Examples: Classic Harley choppers, restored Triumphs
- Financing issues: Harder to value, not always accepted by mainstream banks
- Loan terms: Usually shorter (24–48 months)
Click below and find the best electric motorcycle financing in 2025!
Know the pros and cons of financing through motorcycle loan companies ⚖️
Pros:
- Lets you afford premium bikes without full upfront payment.
- Builds credit when managed responsibly.
- Many lenders offer refinancing if rates improve later.
Cons:
- Higher interest rates compared to auto loans.
- Depreciation may leave you upside down (owing more than the bike’s worth).
- Insurance requirements can raise overall ownership cost.
Balancing these factors ensures you choose the right plan for your financial stability.
Read our tips to secure better terms with motorcycle loan companies 💡
To maximize your approval chances and reduce borrowing costs, consider:
- Improve credit score: Raising your score by even 20 points can lower your APR.
- Increase your down payment: Lenders reward borrowers who invest upfront.
- Get pre-approved: Walking into a dealership with financing secured gives you bargaining power.
- Compare at least 3 lenders: Never accept the first offer—competition drives down costs.
- Check total cost: Always calculate APR + insurance + fees + maintenance.
How new vs. used motorcycle loans differ 🆕
- New bikes: Often come with manufacturer promotions, such as 0% APR for 12 months or loyalty rebates.
- Used bikes: Usually financed at higher rates, but lower purchase prices balance overall payments.
- Older/custom bikes: Not all lenders will finance them; credit unions often have the most flexibility.
Long-term strategies for motorcycle financing in 2025 📅
Interest rates remain elevated, but refinancing opportunities may arise if the Federal Reserve lowers rates later in the year. Riders financing today should:
- Consider shorter loan terms to avoid long exposure to high interest.
- Reassess refinancing in 12–24 months.
- Select motorcycles with strong resale value (Harley-Davidson, Honda, BMW touring bikes) to minimize depreciation risk.
Smarter motorcycle loan decisions for your journey 🏁
Choosing the right motorcycle loan company can mean the difference between an affordable ride and a financial burden.
By evaluating APRs, loan terms, and motorcycle type, riders can lock in financing that matches their lifestyle.
Whether it’s a first bike or a high-end touring model, careful planning ensures your motorcycle ownership remains a source of freedom—not stress
FAQ ❓
- What are the average loan terms for motorcycle financing?
- Most loans range from 24 to 72 months, though some credit unions extend to 84 months for touring bikes.
- Do lenders finance older or custom motorcycles?
- Yes, but mainly credit unions and select online lenders, while big banks often restrict financing to newer models.
- Can I refinance a motorcycle loan later?
- Yes, many lenders allow refinancing, which can lower your interest rate if market rates drop.
- Do motorcycle loan companies require full insurance coverage?
- Yes, lenders typically require full coverage for financed motorcycles to protect their investment.
- Which lenders are best for low-credit borrowers?
- Options like Ally Financial or certain credit unions may approve subprime borrowers, though with higher APRs.
