Best advice I can offer is never stop learning, and always be open to new things. This industry changes almost daily, so you've got to keep up with it all. Part of the reason it's so fun!!

Hey Dave. No, you don't need to have a huge old site to get approved into most programs. Are you trying to join programs via a network? That could be your best opportunity, as most networks have a verification process that makes merchants much more comfortable accepting new affiliates. Are the programs you are applying to all in the motorcycle niche? Are they all in-house programs?

Yes, in-house is what I am trying to achieve. I have joined eBay and Amazon. but I am unsuccessful in joining any in my niche.
For example:
Thank you for applying. We have decided not to accept your application at this time. The website you applied with was denied due to being new and therefore having limited traffic.

We typically only accept websites which rank well with third party traffic tools (3 million or less on Alexa.com), for instance. You are welcome to apply again once you have had a chance to establish traffic by frequently adding unique content, garnering backlinks from other established websites and increasing any social presence associated with your website. This will give you a much better start if accepted!

Another example:
Apologies for not coming back to you. I’ve looked into it and the account hasn’t been agreed as yet. I’m afraid that we’re no longer accepting overseas affiliates, simply due to complications arising from making payment to overseas accounts. We are now only able to pay into UK bank accounts I’m afraid.

Jeannine, should it be this difficult?

It can be really hard working with in-house programs. Each one has their own rules and requirements and limitations (like the UK bank accounts thing). Are you sure there aren't networks that have at least some of the products you want to promote? It would be much, much easier. I used to work in the motorcycle industry. What kind of products are you looking to promote?

The problem I have with networks is that you have to join to find out that they have nothing about motorcycles. For example Commission Factory. There is not a single merchant related to my niche. Isn't it a pity they refuse to show you the niches they have until after you join?
I'll just have to keep joining until I eventually discover a affiliate partner that actually has motorcycles.

The networks that did have motorcycles didn't accept my application as I mentioned.

It is frustrating because you have to provide them so much personal information and website information and banking information only to find they don't get back to you or don't have anything in your niche.

Cheers Dave

I'm going to switch this conversation to a private message. I found 288 merchants on various networks that all have something related to motorcycles. Or do you only want the actual motorcycles rather than parts & accessories?

No parts and accessories is excellent. Thank you. Great sounds like you have been busy to help me. Awesome.