The small marketplace known as Mahindra Bazar, located just 10 kilometers from Rajshahi city in Puthia Upazila, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Once filled with various product shops, the market is now dominated by second-hand motorcycle showrooms, which are opening up as fast as the old businesses close down.
This bustling hub has quickly become a major regional center for pre-owned motorcycles, now hosting at least 50 showrooms.
A Regional Motorcycle Mecca
Mahindra Market’s fame has spread far and wide. People travel from all over Rajshahi city, the surrounding sub-districts, and even neighboring districts like Naogaon, Natore, and Bogura to buy and sell motorcycles. The high concentration of showrooms fuels intense competition among the sellers, which ultimately benefits buyers by keeping prices comparatively low.
On a recent Monday morning, the market was buzzing with activity. Customers were seen haggling over prices, while employees meticulously cleaned the used bikes until they looked brand new. The showrooms feature a wide variety of motorcycles, from classic models like the 1980s Honda CG-125, Honda C-90, Suzuki A-80, and Yamaha AX-100 to the latest popular models.
How the Market Grew
The second-hand motorcycle business here began about 20 years ago with a single showroom, Faisal Enterprise, owned by Faisal Ahmed. Polan, Arif, and Jahangir soon followed. Seeing the excellent sales, at least 45 more showrooms have opened in just the last four years.
Rofiqul Islam, owner of Oranno-Opurbo Enterprise, explained the success: “This place has become famous for second-hand bikes. With 50-52 showrooms, a customer never leaves empty-handed. They can shop around and find a bike that matches their price and requirement. The competition ensures the prices are fair—neither too low nor too high—which keeps both buyers and sellers happy.” Rofiqul noted that his showroom used to be a fish feed shop, illustrating how quickly previous businesses are converting.
The market facilitates an average of at least 50 motorcycle transactions daily. Furthermore, the unique policy allows customers to trade in a bike they previously purchased for a different model.
Confidence for Buyers and Sellers
Shahad Ali, an employee at Mesars Abtar Enterprise, confirmed the market’s wide reach. “People from all over come here to sell their motorcycles, and just as many come to buy. With so many showrooms, a seller is guaranteed to find a deal that works for them,” he said. He shared an example: “Sometimes, a bike is only 15 days old. The owner didn’t like it and decided to sell. We assess the vehicle’s condition and set a fair price, ensuring no one is cheated.”
Faruk Hossain, a buyer from Bagmara, Rajshahi, praised the selection: “You can find excellent bikes here—practically any model you’re looking for. It’s great to be able to shop around and negotiate prices before making a purchase.”
Shahadat Hossain, who came from Nawhata, Rajshahi, to sell his bike, echoed the sentiment of getting the best deal: “I needed money suddenly, so I came to sell my bike. I’ve gotten quotes from a few showrooms and I’ll check a few more. I’ll sell it where I get the highest price.”
No Risk, All Paperwork
Mohammad Shahin, owner of Mohammad Motors, gave up his career as a truck driver due to accident risk to open a showroom three months ago. He confirmed the business is doing very well.
Crucially, Shahin stressed that buying a motorcycle from Mahindra Market is safe because stolen bikes are never purchased.
“The first thing we do when buying a bike is check the paperwork,” Shahin stated. “We have a connection with BRTA (Bangladesh Road Transport Authority). We confirm the owner’s name and check if there are any issues by searching the vehicle number online. We only buy if everything is clear. No showroom here buys a bike without proper documentation; those vehicles are turned away.”
Tips for Second-Hand Buyers
Shahin also offered valuable advice for prospective buyers:
• Check the Fuel Tank: Almost all motorcycles are prone to rust in the fuel tank, so be sure to check this beforehand.
• Don’t Trust the Odometer: The mileage on the meter can be easily changed.
• Focus on the Fundamentals: Judge the motorcycle’s value based on its year, model, and the condition of the engine.