The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Used Motorcycle

If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, you know that classic, rugged feel of being on the road with nothing but the open sky. However, it’s hard to find this feeling without dropping some serious cash on a brand-new ride. But should you wait to save enough for a new bike or get a pre-approved or used motorcycle at an affordable cost?

An excellent online search and a few referrals from friends can help you identify a trusted motorcycle dealer near you. But before you make payments for your dream bike, here’s a used motorcycle guide to help you with the buying process:

 

Research First and Know What You’re Buying

The first step to purchasing a used motorcycle that fits your riding style and budget is researching and setting goals. You can find out everything about a bike before you set foot in the dealership by reviewing used motorcycles online.

Look up reviews on the model of interest, but also on available brands and models. This way, you’ll know what else is out there, so you aren’t fixated on just one brand or design.

 

Price and value

Motorcycles are valued according to the model price and their unique components. When determining a used motorbike value, check on its engine size, condition, frame, amount of rust or damage, mileage, and overall appearance.

It’s important to consider how much money remains after the purchase. You don’t want it to affect other choices down the line if necessary.

Is the price too good to be true? Are any parts or accessories included with the sale? Many buyers overlook the value of extras until they need them, and those bonuses can be a great asset down the line.

 

Title, Registration, and State Inspection

When buying a used motorcycle from a dealer or private seller, ensure it has a clean title history. It shouldn’t have liens, and all registration fees should be current.

State inspections should occur automatically before registering the motorcycle to ensure there aren’t any defects. Check to see if they’re included in the purchase price before buying.

Always check with your local state government on their regulations for buying and selling motorcycles. This way, all ownership disputes will be handled by the appropriate party.

 

Motorbike History Report

Motorcycle history reports on previous owners and accidents provide helpful information for prospective buyers. It helps you make an informed decision about their purchase. They may also contain details about salvage titles, which are essential to consider before buying.

 

Maintenance History

While you’re at it, ask about the motorbike maintenance history. Remember, some motorcycles require more intensive care than others.

Maintenance history can show attempts to be economical, which may not work with your riding style. It’s important to consider how much its maintenance will cost in the future.

Also, consider potential problems arising from neglect or lack of routine maintenance by previous owners.

 

Take a Test Ride

Motorcycles should be taken out for a thorough test drive before making your final purchase decision. When test driving, pay close attention to things that may seem out of place or different from other motorcycles you have driven in the past.

While driving, keep your eyes off the road and observe whether or not any visible rust is present. Finally, check all steering and suspension system parts by applying pressure. Don’t forget about shocks or dampeners along the way.

 

Safety During the Sale Process

Buying a used motorcycle can be an exciting time for you. Yet, you must remember that at any moment, there could be potential for fraud. It’s vital to work with someone who has experience selling motorbikes. They know what to look for when it comes to scams relating to purchasing a motorcycle.

Don’t make a quick decision under pressure or extreme circumstances. If you feel uncomfortable about someone or are unsure about the details of a particular purchase, walk away and don’t feel bad.

However, if you buy the bike and later find out something was faked, you can file a dispute through your bank. Though it’s a long shot, you may get your money back.

 

Should You Buy from Dealer or Private Seller?

You may be wondering which one is better: buying from a dealer or a private seller. It’s definitely a personal preference, yet there are benefits and drawbacks to both sides of the coin.

Trusted dealers offer warranties and other services not available from private sales. The con would be if you aren’t sure about your purchase and need to return it later. It may be tricky to convince either party that the bike isn’t right for you because it should be an informed purchase.

But as long as you do your homework and know what to look for, buying a used motorcycle can be an exciting experience.

If you decide to purchase a used motorbike from a private seller, you can negotiate prices without dealer fees. The disadvantages will occur if problems with the bike arise down the road. It might be difficult or impossible getting a refund or even get a fair value for the bike in that situation.

Also, consider that private sales often have no warranties attached. If anything goes wrong during your limited time of ownership, repairs may not be covered by warranty. Therefore, it’s all about being an informed consumer and doing your research before making purchases.

 

Things to Look for When Checking Out the Bike

Inspecting a used motorcycle from top to bottom is highly recommended. But which parts should you focus on more?

 

The VIN Number 

This is a unique identification number found on all vehicles that may have been altered from their original state. Having it checked by a trusted person or via a vehicle history report can help discover potential alterations that could cause problems later.

 

Tires 

Look for uneven wear, dry rot, and discoloration. It’ll help determine whether rotations have been done regularly and if they’re set up properly for the required riding style.

 

The Mirrors  

Check the mirrors for quality and their positioning to ensure there aren’t blind spots when looking back at traffic or scenery. This is especially useful when lane splitting during heavy traffic hours.

 

Locks and Keys 

Make sure they both work and use the kickstand twice to ensure it stays in place. Find out also if the bike has a spare key.

 

Engine and Drive Train 

Listen for unnatural noises, leaks, or smells when you’re riding along to make sure everything is running smoothly after a test ride. Shifting should be smooth without grinding or harshness.

Look closely at all major components of the bike. This includes brakes, tires, sprocket, suspension system, wiring connections, gas tank area, lights, and exhaust system, besides any fluid leaks.

Don’t hesitate to ask the owner if you can take a test drive to focus on how well each of these components works.

 

Red Flags When Buying Used Motorcycle

If you’re planning to buy a used motorcycle, you must be wary of red flags. You don’t have to wait until you’re scammed to realize that you ignored the signs. Common behaviours that you’ll experience in used motorcycle sellers scams include:

 

Runs Poorly 

This could indicate low compression in one or more cylinders which can become expensive to repair. Besides, the bike might not run right for an extended period unless corrected soon due to engine damage.

 

No Title 

Unless you’ve checked the VIN and know for sure that there isn’t one or any damage to it that would prevent transferring ownership, find out what’s missing from it. Try to identify numbers on the frame and engine parts removed during an accident before issuing the salvage title.

 

Barely Driven 

Be wary of purchasing a motorcycle if the mileage is extremely low unless you buy a collector’s item. These machines can be ridden at minimal or economical speeds for thousands of miles without having problems, even after several decades.

 

Flaking Paint 

This might indicate previous body damage which has been painted over. Watch out for rust spots that have been filled but not sanded down and primed before being sprayed with a new colour. You can identify this in areas around bolts or under the gas tank where hot exhaust pipes can cause issues during future repairs.

 

Lowball Offers 

Suppose a low price is offered without explaining why; this could be a sign of possible theft, accident damage, or other significant problems. Even if it looks okay on the surface, find out what’s wrong with it instead of accepting whatever offer you’re given. You might end up paying the full cost of repairs later.

 

Where to Get a Used Motorcycle Near Me

Are you a motorbike enthusiast looking for a stylish and efficient used motorbike? At Westshore Marine & Leisure, we have a long inventory of new and used motorcycles that’ll not only fit your budget but meet your style.

Whether you’re struggling to finance the bike or are looking for a used motorcycle buying guide, we’ve got you covered. Get in touch with us today to learn about our great financing deals and purchase your preferred motorcycle.