What Checks Should I Make When Buying A Used Motorbike?
You should checks any second hand bike thoroughly before handing over your hard earned cash. Take someone along with when inspecting a bike, preferably someone who knows bikes.
Check all over for rust, cracks and evidence of repair work.
Check all over for any evidence of accident damage scratches and dents.
Turn on the ignition to check that the engine starts properly and doesn't smoke, that the clutch doesn't slip, and that there are no leaks under the bike.
Test drive if you can. The seller should let you if you leave some security or if your friend stays behind. Check the gears, suspension, breaks, exhaust and all the electrics are working satisfactorily.
Check the chain is in good condition and the rear sprocket isn't damages.
Check the mileage is consistent with the bike's age and condition.
Check the motorbike's logbook to verify matching frame and engine numbers. If they do not match then the bike has been rebuilt after an accident or stolen.
If you have any doubts about the bike, the price or even the seller just walk away. The second hand market is plentiful.
If your choice of second hand bike is expensive you may wish to consider paying a specialist garage to give it a once over.
All makes and models of bikes have their quirks. Some models have specific problems that you should be aware of if you are considering specific types of bike. These include slipping gears or electrical problems. Read online review websites, check out BikePoint or MotorPoint reviews for tips on issues associated with certain models. Dealers, garage specialists and friends can all offer advice on this as well. Old bike magazines and reviews online can equally help. Learn as much as you can about the models you are interested in as this will save you money when making a purchase. Knowledge is power so knowing as much about a bike before you meet the seller can help you asertain whether you're getting a good deal and will helpyou set up for a good haggle.
Check all over for rust, cracks and evidence of repair work.
Check all over for any evidence of accident damage scratches and dents.
Turn on the ignition to check that the engine starts properly and doesn't smoke, that the clutch doesn't slip, and that there are no leaks under the bike.
Test drive if you can. The seller should let you if you leave some security or if your friend stays behind. Check the gears, suspension, breaks, exhaust and all the electrics are working satisfactorily.
Check the chain is in good condition and the rear sprocket isn't damages.
Check the mileage is consistent with the bike's age and condition.
Check the motorbike's logbook to verify matching frame and engine numbers. If they do not match then the bike has been rebuilt after an accident or stolen.
If you have any doubts about the bike, the price or even the seller just walk away. The second hand market is plentiful.
If your choice of second hand bike is expensive you may wish to consider paying a specialist garage to give it a once over.
All makes and models of bikes have their quirks. Some models have specific problems that you should be aware of if you are considering specific types of bike. These include slipping gears or electrical problems. Read online review websites, check out BikePoint or MotorPoint reviews for tips on issues associated with certain models. Dealers, garage specialists and friends can all offer advice on this as well. Old bike magazines and reviews online can equally help. Learn as much as you can about the models you are interested in as this will save you money when making a purchase. Knowledge is power so knowing as much about a bike before you meet the seller can help you asertain whether you're getting a good deal and will helpyou set up for a good haggle.
