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[Snafuperman]

In particular I'm thinking about ordering a new Zero SR/S from the local dealer.  Is it customary to pay the entire amount ($20K+) up front before the bike is ordered?  I've never ordered a new vehicle -- either bought what was on the showroom floor or mostly bought used.  I'd be worried that the manufacturer (Zero) or the local dealer would go under before I got my bike and then I'm sure I would never get my payment back.  Am I worried about nothing?

[princec]

You are right to be worried. This is what deposits are for.
Also, ensure you pay for anything at all using a credit card, which will give you full protection in the event of scandal.

Cas

[Richard230]

I have bought three Zeros from two different dealers over the past 9 years. Each one was special ordered from the factory by paying a $500 deposit using a credit card. I paid the remaining balance in cash after the bike was delivered to my dealer and at the time that I completed the purchase paperwork and vehicle registration forms and then took ownership of the bike.

[Snafuperman]

Thank you both.  $500 deposit by credit card sounds like the smartest way to go.

[Crissa]

If they give you the VIN and paperwork, as in, only delivery remains to happen, I can see that, but even then there's usually some delay.

-Crissa

[DonTom]

In particular I'm thinking about ordering a new Zero SR/S from the local dealer.  Is it customary to pay the entire amount ($20K+) up front before the bike is ordered?  I've never ordered a new vehicle -- either bought what was on the showroom floor or mostly bought used.  I'd be worried that the manufacturer (Zero) or the local dealer would go under before I got my bike and then I'm sure I would never get my payment back.  Am I worried about nothing?

No, dealers prefer you NOT to pay cash. They make money on the financing as well as the bike. They will only want a deposit, which shows you're serious. It should be the same otherwise as buying the bike in the shop.

-Don-  Auburn, CA

[valnar]

In particular I'm thinking about ordering a new Zero SR/S from the local dealer.  Is it customary to pay the entire amount ($20K+) up front before the bike is ordered?

Are they ASKING you to do that?  That would give me pause.

[Snafuperman]

Are they ASKING you to do that?  That would give me pause.

No, they aren't.  Not yet.  I just wanted to be prepared when I go in there.

[reini]

Is it customary to pay the entire amount ($20K+) up front before the bike is ordered? 

My dealer asked me for 30% upfront after placing the order. I was ok with that, given that the bike was BTO and a small dealer with good reputation.

[Nukie]

My dealer requires $500 down to place the order.

[SonOfAnakin]

I just ordered a Zero SR with a $2k deposit on a credit card. Not sure how they settled in $2k. Probably dealer preference??

[nevetsyad]

Just put 3K down on an Energica. $500 would have been nice instead. hah

[DonTom]

Just put 3K down on an Energica. $500 would have been nice instead. hah

Which model are you getting?

-Don-  Auburn, CA

[nevetsyad]

Ribelle of course. Picking up mid next month.

[DonTom]

Ribelle of course. Picking up mid next month.

I am sure you will love it!

Have you ever ridden one as a test ride or anything?

I bet that wait is frustrating!


-Don- Auburn, CA