Selling a motorcycle, ATV, UTV, or other powersport vehicle involves more than agreeing on a price and handing over the keys. While many sellers focus on taking great photos, writing an honest listing, and negotiating with buyers, one document often gets overlooked until the very end: the bill of sale.

It may seem like a simple piece of paper, but a properly completed bill of sale protects both the buyer and seller. It creates a written record of the transaction, documents exactly what changed hands, and can help prevent future disputes if questions arise about ownership, payment, or liability.

The good news is that creating one isn’t complicated. However, there are a few details you should never leave out, including one sentence that many private sellers forget to include.

Whether you’re selling a motorcycle, ATV, side-by-side, dirt bike, or another powersport vehicle, here’s what every bill of sale should contain before either party signs.

Why a Bill of Sale Matters

A bill of sale isn’t always legally required in every state, but it’s almost always a smart idea.

Think of it as the official receipt for the transaction. Once money changes hands, both parties should have documentation showing exactly what was sold, when it was sold, and under what conditions.

A complete bill of sale can help:

• Document the purchase price
• Confirm ownership changed hands
• Support title transfer paperwork
• Protect both buyer and seller if disagreements arise
• Provide documentation for registration or tax purposes

Even if your state doesn’t require one, having a signed copy gives everyone peace of mind.

The Essential Information Every Bill of Sale Should Include

A good bill of sale doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does need to be thorough. Missing details can create unnecessary headaches later.

Seller Information

Start by identifying yourself clearly.

Include:

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

This establishes exactly who sold the vehicle.

Buyer Information

The buyer’s information should be just as complete.

Include:

• Full legal name
• Address
• Phone number

Accurate contact information becomes important if paperwork questions arise after the sale.

Vehicle Description

This is one of the most important sections.

Record as much identifying information as possible, including:

• Year
• Make
• Model
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Current odometer mileage (for motorcycles)
• Engine or hour meter reading (for ATVs and UTVs, if applicable)
• Color
• License plate number (if applicable)

The more specific the description, the less room there is for confusion.

Sale Price

• Clearly write the agreed purchase price.
• Don’t estimate or round numbers.
• The document should match exactly what both parties agreed upon.
• If a deposit was previously paid, note that as well.

Date of Sale

Include the exact date (and if possible, the time) the transaction took place.

This becomes particularly important if questions arise regarding registration, insurance, or liability after the sale.

The #1 Line Most Sellers Forget

Many private sellers assume the bill of sale only needs names and a purchase price.

In reality, one simple sentence can provide significant protection:

“The vehicle is sold AS IS, with no warranties expressed or implied.”

This short statement makes it clear that the buyer accepts the vehicle in its current condition.

Without it, buyers may later argue that they expected repairs, guarantees, or promises that were never actually made.

An “as-is” clause helps establish that the buyer had the opportunity to inspect the vehicle before purchasing it and accepted its condition at the time of sale.

While laws vary by state, including this statement is considered a best practice for nearly every private sale.

Additional Details Worth Including

Depending on the transaction, you may want to include a few extra notes that provide additional clarity.

These aren’t always required, but they can help eliminate misunderstandings.

Payment Method

Record how payment was received.

Examples include:

• Cash
• Cashier’s check
• Bank wire
• Certified funds

If payment was made in installments, document the agreed schedule and any remaining balance.

Included Accessories

If you’re selling additional equipment with the vehicle, list everything specifically.

Examples might include:

• Extra key
• Owner’s manual
• Spare tires
• Winch
• Storage bags
• Helmet (if included)
• Riding gear
• GPS unit
• Aftermarket accessories

Listing these items helps avoid future disagreements over what was part of the sale.

Existing Damage or Known Issues

Honesty protects everyone. If the vehicle has cosmetic damage, mechanical issues, or modifications, note them briefly.

Documenting known issues reinforces transparency and reduces the likelihood of disputes after the transaction.

Both Parties Should Sign

Once everything has been reviewed, both buyer and seller should sign the bill of sale.

Whenever possible:

• Print two copies.
• Both parties sign both copies.
• Each person keeps one original.

Some states may also require notarization, so it’s worth checking your local DMV requirements before completing the transaction.

Common Mistakes Sellers Make

A bill of sale is only useful if it’s complete and accurate.

Here are several mistakes to avoid:

Leaving Blank Spaces

Empty fields can be altered later. If something doesn’t apply, write “N/A” instead of leaving it blank.

Using Nicknames

Always use full legal names exactly as they appear on government-issued identification.

Forgetting the VIN

The VIN is the primary identifier for the vehicle. Double-check every character before signing.

Recording the Wrong Mileage

Whether you’re documenting motorcycle mileage or ATV/UTV engine hours, accuracy matters. Never guess.

Waiting Until the Last Minute

Many sellers try filling out paperwork while the buyer is already loading the vehicle Preparing the document beforehand helps prevent mistakes and keeps the transaction organized.

Keep Copies for Your Records

Even after the sale is complete, don’t throw away your paperwork.

Store copies of:

• The signed bill of sale
• Title transfer documentation
• Release of liability (if required by your state)
• Payment confirmation
• Any communication regarding the sale

Having organized records can save considerable time if questions arise months later.

A Bill of Sale Is Just One Step

A bill of sale is important, but it isn’t the only paperwork you’ll need to complete.

Depending on your state, you may also need to:

• Sign over the title
• Submit a release of liability
• Remove license plates
• Notify your insurance company
• Cancel registration, if required

Taking care of these final steps ensures the sale is fully complete and helps protect you from future liability.

Final Thoughts

A well-written bill of sale may only take a few minutes to prepare, but it can provide lasting protection for both the buyer and seller. It documents exactly what was sold, when ownership changed hands, and the terms both parties agreed to.

Most importantly, don’t forget the simple “sold as-is” statement. That single line can help prevent misunderstandings and clearly establish that the buyer accepted the powersport vehicle in its current condition.

When paired with accurate title paperwork and a clear transfer of ownership, a complete bill of sale is one of the best tips for selling any motorcycle, ATV, or UTV. Spending a little extra time on the paperwork helps ensure a smoother motorcycle resale, allowing both buyer and seller to move forward with confidence.