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What to Look for When Buying A Used Motorcycle

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you're ready to splurge on a motorcycle, but you don't want to spend too much money. So a used motorcycle is your best option. But do you know how to ask the right questions? Do you know the factors you need to consider? If you can have the right information going into your purchase, you won't have to worry about regretting your decision. Here's what to look for when you want to buy a used motorcycle:

Decide Whether You Want to Buy from a Dealer Or an Individual.

Both buying from an individual and shopping at a dealership have their advantages. Dealers have more choices in their inventory, and they often have the backing of the company that makes and builds the motorcycles. Dealers may offer warranties as well. If you consider buying from an individual, you might get a better deal. You can bargain with one person rather than a staff of paid salespeople. While dealers may have more to offer, don't discount what an individual seller may have for sale. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide if you trust your seller, whether you're visiting an individual or a dealer.

Make Sure you're Financially Ready.

Buying a motorcycle can be an expensive purchase, so you need to make sure you're prepared. Compare the seller's offering price with the fair market value of similar bikes. If you need to secure financing, it's best to plan ahead, especially if you wind up opting for a more expensive motorcycle than you initially planned. Take into account additional costs like sales tax and registration, and set aside a little extra for any maintenance costs that may occur shortly after you've purchased the motorcycle. You should also bear in mind that if you've financed your bike, you'll probably have to keep full coverage insurance for the duration of the loan.

Inspect the Motorcycle - Then Inspect It Again.

Read the ad or website entry on the motorcycle you're interested in carefully. When you arrive at the dealership or individual's home, you need to inspect the motorcycle. If you're not mechanically inclined, bring a friend with you who is, or take along a more experienced motorcycle rider. Ask the seller to not crank it before you arrive, because you'll want to see how difficult it is to start the motorcycle. Take a look at the tires, cables, fork, and suspension. Look for wear and tear on the frame, and make sure the chain is properly greased. Then take a second look at everything to make sure that you're purchasing a quality product.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask Difficult Questions.

When you arrive at the seller, you need to summon up all your courage to be able to ask the tough questions. Ask how many different people have owned the motorcycle. Find out if the bike has been in any accidents. Ask about any mechanical problems the previous owners have had. Request any service records and paperwork that come with the motorcycle. Discuss any issues the previous owners had with it and how the owners dealt with those problems. If you're willing to ask the difficult questions, you may be able to get more information that you couldn't have acquired otherwise.

Stand Your Ground When Sales Tactics Get Tough.

You definitely want to be respectful when you arrive to speak to the seller. You don't want to play games, but you also don't want to let the seller play games with you. Be prepared to stand your ground when sales tactics get tough. Don't fall for a smooth talking salesperson. Don't allow negotiations to become one-sided. If you feel pressured, take a timeout, and be ready to walk away if you feel uncomfortable at all. As the buyer, you are in control and have the power, and you should never allow a pushy or dishonest seller to talk you into a bad decision.

Current Motorcycle Manufacturers