The points to be considered for buying a used Motorcycle
Posted on Jan 25th 2015
Are you looking forward to buy a used motorcycle? Motorshifi.com is coming up with some useful aids to suit your purpose. There are plenty of used bikes in the marketplace, and there’s no reason to commit to a motorcycle that isn’t just right for you.
Choose between a private seller and a dealer: If you are keen to purchase from a private party, insist that you be able to take the bike to a reputable dealership to be assessed and inspected. It may cost you a few more dollars but will save you from future hassles.
In addition, dealerships can be used as sources providing generic information and you can easily do an ownership history search to make sure the bike in question wasn't stolen and hasn't been listed as "written off" by an insurance company. Choosing where you buy your used motorcycle will largely depend on your budget, as dealerships usually charge a premium over private parties.. Buying from a private party can be a more personal experience-- you’re likely to hear nostalgic stories about the motorcycle in question. Private owners are usually also more flexible about price.
Examine thoroughly the bike yourself: You need to check the bike thoroughly. Following are some questions that you need to consider.
• OVERALL APPEARANCE: Is the bike clean and straight?
• HAS IT BEEN CRASHED?
Check the condition of the drive chain and sprocket. The tires should have good tread all the way across the surface with no signs of uneven wear or damage. Sit on the bike. Look at the condition of the brake and clutch levers, bar-end weights, straightness of the bars and instrument cluster. These could be signs of an accident or drop.
Others could be scratched engine cases, foot pegs or exhaust pipes. Hold the handbrake and bounce the front suspension. It should feel even and firm. Get off the bike and check the fork tubes for signs of rust, pitting and oil. If possible, check the visible frame; remove the seat to see underneath it also. There should be no dents, kinks or visible damage to the frame. While the seat is off and you can access the battery, clip the multi-meter across the battery terminals and check the voltage. It should read no less than 12 volts. Start the engine. The meter should read no more than 14 volts or so while running.. Check the lights and indicators at this stage also. Pull a fuse or two out and check for corrosion. Do this with the engine off of course. Also, check the battery terminals and overall appearance of the battery. Replace the seat. Open the fuel tank and check for obvious signs of rust or corrosion using your flashlight. Look at the brake fluid level. This is usually on top of handlebars, in an enclosure with a clear window. With the engine running, pull hard on the front brakes level and release while watching the fluid level. It should fall and rise. It should rise quickly once the brake is released.
Take a test drive: After the inspection go out for a test drive. This will help you to check the actual condition of the bike. Inspect the bike again after the ride, looking for any leaks or drips. Check the oil, through either the sight glass or; when the engine cools, the dipstick if so equipped. Most semi or full synthetic oils will darken after only a few miles. That is completely normal.
Request a service history: Do ask for service records if it is available. Ask for an owner's manual and factory toolkit if available.
Is There Room for Negotiation? Always be realistic when negotiating on the final price of the bike. For a private seller, this may be his and insulting him now will ensure that you will not get a fair price. If at a dealership, realize that the salesperson may have targets to meet and a boss looking over his shoulder. Do some research online; use the retail pricing guides if available, or read the bike classifieds to get a fair market value of the bike. Then, set your buy price accordingly.
Mileage: Mileage is another consideration, and bikes with extremely low mileage can be just as suspicious as higher mileage examples, since sitting for long periods without proper storage techniques can cause problems down the line.
Once you’re satisfied with all the above tips and suggestions and the price really suits you rush for the deal.