Can I Get Dirt Bike Finance With Bad Credit?
A less-than-perfect credit history does not always rule out finance, but it does change your options. Here is how it generally works, and how to approach it sensibly.
What lenders look at
- Your credit history and any defaults or missed payments
- Your income, employment and expenses
- Your deposit, and how much you want to borrow
- The bike itself, since it is the security for the loan
Credit history is not the whole picture
Different lenders have different appetites. Some focus on the credit score and others on affordability. A bigger deposit, a cheaper bike or a guarantor can all change the decision. We cannot promise approval, because that is always up to the lender.
What can help
- Getting a free copy of your credit report and fixing anything that is wrong
- Saving a larger deposit
- Choosing a bike that fits comfortably inside your budget
- Having proof of stable income and address
Be careful with high-cost lenders
If the rates and fees look very high, think twice. Read the full terms, the total cost of the loan and what happens if you miss a payment. The repayment should fit your budget with room to spare. Free, independent budgeting help is available in NZ if you need it.
Other ways to buy
- Save up and buy a cheaper bike outright. See how much a used dirt bike costs
- Sell your current bike and use that as a deposit. See Sell Us Your Bike
- Consider the total cost of owning a dirt bike, not just the price
How finance at ShowShed works
Our finance guide explains the process, and you can apply on our finance and insurance page. Approval and rates are decided by the lender.
Do not forget the gear
Factor in a helmet, boots and goggles in your budget. A kit from GearShed can be cheaper than buying separately, see are gear kits worth it.
Questions to ask any lender
- What is the interest rate, and is it fixed?
- What fees apply, upfront and ongoing?
- What is the total I will repay?
- What happens if I pay early or miss a payment?
If anything is unclear, ask for it in writing before you sign.
Browse our dirt bikes in stock to see what is in your range.
ShowShed is a Hamilton dirt bike and quad dealer, back to the home page or browse every bike in stock. Gear for the ride is at our sister store GearShed.
Frequently asked questions
Will a default stop me getting finance?
It can make it harder, but each lender decides differently. A deposit and stable income help.
Does applying for finance affect my credit score?
Applications can leave a record on your file, so it is best to apply thoughtfully rather than to many lenders at once.
Can ShowShed guarantee approval?
No. Approval is decided by the lender.