7 Things to Inspect Before Buying a Used Motorcycle
The bike of your dreams is just a click away, but before you commit to a purchase, you’ve got to make sure the motorcycle is in its best condition so you can remain safe on the road. When considering listings on the marketplace, know how to spot the biggest red flags when buying a bike online and which items to closely examine on the motorcycle before you buy. To help you out, Cycle Trader is partnering with the Motorcycle Safety Foundation to share seven things to inspect before buying a motorcycle.
Pre-Purchase Inspection
If you can see the motorcycle in-person, perform a pre-purchase inspection of each of the bike’s major components and systems to make sure you’re getting the best value with your new ride. Look for signs of a crash or damage from lack of maintenance. See if you can spot any dents, chips, bent parts, or faded paint on the frame, forks, footrests, handlebars, fuel tank, fenders, or fairings. Along with keeping an eye on the top things to consider before buying a used bike and performing an up-close inspection, take a test ride and ask the seller plenty of questions so you have detailed answers about the bike’s history. Here’s a rundown of big items to check out when doing your inspection.
1. Engine
The condition of the motorcycle engine can make or break a sale. First, inspect its overall condition and look for any signs of damage, corrosion, or rust. See that the engine is clean and not covered in a layer of oil or grease. Start the engine and listen for rattles and rough idling. See how it responds to throttle input. Allow it to warm up while you inspect the rest of the bike.
2. Tire Wear and Age
Next, inspect the tires and wheels to see if they’re aged or have any punctures or cracks. Look for broken or warped spokes, worn-down or loose bearings, and make sure the tread depth is adequate for each tire. Ensure the tires have the correct pressure level for safe riding.
3. Brake Discs
Ensure the brakes are secure, with no leaks from the hydraulic fluid reservoir or hoses. Look at the wear indicator on the bike’s brake pads, seeing that they’re not worn past the limit line. Then, check the brake discs for any warpage or gouges, and inspect for thickness.
4. Handlebars and Footrests
The handlebars should move smoothly side-to-side. The underside of the footrests might have some scraping from cornering, but look for signs of serious damage from crashes or tipovers.
5. Controls and Connections
The battery terminals should be clean and free of corrosion. Headlights and brake lights should be responsive to switches, levers, and pedals, and fully illuminated. Check for scraped or bent turn signals and any loose bulbs in the lights. Mirrors should be intact and straight.
6. Fluids
Check the oil level, brake fluid in the front and rear reservoirs, and the coolant to make sure they’re full and clean. Look at the markers to ensure they’re at adequate levels.
7. Motorcycle Chain
Make yourself familiar with how to adjust a motorcycle chain, so you know what to look for during an inspection. Make sure it’s not dry, rusty, or worn out, looking for worn, pointed teeth on the sprocket. Then, ensure it has the correct slack and is adequately lubricated.
Test Ride the Motorcycle
A visual inspection is only half the story when it comes to getting a better feel for the bike. Do a test ride to see how it performs on the road and figure out if there’s a problem. Here’s an overview of what you should look out for during a pre-purchase test ride:
- See how the engine runs, including if it’s difficult to start, or if it stalls, hesitates, or backfires. When you release the throttle, see if the engine quickly returns to idle.
- When you’re riding, listen for unusual noises or rattling. If it’s a four-stroke motorcycle, keep an eye out for smoky exhaust.
- When riding, see if the clutch slips or drags. If so, this may need to be serviced by a mechanic.
- Ensure the transmission and gearshift lever operate smoothly.
- Pay attention if the brakes slip or grab. While you may hear the brakes squeal, it doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a mechanical problem.
- If the bike pulls to one side as you ride, the wheels may be misaligned or the frame might be bent.
- After you ride, see if there are any external oil or coolant leaks. Remember to check the underside of the engine, too.
Start with this list for inspecting motorcycles for your safety when you ride and know exactly what you’re getting before you buy. Then, see how the motorcycle runs to try and detect any other problems and determine if it’s the right fit for you before you commit to a purchase.
If you will not be inspecting the bike before purchase due to the location of the seller, try to have a phone conversation with the seller to fully assess the bike’s current condition and get as many details as possible about the bike’s history and the level of care the seller has used to maintain it. Ask for copies of service receipts and photos of any specific areas of interest on the bike.
When you’re ready, check out all the new and used bikes and motorcycle trailers for sale on the nation’s leading marketplace at CycleTrader.com. Are you looking for more information on buying and selling? Check out more on Cycle Trader’s Blog!
Motorcycle Safety Foundation
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) is a national, not-for-profit organization promoting the safety of motorcyclists with programs in rider training, operator licensing and public information. Visit msf-usa.org.
Ryan Miller
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