If you've been itching to get out on the road on a motorcycle but you don't have the money to buy new, a used option can be your best friend. Learn what to look for in used motorcycles for sale so you can end up with a great ride you will love to go on adventures with.
Starting
A motorcycle should start easily after being cold. This means it should start without much effort after not being run for a while. If you are shopping for a used bike being sold by an owner, ask that they not have the motorcycle warmed up when you get there. You want to do a cold start to make sure it revs up appropriately. At a dealership, they should let you start any bike they have for sale so you can assess how well the motor runs.
Crash damage
Inspect any used bike for signs of a crash. These signs include:
- paint scraping
- bent handlebars
- uneven mirrors
- tilted windscreen
- scratched or loose fasteners
While these signs don't necessarily mean the previous owner took a serious digger, it can mean that they have tipped the bike a few times. It can also be a sign that the previous owner wasn't careful with their motorcycle, which can indicate other, more expensive damage in the engine. While you don't have to pass a crashed motorcycle by, any bike you're interested in that shows this kind of wear should be professionally inspected by a mechanic before you purchase it.
Warranty
A used motorcycle that comes with a warranty gives you greater peace of mind in the event something goes wrong. You can choose a dealership that has an in-house mechanic that will inspect your ride for mechanical failures for the first few months of ownership, or opt for a warranty of several months or miles put on the bike. When you choose a dealership that includes a warranty on the bike you buy, you can feel better about your purchase as you get to know just how a motorcycle will work out for you.
Buying a used motorcycle is a great way to get out on the road without spending a lot of money. As you shop for used rides, make sure you know how well they start and if they have ever been crashed before. An inspection can help determine if the bike you want is a great buy, and a dealership can give you peace of mind with a great warranty. If you shop wisely, you can find the perfect motorcycle for your needs.
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