The used motorcycle market is a great place to buy a perfectly acceptable bike and perhaps even find a bargain, if the consumer knows what to look for and how to evaluate the worth of a used vehicle. A used motorcycle for sale can be 2 years old or 20 years old but if it’s in good shape and the owner can provide service details, then age is really not a factor. The condition of the vehicle is the most important thing to consider when buying a used motorcycle.

Buying a used motorcycle is the cheapest way to get into motorcycling. However, it is also rife with scams and pitfalls for those who aren’t careful. The following article will explain some of the basics of how to buy a used motorcycle or scooter from a dealer, classified ad, or individual seller.

Buying a Used Bike Requires Careful Inspection

How hard was the motorcycle ridden? How well was the bike maintained? Do service records exist? Was the bike abused in racing conditions or damaged due to accidents? These fundamental questions must be addressed before a decision can be made about the relative value of the bike for sale.

There are lots of motorcycles for sale via newspaper ads, websites (e.g. Craig’s List) and of course, motorcycle dealerships. Consumers must do their homework and review various years, makes and models, in concert with market prices for various types of bikes.

It’s a good idea to wear work clothes, be prepared to get down and dirty. Bring a flashlight and a magnifying glass to examine the underside of the bike, looking for leaks, cracks or other damage. Bring a friend with some motorcycling experience along too and discuss the following inspection list before you meet the current owner:

• Check the bike for visible damage to the fuel tank, fenders, mirrors, grips, levers, suspension, fork seals, cables, engine covers, wiring, tires, brakes, exhaust, etc.
• Check for modifications that suggest the bike has been raced: aftermarket tires, accessories, decals and markings on the exhaust, foot pegs associated with deep-cornering and fast deceleration.
• Check the frame for cracks and repairs (new welds) in critical joints including the steering stock.
• Roll the bike back and forth to check the brakes for operation (e.g. drums and discs, pads can stick due to warping caused by heat or impact) and possible leakage.
• Check the tires for wear, cracks and ask about their age. Old tires may look good, have lots of tread left but the rubber compound tends to break down after 3-4 years.
• Check the wheels for damage; make sure they spin true when you rotate them on the center-stand. Ask the owner about rim leaks or additional problems.
• Check all the electrical components (e.g. turn signals, headlamp’s high- and low-beam strength, emergency flashers, brake lights, etc.) including battery, fuse box and wiring harnesses.
• Check the chains and sprockets for excessive wear. Ask for service records, if the bike operates a shaft or belt drive.
• Start-up the bike and inspect the exhaust for excessive noise; check the brakes and clutch, cooling and fuel systems for leaks. Take the bike for a ride, if possible.

Get the Motorcycle Inspected by a Mechanic

Most sellers will provide service records, an owner’s manual and tool kit but it’s important to ask for these items or they may not be part of the deal. Again, if possible, take the bike for a short ride and test the acceleration, handling, weight, brakes, etc.

If the price sounds reasonable, it’s often a good idea to get the machine checked-out by a professional mechanic for $50-100. Often the seller will agree to split the inspection cost with the prospective owner.

How Much Should a Used Bike Cost?

There are several online services that provide “used motorcycle buying guides” which will tell you how much a specific bike should cost, the condition of various motorcycles, reliability ratings of various makes/models, and even what brands are good buys for beginners and experienced riders.

Before you buy a used motorcycle, it is important to conduct some research. Check out online forums designed for the motorcycle enthusiast to find out opinions and clues on how the bike has been treated and maintained. You can also ask friends who own motorcycles or scooters for opinion or advice on specific brands/models/places. They may even offer to drive with you so that you can see how your new bike rides before you purchase it.

Another place to check out is local dealership service departments where they might be able to tell whether or not the bike is worth the asking price (especially if a dealer will buy back bikes from customers). Many motorcycle enthusiasts also belong to local riding clubs where they can find plenty of information about different makes/models.

Once you have decided on a bike, it’s time to start shopping around for the best price.

Don’t Make an Offer Until the Bike is Properly Appraised

The best way to determine the worth of a used bike is to review comparable bikes for sale. Check newspaper and magazine ads, check online and call local dealerships to get a variety of opinions. It’s imperative that consumers do the necessary homework and familiarize themselves with the particular year, make and model, if possible.

The more information obtained before a bike is viewed in person, the greater the advantage is afforded the buyer. Buying a used motorcycle can present a great opportunity but unscrupulous sellers will take advantage of uninformed buyers.

Buyers beware – and be prepared!