As they say, "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder," or "All that glitters, may not be gold." However, the joy of finding something vintage for most people can often be nothing short of intoxicating.
The rules of being at any swap meet are pretty simple, and if you have a keen enough eye, you can walk away with some interesting items.
Here are a Few Simple Rules to Follow:
1. Line Your Pockets with Gold
Bring enough cash. There are a lot of horror stories about people finding something of extraordinary vintage value, only to realize their pockets are empty when it comes time to make an offer.
2. Be an Eagle-Eye
Buyer Beware! You should make a point of thoroughly inspecting anything before you put your money down on the table. It's not hard to get caught up in the moment and try to outbid the person standing next to you.
3. Keep Your Cards on the Table
Keep your poker face on, even if you've never played the game. There are a lot of sharks at a swap meat; both buyers and sellers. Be prepared to "haggle" a few items; it just goes with the territory.
4. Make a List
Make a list of things you want to find, and stick to it. It's easy to get thrown off track every time you see something that looks interesting. Being focused also has a tendency to attract the things to you that you're there to find.
5. Back the Truck In
Bring a truck. If you think you're going to be able to find your heart's desire, and then fit it into the trunk of your car; well, think again! Going to a motorcycle swap meet means being prepared.
6. Dress for Comfort
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. You may have to walk for several hours through unending rolls of motorcycle stuff before you find the relic that catches your eye.
7. Know When to Fold
Maybe the most important thing to remember is that at some point you have to know when to fold. There's a tremendous amount of satisfaction in knowing you "got" exactly what you came for. This will keep you pumped and anticipating the next swap meet adventure.
You can find some interesting things of value at a motorcycle-parts swap meet. However, nothing is as valuable as your future. Why not request our WyoTech DVD, and find out where training in WyoTec's Motorcycle Technology Program can take you.
Co-host of Spike TV's "Xtreme 4X4"
"At WyoTech, I received the skill set necessary to take me as far as my imagination will lead me."
Jessi Combs' motto, "It's not how big you are in the fight; it's how big the fight is in you," has taken her a long way...