On the surface purchasing a cheap second hand scooter seems the ideal choice. No worries about having to pay a weekly fee and you own it! However, when you really sit down and think about it you’ll find that it might not be the best choice if you’re only going to be in the city for a semester, 6 months contract or trial period.
Renting can seem like the less romantic choice but it can be a better option depending on how long you require the bike.
Cost of Ownership
You might be tempted by the price of a second hand 110cc scooter. However, you will have to pay to register, insure, and service your scooter. You also have to factor in fixing issues such as poor brakes (due to the cheap price) and somewhere to store it. When you leave Sydney you’ll need to sell it back which can be difficult due to it having a few new scratches.
If you’re going to stay in Sydney for many years and enjoy fiddling around with things then purchasing isn’t a bad idea. However if you need it for only 3 months it can change the overall cost.
By renting you’ll avoid having to deal with all the hassle. You’ll pay a weekly rate to use the bike. It’s worth knowing what is included in the weekly rate.
What Is Usually Included When Renting in Sydney
A typical Honda Dio 110cc scooter can be hired from $59 per week. You’ll usually have a minimum hire period of 4 weeks and a $200 refundable bond to pay up front with your first week’s hire. Some companies include comprehensive insurance, regular servicing, breakdown cover, helmet, unlimited km and delivery box. Some companies will deliver to certain areas in Greater Sydney.
This can be quite a lot more than you’d pay if you purchased privately. However it can depend on the insurance and couple of repairs you pay. Some companies will have restrictions to their rentals. Make sure you know what the excess is, what is excluded and if food deliveries are allowed. Usually you will have to pay for the fuel. You will also have to make sure the bike is kept in decent condition. If you have an accident or lose it you won’t be happy with the next conversation.
Always make sure you know what is included by getting it in writing. Don’t fall for the “everything is covered” phrase.
For a clear picture of a weekly hire built around a Honda Dio, look at Best Rental Scooter in Rydalmere. Their scooter rental services also cover delivery, servicing, roadside assistance and help with the licence process. This could be useful if you’re new to riding in NSW.
Duration of Hire
If you’re only needing a scooter for a month or two it’s unlikely you’ll save any money by purchasing as you’ll have to sell it again. If you’re staying for a year or longer then it’s worth working out the numbers. Factor in registration, insurance, tyres, service, locks and a realistic amount you’ll get for it.
Some people will rent a scooter whilst they get to know the city and whilst they’re waiting for a good second hand bike. This can be a good idea as long as you’re not ending up paying for both hire and purchase in the same month due to feeling rushed.
Also make sure you know where you’re going to park it. If you knock it over in a small car park in your apartment you’ll still have issues. Make sure you have a cheap chain and take care with it.
Licence & Insurance
No matter which option you choose you have to have a licence to ride in NSW. An overseas car licence won’t be accepted. You may not get the same insurance coverage as you would if you purchased your own scooter. If you purchase privately make sure you have the right insurance to cover how you’ll use it. If you’re planning on using it for deliveries make sure it covers that.
I wouldn’t purchase a scooter from a listing at night without knowing what condition it’s in, what its history is and what my insurance covers. I also wouldn’t sign a rental agreement over the phone without reading through it.
Overall if you’re only staying for a short period of time it’s best to rent. This way you can save the extra cash for your bond and fuel. If you’re staying for a long time it’s still best to rent if you’re new to the roads in Sydney. Once you know you’ll actually be using it then purchase. You want reliable transport, not an asset that will be sat under a tarp in someone’s driveway when your visa runs out.
No matter what you choose make sure you keep your receipts and take photos of the bike when you get it. This has saved people in the past when returning a rental or arguing with a private seller over a scratch.
