10 Handy Tips for Buying a Used Motorcycle
Owning a two-wheeler is a goal for many, and for a good reason: two-wheelers are incredibly convenient to navigate across congested lanes. Additionally, they can be easily parked in narrow spaces. Today, many aspiring to own two-wheelers are opting for affordable yet stylish second-hand motorbikes. The global used-bike market size is projected to reach $66.2 million by 2031. Here are some tips that can help one get the best deals on second-hand motorcycles:
Consider personal requirements
The type of motorcycle one should opt for depends largely on why they need it and the kind of terrain it will traverse. For example, those looking to ride their motorcycles within city limits should consider basic road bikes.
In contrast, mountain bikes are ideal for off-roading and riding on rugged terrains. If one is looking for a two-wheeler that serves both purposes—local commute and off-roading adventure, hybrid bikes are the best picks. So, the first step for buying a used motorcycle is to consider key requirements and choose the model that meets most needs. Additionally, one should set a budget before reaching out to sellers. A used motorcycle costs anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the mileage and overall condition of the vehicle.
Check the vehicle identification number
Checking the vehicle identification number (VIN) is essential while buying used motorcycles, as it helps ensure that the numbers have not been modified or re-stamped.
Check the vehicle identification number
Checking the vehicle identification number (VIN) is essential while buying used motorcycles, as it helps ensure that the numbers have not been modified or re-stamped.
One should also check the theft rates of the brand one is considering and, if possible, compare the VINs of first-hand motorbikes of the same brand and that of the used bike in question.
Examine all components
Motorcycle owners may often sell their used vehicles due to certain hidden defects. So, after shortlisting used motorcycles nearby, it is important to examine all parts of the vehicle one is considering, including the levers, footpegs, exhaust pipe, suspension, bar ends, and tire. One should also check for the accumulation of dust between the chain and the sprocket.
Look up the vehicle’s history online
Today, several verified websites allow one to enter a VIN and look up the vehicle’s history. Many of these sites provide detailed reports and information regarding the motorcycle’s previous owner(s), history of theft or other illegal activities, and other essential details. So, while looking for a used motorcycle for sale, one should not miss this key step of looking up its history on one of these websites.
Consider bank-repossessed motorcycles
Bank-repossessed motorcycles are those that a bank or leasing company confiscates from borrowers who are unable to repay their vehicle loans. The cost of such used motorcycles is significantly lower than their market rates. Moreover, these vehicles are typically of superior quality, so buying repossessed two-wheelers can help one strike the perfect balance between cost and quality. Banks often conduct auctions to sell repossessed vehicles. So, one should keep an eye out for such auctions and bid for repossessed motorcycles.
Inspect cold motorcycles
It is relatively easier to hide the defects of a vehicle when it has just been used. So, before examining a used bike in person, one should ask the seller to let the bike cool down completely and not run it right before the visit. This helps buyers identify any problems with starting the vehicle. For example, if the engine does not start immediately or produces strange sounds in the beginning, it may be a sign of a defect.
Discuss the reasons for selling
Sellers may often want to dispose of their old motorbikes because of some defect or snag. So, it is important to ask sellers why they are putting up used motorcycles for sale. It is advisable to have such conversations face-to-face, as one can gauge the seller’s body language and non-verbal cues to determine if they are being genuine.
Examine the vehicle in broad daylight
As mentioned earlier, it is important to inspect every part of a used motorcycle carefully before buying it. Inspecting the vehicle in broad daylight allows for a close and careful examination. However, in case of insufficient sunlight, one should carry a torch to check the components.
Go through the paperwork carefully
It is essential to check the vehicle’s papers thoroughly before buying it. One should verify details such as the engine number, address, and model information. For example, the address mentioned on the document should match the owner’s current address. If not, one should address such discrepancies immediately. Moreover, the vehicle’s model should be the same as that mentioned in the papers.
Ask about specific issues or flaws
It is possible to overlook certain defects even after examining the vehicle thoroughly. So, one should also ask the owner or seller about specific flaws in the used motorcycle, such as instances of oil leakage, rust, or corrosion. Such information can help one calculate possible repair and maintenance costs of the vehicle and make a decision accordingly.
Examine all components
Motorcycle owners may often sell their used vehicles due to certain hidden defects. So, after shortlisting used motorcycles nearby, it is important to examine all parts of the vehicle one is considering, including the levers, footpegs, exhaust pipe, suspension, bar ends, and tire. One should also check for the accumulation of dust between the chain and the sprocket.
Look up the vehicle’s history online
Today, several verified websites allow one to enter a VIN and look up the vehicle’s history. Many of these sites provide detailed reports and information regarding the motorcycle’s previous owner(s), history of theft or other illegal activities, and other essential details. So, while looking for a used motorcycle for sale, one should not miss this key step of looking up its history on one of these websites.
Consider bank-repossessed motorcycles
Bank-repossessed motorcycles are those that a bank or leasing company confiscates from borrowers who are unable to repay their vehicle loans. The cost of such used motorcycles is significantly lower than their market rates. Moreover, these vehicles are typically of superior quality, so buying repossessed two-wheelers can help one strike the perfect balance between cost and quality. Banks often conduct auctions to sell repossessed vehicles. So, one should keep an eye out for such auctions and bid for repossessed motorcycles.
Inspect cold motorcycles
It is relatively easier to hide the defects of a vehicle when it has just been used. So, before examining a used bike in person, one should ask the seller to let the bike cool down completely and not run it right before the visit. This helps buyers identify any problems with starting the vehicle. For example, if the engine does not start immediately or produces strange sounds in the beginning, it may be a sign of a defect.
Discuss the reasons for selling
Sellers may often want to dispose of their old motorbikes because of some defect or snag. So, it is important to ask sellers why they are putting up used motorcycles for sale. It is advisable to have such conversations face-to-face, as one can gauge the seller’s body language and non-verbal cues to determine if they are being genuine.
Examine the vehicle in broad daylight
As mentioned earlier, it is important to inspect every part of a used motorcycle carefully before buying it. Inspecting the vehicle in broad daylight allows for a close and careful examination. However, in case of insufficient sunlight, one should carry a torch to check the components.
Go through the paperwork carefully
It is essential to check the vehicle’s papers thoroughly before buying it. One should verify details such as the engine number, address, and model information. For example, the address mentioned on the document should match the owner’s current address. If not, one should address such discrepancies immediately. Moreover, the vehicle’s model should be the same as that mentioned in the papers.
Ask about specific issues or flaws
It is possible to overlook certain defects even after examining the vehicle thoroughly. So, one should also ask the owner or seller about specific flaws in the used motorcycle, such as instances of oil leakage, rust, or corrosion. Such information can help one calculate possible repair and maintenance costs of the vehicle and make a decision accordingly.
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