Test rode mine no problem, 1 mile was showing. The tires had never been on road pavement. I rode it about 3. Not sure I'd buy one without a test ride. Ask them if it's policy, or something to do with laws.
Test drive/ride laws very state to state. Most states you as the rider are legally responsible for damaging the bike and covering repair of damage or purchasing the bike. You might live in a state which doesn't allow this and the dealer is responsible for insuring the bike for test riding.
It might also be due to sportbikes, it might also be due to the customer (no offense), they may profile someone as a joy rider, show roomer, or generally not having the ability or genuine desire to actually purchase the bike. I know one thing, I wouldn't let someone walk up to one and test ride a brand new out of the crate bike. Used bikes might be a little different.
* Last updated by: VicThing on 10/30/2014 @ 6:26 PM *