car shopping by bike

[tulip]

Sounds like the first dealer is really marking that car up. Offer him $4k less and then walk out when he says no. Tell him there are plenty more for less--there are. Toyotas are great cars, but they do tend to be overpriced used. What's a new Yaris going for?

[redrhodie]

They start at $14,115 for the 2012, which have not arrived yet because of the Japanese earthquake. Knowing that I can get what I want for at least $4000 less than that dealer is asking is good, especially since I have some time.

[Catrin]

Have you considered the Kia Soul at all? Good mileage, and I can fit my bikes in the back without taking the wheel off. That being said I do have a hitch mounted rack I prefer, but it is quite easy and there is tons of space. I am always amazed how roomy it is considering it doesn't look very big in a parking spot.

[Velocivixen]

I presume you've looked at Kelly Bluebook to see how much this model sells for? I'd offer them cash for 4,000 less and be prepared to walk away if they don't jump.

[redrhodie]

Sounds like the first dealer is really marking that car up. Offer him $4k less and then walk out when he says no. Tell him there are plenty more for less--there are. Toyotas are great cars, but they do tend to be overpriced used. What's a new Yaris going for?

Actually, I now think the dealership who advertised the $4000 lower price are sleaze bags, according to the reviews I just read. They are out of the running. I'm not going there. They bait and switch, and charge thousands more than their advertised prices. Lots of 1 * reviews. Too risky for me.

The price on the one that's $4000 more is still a little lower than the KBB, so maybe that's a fair price. Ugh. I am very tired and hating car shopping. Spent the whole day helping my brother buy a car (at least we did it). We didn't manage to get anything off. I feel very depleted, and disappointed that we didn't get a better deal, and like a sucker for paying full price. But, he's happy and relieved to be in a much better car, so I'm really happy for him.

Bike shopping is so much more fun.

[Catrin]

It sounds like you are making all the right decisions, and you are correct, bike shopping is a LOT more fun

When I purchased my Galant a few years back (with 25,000 miles), I was able to get an extended warranty on it to 100k miles and this was bumper to bumper. The peace of mind was well worth it - and I would consider a certified used car in the same light. I wonder if there would be another Honda or Toyota dealer in your area who could/would provide a similar warranty for you? Mitsubishi might have a different policy on this, but it might be worth looking into.

[Biciclista]

we finally got around to trying to put two roadbikes in the back of my honda fit. WOW
we took the front wheels up and angled each back wheel to the door. then we bungied them in tightly and it's all in. Photos to follow (it's too dark now)

[malkin]

I like my Yaris and it always amazes me how much stuff will fit in it.

Lots of road noise on the freeway, though.

[Koronin]

malkin, I know what you mean about stuff fitting in a small car. We are amazed at how much we can stuff into the Versa we just recently bought. However, it will never be used for any long trips. It gets better gas mileage than the other vehicles, but it is not where near as comfortable for a longer drive. We bought it for functionality for me as a work car, not for trips. The 4X4 Ranger gets to go to Bristol (must have 4X4 for parking) and we take it for trips to the beach. The Monte Carlo is for all other vacations.

[redrhodie]

Finally picking up a Yaris to test drive on Monday!

The Versa is also on my short list, and if the Yaris doesn't work out, that will be the next test.

So sick of thinking about cars.

[Catrin]

Finally picking up a Yaris to test drive on Monday!

The Versa is also on my short list, and if the Yaris doesn't work out, that will be the next test.

So sick of thinking about cars.

Good luck on your search, and hope the Yaris works out for you!

[Biciclista]

as promised



and a great ride was had by all!

[Marquise]

as promised



and a great ride was had by all!

What sizes are your bikes? I'm thinking about a Fit and know my bike won't be a problem but my husband's tall so his frame is big. We put both bikes in his car all the time but being able to fit both in a smaller car would be nice.

[Biciclista]

my husband's bike is probably about a 55. Neither of us are tall. YOur DH might have trouble if his saddle is on LONG saddlepost; but maybe you could put his bike in first.

[Marquise]

my husband's bike is probably about a 55. Neither of us are tall. YOur DH might have trouble if his saddle is on LONG saddlepost; but maybe you could put his bike in first.

Thanks. I think my husband's is a 60. I told him when the time comes we'll take both bikes to the dealer and see if they fit.