Purchasing a used motorcycle can be very rewarding but it can also be a daunting task. This used motorcycle buyer’s guide highlights 10 things to look for when purchasing a used motorcycle.
1. Has It Been Crashed?
One of the most important things to check first—and probably the most obvious—is to check if the motorcycle has been down or in an accident. Any sign of road rash or deep scratches on the fairings is a pretty good sign that the bike has been down. Be sure to ask for details.
Make sure that the brake and clutch levers are not bent as crashes can damage them. More severe crashes can also cause the forks to twist which affects handling. If you are able to test ride the bike, then make sure that the motorcycle is riding straight and is not swaying.
2. Brakes
Brakes are extremely vital to your safety as they help bring your bike to a stop. To test the front brakes, put the bike in neutral and roll it forward while gently engaging the brake lever. The brakes should engage smoothly. If you pull the lever and there is no resistance, then more then likely the calipers need work or the brake system needs new fluid. Do the same also for the rear brakes and make sure the brakes are engaging.
Check that there is at least 1/8” of brake pad material remaining. Warped rotors will cause the front end of the bike to vibrate. Brake fluid should be a light amber and needs replacing if it is a darker color. This is a good indication that the motorcycle has not had proper maintenance.
3. Tires
Tires are a pretty indication of how the motorcycle was ridden. Squaring of the rear tire usually means that the bike has mostly been on straight roads such as a highway. If the edges are roughed up, then it’s a possibility that the bike has been through a canyon.
4. Battery/Electrical
When buying a used motorcycle, you need to keep in mind that often times motorcycles are sitting out in a warehouse so the battery may not be fully charged. If you can, make sure that the battery is holding its charge and that the voltage is around 12-14v. Also, make sure that the kill switch is working by starting the engine and switching the kill switch to its off position.
5. Chain & Sprockets
Check the chain and sprocket for any rusting. Chains are supposed to be lubed about every 200-300 miles or about every two tank refills. Check the slack of the chain by pulling on it. It should be no more then two inches both ways. Having a chain snap on you on the road can be extremely dangerous.
6. Engine Fluids
Make sure to ask the owner when the oil was last changed. Oil should be changed every 3,000-4,000 miles. If the oil is black, then it’s time for a new oil change. If the oil is a dark honey color, then the oil was changed recently.
Check that the coolant levels are between the low and high and that the color is a neon green. If it is a murky green-brown, then the coolant needs to be changed.
7. Suspension
Ask the owner when the last time the fork seals have been changed and when the suspension oils have been replaced. Generally, they should be replaced every year or two. To test the front forks, hold the brakes and push down hard on the bars. The bike should spring back up but with little resistance. You will need to replace the rear shock if there is no resistance.
8. Clutch/Gears
Check the clutch by holding it down and putting the bike in first gear. It should feel smooth as you push the bike forward. Test the friction zone by slowly releasing the clutch. Clutch engagement should be fairly smooth.
9. Know what the bike is worth! Check KKB for more details
Make sure you know what your bike is worth before committing to a price. The last thing you want is overpaying for a used motorcycle.
10. Kickstand, horn, turn signals, headlights, etc.
Last but not least, check the small things on the motorcycle. Make sure the kickstand is pretty sturdy and is not shaky. Check that the horn, turn signals, and the headlights are also in working condition.
Read the fine print before signing anything! That low introductory interest rate might seem welcoming at first, but can be extremely frustrating to learn that the interest rate is only for a couple of months.
If everything is satisfactory and you are ready to make the purchase, check that the VIN on the motorcycle matches on the title and that there are no liens. Have a mechanic take a look at the used motorcycle after the purchase to double check that everything is in working order.
Happy riding!
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